International Society for Equitation Science

In this episode, we explore new research on using facial expressions and artificial intelligence to identify emotional states in horses, moving beyond pain detection to include states like anticipation, frustration, and disappointment with Dr Claire Ricci-Bonot.With models reaching around 76% accuracy, the findings highlight both the potential and the limitations of using technology to assess equine emotion and welfare.Dr Claire Ricci-Bonot is an academic researcher specialising in animal behaviour, cognition, and welfare, with a primary focus on horses at the University of Lincoln. Her work explores equine emotions, social relationships, and stress, including topics such as social buffering, separation issues, and the use of AI to identify emotional states in horses.You can read this paper here: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0302893

In this episode, Dr. Barbara Murphy discusses equine chronobiology and the role of light in regulating the horse’s circadian rhythms and biological clock. We explore how light exposure influences sleep, behaviour, reproduction, and overall horse welfare, and how modern horse management can disrupt natural light cycles.Barbara also explains how research into photoperiod and circadian biology has led to practical applications in equine management and breeding, including the development of lighting technologies used within the global horse industry.This conversation highlights why understanding the relationship between light, physiology, and behaviour is important for improving horse welfare and evidence-based management.Dr. Barbara Anne Murphy is Programme Director of the BAgrSc Animal Science – Equine programme and Head of Equine Science at University College Dublin. Her research focuses on equine chronobiology and how light regulates biological rhythms that influence horse health, reproduction, and performance. Her work led to the development of the award-winning Equilume Light Mask, and she also serves as Chief Scientific Officer at Equilume Ltd.Read the paper here: https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0326567

In this episode, Professor Christine Aurich discusses her review paper on the welfare of breeding stallions, exploring how social and emotional needs can be balanced alongside reproductive performance. The conversation challenges traditional management practices (particularly routine isolation) and examines how limited social contact can impact behaviour, health, and long-term wellbeing.We discuss the importance of early socialisation, life-stage development, group dynamics, and practical housing solutions such as bachelor systems and social contact through adjacent turnout. The episode also covers semen collection training, highlighting how calm, choice-based handling and consistent routines can improve both welfare and breeding outcomes.Overall, the discussion reinforces that reproductive success does not automatically equal good welfare and that with informed, evidence-based management, stallions can thrive both behaviourally and reproductively.Based on: Górecka-Bruzda, A., & Aurich, C. (2025). Importance of the social environment for reproductive and general welfare of domestic horse (Equus caballus) stallions. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 292, 106827. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2025.106827

In this episode, we explore how simple sensory checks (sight, touch, and smell) can help predict when hay may pose a respiratory risk for horses. We discuss how abnormal odour emerged as a strong indicator of harmful dust levels, how visible impurities relate to microbial contamination, and what this means for practical, low-cost screening tools in everyday stable management.In this episode, we are joined by Dr Virginie Bouverat and Professor Vinzenz Gerber discussing their paper titled: Sensory Assessment of Hay Samples: Abnormal Odor Predicts Increased Dust Levels and Impurities Suggest Microbiological ContaminationVirginie is a Swiss equine veterinarian and researcher at ISME, focusing on how forage and bedding quality influence horse respiratory health. Vinzenz is a Swiss equine internal medicine specialist at ISME and the University of Bern, known for his work on equine asthma, genetics, and performance physiology.A link to their paper: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/18/2688

This podcast focused on discussing research findings about the behaviour of off-the-track thoroughbreds, with Annie and Kate sharing insights from their study using the E-BARQ behavioural assessment tool. The discussion highlighted how racing experiences may influence a horse's behaviour in second careers, challenging common assumptions about boldness and training responsiveness. Key findings included that off-the-track thoroughbreds showed greater exposure-related boldness but lower compliance to deceleration cues compared to other breeds. The conversation emphasised the importance of understanding each horse's individual history and implementing evidence-based training principles, particularly for 'basic' behaviours. Both speakers agreed that more research is needed to better support off-the-track horses and their new owners, with Kate suggesting that future studies could benefit from longitudinal tracking of the same horses over time.Read the paper here: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/15/14/2046

Join host Chloe Campbell as she sits down with Alessia to chat about student life, navigating different academic paths, and finding your way into equine welfare and behavioural science. From early riding lessons to research on the Five Domains and rider laterality, Alessia shares honest insights, challenges, and what she’s learned along the way.A great listen for students, early-career researchers, and anyone passionate about evidence-based equine welfare.

