STABLE SCIENCE is a must to promote the health, well-being and performance of all horses. Dr David Marlin’s Animalweb offers a straightforward approach to challenges, disrupting and reshaping the outdated equestrian education many of us have grown up with.
Along with a mighty team of experts, David is helping all horse owners, riders and breeders achieve optimal performance for their much-loved horses, horses are living healthier, happier, longer lives by using the latest that science and technology can give us.
AskAnimalweb.com is an independent resource website for all equestrians. A source of unbiased, science-based research, delivering news, product reviews, webinars, podcasts and articles covering the full breadth of the equine world.
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Check latest episodes from Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb podcast
More Than a Riding School: Andrew Stennett on Changing Lives Through Horses
2026/10/10
What if riding schools and equestrian centres are about far more than simply teaching people how to ride?
In this episode of the Animalweb Podcast, Helen Stock is joined by Andrew Stennett, founder of Grove House Stables and I-Pegasus CIC, and British Horse Society Generalist Trustee for Approved Centres, to explore the life-changing role horses can play in education, mental health and community wellbeing.
Andrew reflects on more than 40 years in the equestrian industry, beginning with one horse, one pony and a very muddy field before developing Grove House Stables into an award-winning riding centre.
Drawing on his own experiences of dyslexia, dyspraxia, bullying and feeling misunderstood at school, Andrew explains how horses gave him confidence, direction and somewhere he could thrive.
But his story is about far more than overcoming personal challenges.
Andrew shares how his experiences inspired him to create opportunities for young people who struggle within mainstream education, including those experiencing poor mental health, exclusion and a loss of confidence in the education system.
Through I-Pegasus CIC and programmes such as Changing Lives Through Horses, Andrew has seen first-hand how spending time with horses can help people build resilience, develop practical skills and begin to believe in themselves again.
Helen and Andrew also discuss the mounting pressures facing riding schools, livery yards and equestrian centres. From rising costs and limited access to land to extreme weather, staffing pressures and the challenge of keeping horses and businesses sustainable, many centres are being asked to deliver more while managing increasingly difficult circumstances.
Andrew argues that riding schools should be recognised not only as equestrian businesses but as equine health and wellbeing centres that contribute considerable social and economic value to their local communities.
Throughout the episode, you’ll discover:
• How Andrew established a riding school with one horse, one pony and a muddy field
• Why his experiences of dyslexia and dyspraxia shaped his approach to horses and education
• How horses can support confidence, resilience and personal development
• Why some young people thrive in equine and outdoor learning environments
• How I-Pegasus CIC helps provide greater access to horses
• The pressures currently facing riding schools, livery yards and equestrian centres
• Why land availability, rising costs and climate change are becoming major concerns
• The importance of investing in yourself and asking others for help
• Why riding centres should be recognised for their wider community value
• What the equestrian industry can achieve by working together and sharing ideas
Most importantly, you’ll hear why Andrew believes access to horses must be protected for future generations and why equestrian centres have such an important part to play within their communities.
Whether you own or manage a riding school, run a livery yard, work within the equestrian industry or have experienced the difference horses can make to someone’s life, this episode offers an honest, uplifting and thought-provoking conversation about resilience, opportunity and the future of equestrian centres.
Listen now and discover why a riding school can be so much more than a place where people learn to ride.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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What Is Your Paddock Trying to Tell You? Rethinking Land Management for Healthier Horses
2026/07/26
What if the weeds, mud and struggling grass in your paddocks aren’t simply problems to eliminate—but signs that your land is trying to tell you something?
In this episode of the Animalweb Podcast, Izzy Taylor from the Animalweb team is joined by environmental consultant and equine land management expert Laura Hobbs to explore how horse owners can create healthier, more resilient land by working with nature rather than constantly fighting against it.
From managing grazing on limited acreage to dealing with mud, weeds, flooding and increasingly unpredictable weather, Laura explains why many of the challenges horse owners face above ground begin with what is happening beneath the surface.
But improving your paddocks doesn’t necessarily mean spending a fortune on fertiliser, reseeding or expensive machinery.
