International Society for Equitation Science

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.