Prof. Inga Wolframm discusses new research, with host Chloe Campbell, on how horses interact with natural landscapes and what this means for welfare and biodiversity. The study tracked Swedish Warmblood mares using HoofStep® sensors, revealing how weather, environment, and individual preferences shape behaviour.

Join Chloe Campbell speaking with Dr Gabriel Lencioni on Identifying the Starting Point for Using Computer Vision Methods Accurately to Enhance Standards in Equine Sports.We discuss groundbreaking research on using AI and computer vision to analyse horse movements in dressage, with the goal of enhancing welfare standards in equestrian sport. From tracking subtle body signals to training algorithms, this work highlights how technology could transform the way we understand and safeguard equine welfare in competition.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Dr Ellen Rankins about her research into how weight limits are applied in equine-assisted services across the U.S, presented at the ISES Conference 2025 We discuss survey findings on current practices — including the common use of the 20% bodyweight guideline — and the need for further research to establish evidence-based standards that best support equine welfare in these settings.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Dr Sarah King about how findings from wild equid research can inform management, training, and welfare practices for domestic horses and donkeys, presented at the ISES Conference 2025 We explore what studying free-ranging behaviour, social structures, and environmental adaptation can teach us about improving the lives of domestic equids in human care.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Professor Jörg Aurich about his research on the effects of starting horses at a young age, comparing behavioural responses in Warmbloods and Thoroughbreds, presented at the ISES Conference 2025.We discuss how training onset and breed differences influence learning, stress responses, and long-term welfare — and what this means for evidence-based approaches to starting horses under saddle.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Joann Benjamin and Ruth Dismuke-Blakely about the Hippotherapy Conceptual Framework (HCF), developed by the American Hippotherapy Association and presented at the ISES Conference 2025.We discuss how this framework integrates equine movement, neurophysiology, and therapy sciences to support occupational, physical, and speech-language therapy, and how the 2024 update strengthens the evidence base for hippotherapy practice and research.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Dr Sophie Côté at the ISES Conference 2025 about her research on Equine Memory Rewriting (EMR©), a neuroscience-based method that aims to resolve lack of impulsion in horses without conditioning or pressure.We explore how memory reconsolidation techniques may offer new ways to improve equine welfare and performance, with case studies showing long-term results.At ISES, we remain open to exploring new ideas and innovative approaches that spark discussion and encourage progress in equitation science.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Professor Inga Wolframm at the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) Conference 2025 about her research into how dressage judges use visual search strategies when assessing riders. Using advanced eye tracking technology, her work explores how judges focus, process information, and make decisions in real time.We discuss what this means for judging accuracy, fairness in equestrian sport, and how eye tracking research can inform judge training and rider feedback.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Caleigh Copelin at the ISES Conference 2025 about her research on horse rider level, heart rate variability, and under-saddle behaviour in lesson horses.

Chloe Campbell speaks with Aveil Oberhammer at the ISES Conference 2025 about her research using EquiFACS — the Equine Facial Action Coding System — to identify subtle changes in horse behaviour before and after riding.We discuss how EquiFACS can help riders, trainers, and researchers better understand equine emotional states, improve welfare, and refine training approaches.

Rick Hester from Cheyenne Mountain Zoo presents the Clever Hans Lecture from the ISES Colorado Conference. He explores how zoo environments can be designed to encourage not just activity, but meaningful outcomes for animals. While he occasionally refers to slides, the talk works well in audio — and the full video is available on our YouTube channel.

In this special conference edition, we bring you conversations with three leading voices in equitation science and animal welfare. Prof Paul McGreevy, Dr Gemma Pearson, and Dr Temple Grandin share their perspectives from the 2025 International Conference in Colorado, reflecting on key themes in horse–human interaction, training practices, welfare, and the future of equestrian sport.