Laura shares a practical and refreshingly different approach to land management, helping horse owners understand what their soil and plants are revealing, make better use of the resources already available and introduce realistic changes that could benefit their horses, their land and their finances.
Throughout the episode, you’ll discover why traditional agricultural advice may not always be appropriate for equestrian land, how continuous grazing can affect soil health and why many plants commonly dismissed as weeds may actually be carrying out valuable work.
Whether you manage several acres or are trying to make the most of a small paddock, this episode offers practical ideas and a fascinating new perspective on one of your most valuable resources.
In this episode you’ll discover:
• What the plants growing in your paddock could be telling you
• Why traditional agricultural approaches may not always suit horses
• How overgrazing affects soil, forage production and land resilience
• Why mud, flooding and summer drought may be more closely connected than we realise
• Whether fertilising, reseeding and soil testing are always necessary
• How to manage grazing more effectively on limited acreage
• Why some weeds could be helping your land recover
• Simple and inexpensive ways to improve your paddocks
• How healthier land can support healthier horses and reduce long-term costs
Most importantly, you’ll hear how changing the way you look at your paddocks could help you move away from repeatedly reacting to problems and towards creating a more sustainable system for both your horses and your land.
If you own horses, manage a yard or are responsible for paddocks and pasture, this episode is packed with practical advice, fresh thinking and expert insight that could completely change the way you view the ground beneath your horses’ feet.
Listen now and discover what your paddock may have been trying to tell you all along.
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YardWise 2026: The Event Every Yard Owner Needs to Know About
2026/06/20
What happens when some of the equestrian industry's most experienced voices come together with one shared goal: helping yard owners build stronger, more sustainable businesses?
In this special episode of Stable Science, Helen Stock is joined by YardWise co-founders Amanda Watson and Cheryl Johns to lift the lid on YardWise 2026—the unique event designed specifically for livery yards, riding schools, equestrian centres, and yard managers.
Following the incredible success of last year's event, YardWise returns bigger than ever, expanding to two days packed with expert guidance, practical solutions, welfare-focused insights, business support, and invaluable networking opportunities.
But this isn't another conference where you're simply talked at.
YardWise is built around real conversations, real challenges, and real solutions. Throughout this episode, you'll discover why so many attendees described last year's event as transformative, how the expert roundtable sessions give direct access to leading specialists, and why collaboration and community are becoming essential tools for future-proofing equestrian businesses.
Whether you're struggling with rising costs, staff management, horse welfare, compliance, diversification, pasture management, marketing, contracts, risk management, or simply trying to make your business more sustainable, this episode provides a fascinating insight into the topics shaping the future of the industry.
In this episode you'll discover:
• Why YardWise has expanded to two days for 2026
• The biggest challenges currently facing equestrian businesses
• How welfare and business success go hand in hand
• Why networking with fellow yard owners can be game-changing
• What makes the YardWise expert roundtables so unique
• The industry-leading speakers and specialists attending this year
• Practical ways to improve efficiency, profitability, and long-term sustainability
• How one piece of advice could transform the way you run your yard
Most importantly, you'll hear why so many business owners left last year's event feeling inspired, supported, and armed with actionable ideas they could implement immediately.
If you're involved in running, managing, supporting, or developing an equestrian business, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and expert knowledge that could make a real difference to your future success.
Listen now and discover why YardWise is quickly becoming one of the most valuable events in the equestrian business calendar.
Find out about YardWise at https://yardwise.co.uk/
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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The Hidden Key to Performance? Equine Breathing and Respiratory Health
2026/05/23
This podcast brings together two of the most respected voices in equine respiratory science and performance, as Dr David Marlin sits down with Jim Chiapetta for a fascinating deep dive into equine breathing, performance, lung health and the science behind nasal strips.
From the origins of FLAIR® Nasal Strips in the late 1990s through to the latest research and real-world application across racing, eventing and barrel racing, this conversation explores how something as simple as supporting the horse’s nasal passages can have significant implications for breathing efficiency, recovery and respiratory welfare.