In this episode, we’re joined by renowned veterinary behaviourist Dr. Katherine Houpt, with host Chloe Campbell, to explore the complex relationship between diet and behaviour in horses. Drawing on her chapter from Equine Welfare in Clinical Practice, Dr. Houpt discusses the role of the microbiome, the importance of natural foraging behaviour, and findings from both observational and intervention studies.We cover how different feeding practices can influence behaviour — including the development and management of stereotypies — and how aligning diet with a horse’s natural needs can support better welfare and emotional balance.Whether you're a practitioner, student, or simply passionate about equine welfare, this episode offers valuable insight into one of the most overlooked areas in horse management.

In this episode, Chloe Campbell, ISES Media Manager, sits down with Dr. Miriam Baumgartner to explore how affiliative behaviours can serve as valid, reliable, and feasible indicators of positive welfare in horse husbandry. What behaviours truly signal contentment in horses? How can we use them to improve management and training practices? Join us as we delve into the latest research and discuss practical applications for ensuring the well-being of equines in various settings. Tune in for expert insights and evidence-based approaches to better understanding horse welfare!

Join host Chloe Campbell, ISES Media Manager, as she chats with the members of ISES for the exciting launch of the ISES Webinar featuring Dr. Andrew McLean. In this video, we dive into the fascinating world of equitation science, exploring the latest research, insights, and practical applications in the training and care of horses. More information: www.equitationscience.com/webinars Become a member for discounts and free exclusive access: www.equitationscience.com/membership

In this episode, Dr. Carol Hall discusses her PhD research with Dr. Rachel Kay on horse welfare, focusing on how horse-human interactions affect quality of life. She shares findings from her systematic review, which explores pain recognition, emotional reactivity, and handling, highlighting the importance of fulfilling horses' physical and social needs. Dr. Hall emphasises how positive interactions with humans can improve welfare, offering valuable insights into enhancing the lives of horses in sport and leisure activities.

In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Ella Bartlett, Dr Jo Hockenhull, Lorna Cameron about Ella's very large PhD research "Exploring the relationship between horse-owner attributes and their approach to horse training". Dr Emily Blackwell was also part of this research. This research focuses on gathering valuable insights from horse owners about their approach to horse training. In this episode, the researchers will delve into the various factors that may influence a person's training decisions, offering you a deeper understanding of what may be shaping their methods and strategies. From age and personal beliefs to training goals and experience, we'll explore how these elements come together to possibly influence the way horse owners train and interact with their horses.

Leonie Lee is an individual deeply committed to enhancing equine welfare through innovative design. With a wealth of experience in both the equine and architecture sectors, Leonie founded Equined with the vision of optimizing the lives of horses through thoughtful planning and construction. Her dedication to this cause is exemplified by her work on the development of "Markdel" Rye for Freedman Brothers Racing. Despite traditional facility design practices in the racing industry, Leonie prioritized equine welfare, creating a seventy-horse Thoroughbred complex that served as a model for others. The carefully designed courtyard environment at Markdel led to thriving horses, a testament to Leonie's passion for creating spaces where equines can flourish. Through Equined, Leonie continues to champion the idea that a good life for horses begins with thoughtful design, ensuring that equine welfare remains at the forefront of architectural considerations.

Dr. Gabriel Lencioni is a veterinarian and PhD student in Animal Welfare at the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science (FMVZ) of the University of São Paulo (USP). His passion for the study of animal behavior and welfare ignited during his college years, prompting him to actively engage in organizing seminars, symposiums, courses, and other educational activities on the topic. Under the guidance of Professor Adroaldo José Zanella, Gabriel had the privilege to develop scientific projects and interact with esteemed professionals in the field. His research focuses on various aspects of animal welfare, with a particular emphasis on pain assessment in horses using artificial intelligence, learning theory, ethical training for solving unwanted behaviors, and fear-free methodologies for veterinary interventions. In 2020, Gabriel initiated a scientific dissemination project aimed at providing easy access to reliable and validated information on the behavior and welfare of dogs and horses. Through his Instagram account (@vet.gabriel.lencioni), he shares valuable insights and resources, aspiring to enhance the quality of life for these animals and those around them.

Annie completed a Bachelor of Veterinary Science at The University of Queensland in 2004. Her special interest in animal welfare drew her from a career in private practice to roles with the RSPCA and Principal Racing Authorities in Victoria, Tasmania and New South Wales. Annie is a strong advocate for intergroup perspective-taking and social learning, believing it critical to constructive progress in animal welfare. In 2017, Annie pioneered an off-the-track program for the Tasmanian racing industry that prioritised integrated horse-human education and accessible hands-on support. So that she might make a more evidence-based contribution to equine welfare, Annie returned to the University of Queensland in 2020 to undertake a Master of Animal Science. Her research focus is behavioural characteristics of off-the-track racehorses. Annie applied for a 2023 Churchill Fellowship to study innovative strategies that are increasing opportunities for off-the-track racehorses in the UK and USA, and to gather data that will enable further research into retraining and rehoming outcomes.In 2017, Annie pioneered an off-the-track program for the Tasmanian racing industry that prioritised integrated horse-human education and accessible hands-on support. So that she might make a more evidence-based contribution to equine welfare, Annie returned to the University of Queensland in 2020 to earn a Master of Animal Science. Her research focus was behavioural characteristics of off-the-track racehorses. Annie has been awarded a 2023 Churchill Fellowship to study innovative strategies that are increasing opportunities for off-the-track racehorses in the UK and USA, and to gather data that will enable further research into retraining and rehoming outcomes.

Lindsay has worked in several countries since obtaining her undergraduate in animal behaviour and welfare and PhD in primate welfare nearly 20 years ago. Her longest employment was as an academic staff member running an animal management programme for 12 years but a year ago, she changed roles to take on the challenging task of being an Animal Welfare Officer at Charles Sturt University in NSW Australia. She is an ex-horse rider who after not owning a horse for about 7 years, has found them to sneak back into her life as she is now involved in maintaining the welfare of the horses at the university. It was fitting that she presented in the CANZ sponsored session as she worked for CANZ back in 2019 developing their accreditation for people working in the field of animal behaviour and training.

Olivia Curry, an EASTBIO Funded PhD Candidate, is investigating behavioral indicators for the assessment of pain in horses. Her research focuses on identifying subtle cues and behaviors that can serve as reliable markers for pain in equines. Through her work, Olivia aims to improve the welfare of horses by enhancing our understanding of how they express discomfort and distress.

Dr. Greene is a Professor and Extension Horse Specialist at the University of Arizona. Her previous statewide extension programs at the University of Vermont have focused on preventative care and maintenance for horse health, safety, equine business, and pasture management. She has been active in the leadership of the eXtension “HorseQuest Community of Practice,” and has secured extramural funding for her research/outreach in pasture management, youth safety, and more.  She collaborated with several state agencies to develop educational materials for equine owners and producers, including the award winning National Horse Safety on the Road Public Service Announcement.  Debbie is a State Coordinator for the Arizona Beef Quality Assurance Program (BQA), coordinates the Arizona Livestock Incident Response Team (ALIRT) and UA Food Safety Consortium (FSC), as well as, manages the School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical Sciences (ACBS) newsletter. Very useful resources available to all: https://extension.arizona.edu/pubs/barn-smarts-biosecurity-tips-keeping-your-horse-safe-healthy https://extension.arizona.edu/pubs/scrub-science-creates-real-understanding-biosecurity

Caleigh Copelin is a PhD student at the University of Guelph, specialising in Equine Behaviour and Welfare. Her research focuses on investigating the impact of management strategies on the stress levels and welfare of riding lesson horses in Canada. This project has garnered support through a Canada Graduate Scholarship from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. With a profound passion for equine welfare, Caleigh is dedicated to conducting research that will contribute to the improvement of horse-keeping practices in Canada. She strongly advocates for the integration of scientific research and comprehensive equine education to foster a better understanding of our relationships with horses and ensure their needs are fully acknowledged.