Listeners will hear exclusive insights into:
Why the horse’s upper airway is such a major source of resistance during exerciseThe link between breathing efficiency and exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage (EIPH)How respiratory strain contributes to long-term lung damage in performance horsesWhy even lower-level competition horses may benefit from respiratory supportThe science and studies behind nasal strips, including research from leading universities and respiratory expertsEmerging ideas around breathing mechanics during recovery and even dressage performanceWhy respiratory health is often overlooked despite being central to performance and welfare
The discussion also offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how scientific scepticism eventually gave way to widespread acceptance, with both David and Jim reflecting on the research, debates, and discoveries that helped establish nasal strips as a legitimate performance and welfare tool.
Whether you are involved in racing, eventing, endurance, dressage or simply want to better understand how horses breathe and perform, this podcast is packed with practical insights, fascinating science and thought-provoking discussion from two people who have spent decades at the forefront of equine respiratory research.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Inside Your Horse’s Mouth - an interview with Meisha Micklewright BVetMed MRCVS BAEDT
2026/03/28
In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock speaks to veterinary surgeon and equine dentist Meisha Micklewright about the realities of equine dental care. Drawing on her dual qualification and hands-on experience, Meisha explains why dentistry is far more than a once-a-year routine.
They discuss how often horses really need dental checks, why many problems go unnoticed, and how issues such as sharp teeth, imbalances and hidden pathology can affect comfort and performance. The conversation also tackles the often-confusing question of who should carry out dental work, and what owners should look for when choosing a professional.
Packed with practical advice, this episode highlights the importance of regular, tailored dental care and gives owners the confidence to make informed decisions for their horse’s health.
Topics covered in this episodeMeisha Micklewright’s career journey into equine dentistryThe value of combining veterinary and dental qualificationsHow often horses really need dental checks, and why it variesWhy a “one size fits all” approach doesn’t work for dental careUnderstanding how horses’ teeth grow and wearCommon dental issues, including sharp edges, gaps (diastema) and “decay-like” problemsWhy many horses show no obvious signs of dental painThe impact of dental health on comfort, behaviour and ridden performanceLinks between dental balance, muscle tension and performance in competition horsesWhen and how to schedule dental care around competition seasonsThe difference between vets and equine dental technicians, and why qualifications matterWhy early checks in young horses and more frequent checks in older horses are important
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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What’s Really in Your Horse’s Bedding? Dust, Data and the Truth About Bale Weights
2026/02/28
In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin takes a deep dive into something every horse owner uses, but few truly scrutinise, bedding.
Drawing on extensive independent testing, owner surveys and even calibrated weight checks, David unpacks the science behind bedding quality, respiratory health, value for money and UK Trading Standards compliance.
This is not a brand-bashing discussion; it is evidence-based information designed to help you make informed decisions for your horse and your wallet.
Why You Should ListenMany brands claim to be “dust free”. David explains why, in laboratory testing, no bedding has ever been completely dust-free.
What dust actually contains, including bacteria, mould spores, pollen and mitesWhy this matters for equine respiratory healthWhich products tested as genuinely low dust, and which performed poorlyIf your horse spends up to 23 hours in the stable, air quality matters.
Beyond Dust – What Really Makes Good Bedding?The podcast explains how Animalweb tests bedding scientifically, including:
AbsorbencyHygienic quality, measured through bacterial and fungal colony growthAmmonia controlResistance to scatteringEase of mucking outDavid also discusses why lab testing is only part of the picture, and how real-world owner experience adds valuable insight.
The Bale Weight InvestigationOne of the most eye-opening sections of the episode looks at bale weights.
David explains how 10 bales of selected shavings brands were weighed on calibrated scales, and what they found:
Some products contained slightly more than statedFour contained less than their advertised or widely sold weightTwo did not comply with UK Trading Standards labelling requirementsWhen you calculate the true price per kilogram based on actual weight, some “cheap” options do not look so economical after all.
The Bottom LineThis episode is about empowering owners with independent data.