Ms. Karly Liffen, an equine science graduate, is currently pursuing her Ph.D. focusing on 'The behavior and welfare of horses working in Australian cattle feedlots' with a specialization in animal behavior and welfare both on farm and in the field. Passionate about equine science, Karly's research aims to shed light on the well-being and behavioral patterns of horses in the unique context of cattle feedlots. Her academic journey began with a strong foundation in equine science, providing her with the necessary knowledge and skills to undertake advanced research in the field. Now, as she delves into her Ph.D., Karly is dedicated to uncovering insights that can enhance the lives of working horses and contribute to the improvement of their welfare standards. Through her rigorous study and hands-on experience, Karly is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of animals. Her work exemplifies a dedication to the ethical treatment of animals and a drive to promote their well-being in various agricultural settings.

Natasha Rose’s career and interest in the Thoroughbred aftercare industry was sparked off by a weekend stable job at the Thoroughbred Rehabilitation Centre during her undergraduate university years. Natasha graduated with a BSc and MSC in Equine Science and then went on to do the British Horseracing Authority (BHA) graduate trainee programme. Her career in the British horseracing sector developed from there, and she went on to become the Head of Operations for the Horseracing Betting Levy Board. Currently Natasha is the Executive Manager, Equestrian Affairs Projects for the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC). Her research, titled   “How Does the International Equestrian Community View the Suitability and Versatility of Retired Thoroughbred Racehorses in a Second Career?” formed part of her studies at the University of Liverpool for the Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries MBA.

Miranda Brauns is passionate about leveraging ethology to develop effective strategies for animal care, conservation, and sustainability. Her career goal is to apply behavioral-based approaches to advance animal welfare, particularly focusing on species in the wild and under human care. Miranda finds joy in working with diverse species and exploring topics such as enrichment use, habitat space utilization, and social dynamics. She believes in the power of public outreach to drive meaningful change and aims to inspire others to become advocates for animal welfare. With a background in advanced scientific methods, behavioral research, and zoo policies, Miranda holds a Master of Science in Animal Biology with a specialization in behavior and welfare, along with a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a focus on ecology and conservation. Miranda gained valuable experience at the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, where she developed a deep understanding of zoo operations and Species Survival Plans. Internships at Disney's Animal Kingdom and the Duke Lemur Center further honed her skills in studying animal behavior. Through her work, Miranda is dedicated to promoting the role of zoos in animal sustainability, conservation efforts, and public engagement. She is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of animals and is proud to be part of a community striving to enact meaningful change.

Kylie is a lecturer in equine science at Massey University in the School of Veterinary Science. She has a strong background in engineering as well as 20 years practical experience of working and training horses and people for various sport and recreation industries worldwide. These skills have combined to focus her research interests in equine biomechanics, human and equine exercise physiology and interactions, equine industry epidemiology, health and welfare.

Amber Wells is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Animal Science with a specialization in equine behavior and extension at Oklahoma State University, under the guidance of Dr. Kris Hiney. She earned her bachelor's degree from Auburn University in 2022, majoring in Animal Science with a focus on equine studies and a minor in Business. During her undergraduate years, Amber held various job positions related to equine activities, laying a strong foundation for her career. Following her graduation, she sought to further her passion for extension education by serving as the Purdue Extension-Posey County Summer Intern in her hometown of Mount Vernon, IN, in 2022. At Oklahoma State University, Amber has embraced opportunities to increase her understanding of equine affective states, particularly through her involvement in her current research project, RAiSE (Recognizing Affective State in Equine). Amber strives to promote awareness and facilitate a positive change in the equine community through her commitment to public education on equine welfare.

Meredith Chapman has worked as a Consultant/Advisor in WHS and Vocational Rehabilitation throughout Australia for over 20 years. Meredith’s academic career includes a Masters in Safety Science and post-graduate degrees in Rehabilitation Counselling, Health Sciences and Accident Investigation. Meredith is Currently completing her PhD Meredith in the area of Science, Engineering and Health exploring how ‘WHS as a framework can reduce horse-related human injuries and fatalities. She is an accredited WHS Lead Auditor, SafeWork NSW approved trainer and Royal Lifesaving First Aid Trainer. Meredith has worked with many corporate clients in the Agricultural Industry, Mining , Energy Services, Transport, Equestrian, Health and Disability Services, Better Homes & Gardens (TV), Councils, Government services such as NSW Trade and Investment, SafeWork NSW, Local Lands, NSW Police and Education advising in WHS systems development, training, auditing and project coordination. Meredith also assists PCBUs in meeting their obligations during and following Enforceable Undertaking Proceedings and has been nominated as a WHS Equine Expert Witness. Meredith is a published author in an international peer reviewed journal on the topic of Equine WHS. Meredith has written equine safety articles in a magazine with a distribution of 18,000 members and development ASQA Accredited training courses. In 2005 Meredith development a risk assessment program to successfully match horse and riders with this innovative tool being adopted by the AACO (Australia’s largest Agricultural Beef Breeder) and researched by the MLA (Meat and Livestock Assoc.) for its reliability and validity. In 2014 Meredith was invited to sit on the ASQA review committee for all nationally accredited courses conducted in Australia, in particular equine training. Meredith was invited by Safework NSW in 2016 to assist in the development and co-design of a NSW Code of Practice- ‘Managing Risks when New or Inexperienced Riders or Handlers interact with Horses in the Workplace’ Meredith is also an accomplished horse riding competitor and breeder with over 35 years of experience. She is listed in the Australian Stock Horse ‘Hall of Fame” and is an accredited judge, trainer and inspector.

Welcome to the official Spotify channel of the International Society for Equitation Science New Zealand Conference! Join us as we delve into the captivating world of equine research through our 'Bite-Sized Interviews' series hosted by Chloe Campbell, our dedicated media manager. Explore the latest breakthroughs and discoveries in equitation science as we connect with students and researchers at the forefront of the field. From unraveling the details of current equine science to sharing personal journeys of growth and discovery, each episode offers a unique insight into the relationship between humans and horses. Whether you're a seasoned equestrian enthusiast or simply curious about the science behind horsemanship, our bite-sized interviews promise to inform and inspire.

In this captivating podcast, our panel of equestrian safety experts, including Dr. Jan Ladewig, Jody Hartstone, and Dr. Andrew McLean, engage in a comprehensive discussion on the critical topic of horse and human safety. They explore subjects ranging from separation anxiety in horses and the statistics supporting safety measures to the importance of teaching horses to stand still, a fundamental component in enhancing safety. The experts delve into the identification and management of behaviours that are deemed unsafe, dangerous, or unpredictable in horses. They emphasise the value of incorporating these principles into organisation training syllabus', and highlighting important behaviours that a horse should know to reduce the likelihood of dangerous or unpredictable situations. Additionally, the conversation extends to practical training and safety tips, including methods to avoid flooding, address aggression, and manage overstimulation. The discussion is enriched with real-life examples and stories that underscore common mistakes made by equestrians and the importance of these principles. The panel also touches upon the significance of selecting appropriate tools, equipment, and training environments for maintaining safety during equitation. The podcast wraps up by contemplating the future of safety in equestrianism, touching on the significance of learning theory and dispelling misconceptions, particularly concerning group housing for horses.

Unveiling the ISES 10 Training Principles with our host Antonia Henderson, and speakers Dr. Andrew McLean and Jody Hartstone. Discover how these principles shaped their approach to their interactions with horses and strengthened their careers, to ultimately enhance horse welfare. Unravel the secrets behind addressing behavioural challenges and debunking industry myths. Tune in to uncover the synergy of research and its practical application in horse care and management. From decoding ethology to delving into the basics of nutrition and behaviour, we leave no stone unturned. Learn how behavioural issues emerge and explore the interplay between competition horse welfare and behaviour.

Join ISES on the "Choosing Your Research Subject" podcast, where experts and students delve into the successes and challenges of research, discuss current interests and conversations in the industry, and explore topics such as ethics, university vs private research, and getting research out to the industry. Gain insight into specific scenarios and learn how to enhance your own research through their experiences.