It covers:
Respiratory riskHygiene and bacterial loadReal value for moneyLab testing versus marketing claimsHow to interpret bedding choices intelligentlyIf you stable your horse, this is essential listening.
Whether you are concerned about dust, looking to reduce costs, or simply want to make evidence-based decisions, this podcast gives you the tools to do exactly that.
Head to the website for more details and to see the test, survey and investigation results for yourself! Animalweb Bedding
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Coaching With Purpose: Research Insights on Horse Welfare and Decision-Making in Showjumping
2026/01/24
What does a “good life” really look like for a showjumping horse, and how can coaching methods support both equine welfare and rider decision-making under pressure?
In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by British Showjumping coaches Natasha Andrews and Richard Seals, following their research presentations at the BSAS Equine Conference. Drawing directly on their Master’s-level research, the conversation bridges real-world coaching practice with emerging evidence on welfare, learning, and performance.
Natasha explores how showjumping coaches assess and promote a good life for the horse during training sessions, revealing strong welfare awareness but also gaps in formal education on equine learning theory, mental wellbeing, and ethical decision-making. Her findings raise important questions about social licence, duty of care and the emotional challenges coaches face when performance pressures clash with welfare values.
Richard’s research focuses on positive pedagogy and game-based coaching approaches, examining how supportive learning environments help riders develop confidence, adaptability and better decision-making in the arena. He explains why encouraging riders to think for themselves, reflect positively and problem-solve under pressure is not only vital for performance, but also for horse welfare and long-term partnership success.
Together, this episode offers valuable insights for coaches, riders and anyone interested in the future of equestrian sport. It challenges traditional coaching norms, highlights the importance of evidence-based practice, and shows how thoughtful coaching can improve outcomes for both horse and rider.
If you care about welfare, performance and developing confident, ethical equestrian partnerships, this is an episode well worth listening to.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Dr Gillian Tabor explores Bioresonance and the Science Behind the Claims
2025/10/18
Bioresonance (sometimes called bio-energetic therapy or bio-frequency therapy) is an alternative or complementary therapy based on the idea that every cell, tissue, or organ in the body emits its own electromagnetic frequency or “vibration.”
Devices are sold for placement on the skin (or, for animals, sometimes attached to the coat), and the devices measure electrical signals, analyse their “frequencies,” and emit counterfrequencies supposedly intended to cancel or correct the imbalance.
With her characteristic clarity and curiosity, Gillian explores why bioresonance sounds plausible in theory. She also discusses legitimate areas of electromagnetic therapy, such as PEMF and photobiomodulation, and calls for proper research to separate real physiological effects from pseudoscientific claims.
Whether you’ve seen these devices online, been recommended one, or are simply curious about the science behind them, this episode is an essential listen for any evidence-minded equestrian or therapist.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Creating a Happy Riding School - Dr David Marlin chats with Anne Price
2025/10/11
In this conversation, Dr David Marlin speaks with Annie Price, who runs a riding school in Somerset. They discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for riders, particularly those with mental health challenges. Annie shares her experiences of fostering individual growth in riders, addressing bullying, and the cultural differences in equestrian training between Germany and the UK. They emphasise the need for leadership in riding schools to cultivate a happy atmosphere for both riders and horses, and explore innovative teaching methods that prioritise enjoyment and personal development over competition.
Discussion Points:
Creating a supportive environment is crucial for rider development.Cultural differences impact the approach to equestrian training.Individual growth should be prioritised over competition.Mental health awareness is essential in riding schools.Leadership plays a key role in shaping the culture of riding schools.Innovative teaching methods can enhance the learning experience.Building a community fosters confidence and camaraderie among riders.Addressing bullying promptly is necessary for a healthy environment.Happy riders contribute to the well-being of horses.A positive atmosphere leads to a thriving equestrian business.
Find out more about YardWise - yardwise.co.uk
In an industry so vital to equine welfare, yard owners are too often left to figure things out alone. With rising costs, growing client demands, and no real regulation or support, it’s no wonder many feel overwhelmed. YardWise was created to change that.
It’s not just a day out—it’s a practical, in-person event offering real guidance, expert insights and workshops, and a space to connect with others facing the same challenges. From legal and employment advice to welfare and business best practices, it’s tailored for livery yard, riding school, and equestrian centre owners who want to do better—and stand out for it.
Whether you're just starting or have run a yard for years, YardWise is your chance to learn, connect, and be part of a movement that’s raising the standard and protecting the future of the industry.
Join the Yard Owners who have already bought their tickets... Limited tickets available on a first come, first served basis.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Rider in Balance with Maria Terese Engell
2025/08/09
In this relaxed conversation, expert vet and rider biomechanics specialist Maria Terese Engel joins Animalweb to discuss her groundbreaking research into rider asymmetry and movement patterns. Drawing on her unique background in both veterinary medicine and ballet, Maria shares insights from her current studies and the upcoming international launch of the Rider in Balance Academy.
She explains how improving rider awareness and technique off the horse can dramatically change riding performance in just six weeks. From Olympic riders to grassroots amateurs, Maria’s methods centre on building precise body awareness and correcting long-held movement habits. This episode is packed with practical takeaways, especially for anyone striving to ride more sympathetically, improve balance, or avoid unnecessary pressure on the horse.
Watch Maria's previous webinar and videos with Animalweb here:Webinar – Rider Balance with Dr Maria Terese EngellVideo – David meets Dr Maria Terese Engell – AAEP Convention
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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com
Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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Introducing YardWise – A New Event for Yard Professionals
2025/08/02
Introducing YardWise – A New Event for Yard ProfessionalsIn this special episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by Amanda Watson (Equestrian Index) and Cheryl Johns (LiveryList) to introduce YardWise, a brand-new event tailored specifically for livery yard and riding school professionals. The event, taking place on 19 November 2025 at Warwick Trident College, Leamington Spa, is designed to be practical, collaborative, and solution-focused, offering attendees a rare chance to access top industry experts in one place.
Helen, Amanda, and Cheryl share the story behind YardWise, a collaborative effort driven by a shared passion for supporting yard owners and addressing the real-world challenges they face. From welfare and insurance to biosecurity, legal guidance, employment, sustainability, and communication skills, YardWise will tackle the everyday issues that affect yard businesses, with expert-led roundtables and tailored support.
🗓️ YardWise 2025 – Key Details📍 Location: Warwick Trident College, Leamington Spa📅 Date: 19 November 2025💷 Price: £95 (includes lunch, refreshments, and all workshops)🎓 CPD: BHS Accredited Professionals receive 6 CPD points🔗 Tickets & Info: yardwise.co.uk💡 Key TakeawaysNot a conference – a workshop-based experience: No long lectures. Attendees will join small group roundtables with leading experts to discuss the issues that matter most to them.Bring your pain points: YardWise is designed to provide real solutions. Attendees are encouraged to arrive with 3–4 key problems they want to solve.
Expert line-up includes:
Dr David Marlin & Amanda Stoddart-West (Welfare & Welfare Stewarding)Rebecca Stojak (Equine Solicitor – Geldards)Nick de Brauwer & Helen Whitelig (Redwings)SEIB Insurance TeamLizzie Herron (Equestrian Leadership & Communication)Lucy Catan MBE (Code of Good Employment)Claire Shand & Sarah (Worming & Parasite Control)Catherine Chapman (Accountancy & VAT)White Griffin (Equestrian Environmental Sustainability)Gail Eggington (Biosecurity – Ag+)Jane Patching & Leanne Kelly (Health & Safety – IMG)Livery Live (Yard Tech Solutions)British Horse Society (Business Support)
Inclusive and tailored: Relevant for all yard professionals – livery yards, riding schools, mixed yards – no matter your size or experience.
Networking and community-building: A much-needed opportunity for professionals who often work in isolation to connect, learn, and build stronger businesses.
Hospitality by Bedmax & Strawmax: Expect more than a sandwich – attendees will be well looked after!
🔗 Additional InfoWebsite: YardWise.co.ukFacebook: YardWise Facebook PageLinkedIn: YardWise on LinkedIn Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Meet Rachel Bean – Vet Nurse, Educator & Global Canine Welfare Advocate
2025/07/12
Meet Rachel Bean – Vet Nurse, Educator & Global Canine Welfare Advocate
In this episode, we welcome Rachel Bean, a highly experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse, canine first aid trainer, and passionate animal welfare advocate. Rachel joins the Animalweb expert panel and shares her incredible journey, from her early days at the Dogs Trust to working across the globe with street dogs and wildlife detection teams.
We talk about:
How she helps owners choose the right dog and avoid common behavioural issuesThe importance of proper canine first aid training – and why regulation is urgently neededHer international work in places like Thailand, Kenya, Sri Lanka, and the OrkneysHer latest project working with anti-poaching sniffer dogs in ZimbabweHer growing passion for wildlife photographyHer mission to improve animal welfare standards on film and TV sets in the UKWhether you're a dog owner, pet professional, or just animal curious, this episode is full of useful advice, real stories, and inspiration.
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Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
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New FEI Noseband Gauge – What It Means for Riders and Horses
2025/06/28
In this highly relevant Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin is joined by Animalweb's independent bit and bridle fitting expert Emma Busk to unpack the introduction of the new FEI noseband gauge, now in use on the international competition circuit. Together, they explore what the measure means in practice, why it has been introduced, and how riders, stewards, and horse owners are reacting to it.
Emma, who has worked with both the FEI and ISES gauges, shares her practical experience using the new tool and highlights some of the challenges around consistency, fit, and application across different types of nosebands and horse sizes. She and David discuss whether the gauge goes far enough in protecting horse welfare, and what more could be done.
Beyond the gauge, they delve into the broader topic of bit and bridle fitting, exploring why it matters, its impact on performance, and how to assess fit both in the stable and under saddle. Emma emphasises that every horse is different and that correct fit can’t be judged by looks alone. They touch on the importance of collaboration between vets, dentists, physios and fitters, and how past trauma or pain can affect a horse’s response to tack.
The episode closes with some top tips for checking noseband fit and an honest conversation about pressures in the competition world, rider habits, and the myths around stronger bits.
READ Emma's blog - Noseband Tightness in International Sport
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Dr Heather Cameron-Whytock - Equine Fatalities in Eventing
2025/06/07
Dr Heather Cameron-Whytock recently joined the Animalweb Team to tell us about her recently published study - Equine Fatalities In Eventing.
This was originally recorded as a webinar that will be available to watch on AskAnimalweb from Wednesday 11th June.
This conversation delves into Heather and her colleague's recent research on equine fatalities in eventing, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding the risks associated with horse falls. The study reveals that a significant percentage of equine fatalities are due to musculoskeletal injuries and sudden deaths, rather than falls at fences.
To read the published paper - Equine Fatalities In Eventing.
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Dr Gillian Tabor - PAIN – How to tell if your horse has kissing spine, gastric ulcers of arthritis
2025/04/19
PAIN – How to tell if your horse has kissing spine, gastric ulcers of arthritis
How do you know if your horse is in pain, and more importantly, where that pain is coming from?In this episode, equine physiotherapist Dr Gillian Tabor explores the complexities of recognising pain in horses. From facial expressions and behaviour to the blurred lines between conditions like kissing spines, gastric ulcers and lameness, Gillian dives into the latest research to help you spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that something isn't right.
Whether you’re a horse owner, rider or equine professional, this episode is packed with insights on how horses show pain, why behaviours shouldn't be dismissed as 'naughty', and why thinking pain first could be the most important step in safeguarding your horse’s welfare.
Topics include:
The science of how horses perceive painAnticipatory vs actual pain behavioursOverlapping symptoms across common equine conditionsWhy girthiness isn’t always about the girthKey research from Dalla Costa, Dyson, Kumar and more
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Podcast reviews
Read Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb podcast reviews
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★★★★★
somebodymel 2023/09/02
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Oops I see you are chargi...