Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb

Latest Episodes:

The Hidden Science of Stirrups - Dr David Marlin Feb 15, 2025

Show notes

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the various aspects of stirrups in equestrian riding, including their historical significance, safety concerns, rider asymmetry, and the forces exerted on horses. David emphasizes the importance of stirrup design, the impact of rider position, and the need for further research in this area.

takeaways

Stirrups play a crucial role in mounting and stability.
There are over 429 patents related to stirrups.
Safety stirrups may reduce injury severity during falls.
Rider comfort and stability are key factors in stirrup choice.
Asymmetry in riders can affect performance and horse health.
Forces in the saddle can be significantly higher than expected.
Expensive stirrups may not offer additional benefits.
Proper footwear is essential for safety while riding.
Research on stirrup design is still ongoing and necessary.
Alternating between sitting and standing may benefit the horse's back.

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Horse and rider behaviour, injury and performance Feb 08, 2025

Show notes

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the importance of understanding horse and rider behaviour to reduce the risk of injury and improve performance. David emphasises the need to move away from labelling horses as 'naughty' and instead focus on the underlying reasons for their behaviour, such as pain, confusion, and anxiety. The conversation explores how horses perceive their environment, including their acute hearing abilities, and how this can affect their reactions. David highlights the significance of recognizing conflict behaviours and their potential consequences for both horse and rider, advocating for a more empathetic and informed approach to equestrianism.

Points covered:

Understanding horse behaviour can reduce the risk of injury.
Pain and anxiety are common triggers for unwanted behaviours.
Horses have a different hearing range than humans.
Recognizing a horse's mood can improve training outcomes.
Training should focus on clear communication with the horse.
Horses may react to stimuli that riders cannot perceive.
The term 'naughty' is misleading in equestrian contexts.
Improving horse-rider communication enhances performance.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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The Research Behind Percussive Therapy for Horses: Unlocking Mobility & Comfort - Dr Gillian Tabor Feb 01, 2025

Show notes

In this podcast, Dr Gillian Tabor critiques her own research on the effects of percussive therapy on equine thoracic profiles, mechanical nociceptive thresholds, spinal and limb kinematics, and gait symmetry. The study aimed to provide evidence for the efficacy of percussive therapy devices, which are often marketed with unverified claims. The research methodology included a randomised, blinded crossover design, and the results indicated no significant differences between treatment and sham groups, although no adverse effects were observed. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between statistical and clinical significance and suggests areas for future research.

Dr Gillian Tabor is MSc ResM MCSP HCPCreg, a Chartered Physiotherapist, Cat A member ‘Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy and has lots of great help and advice for horse owners - check out all of her work here - Dr Gillian Tabor

Read the full research paper here.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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Mastering Early Season Horse Training with Dr David Marlin Jan 12, 2025

Show notes

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the best practices for starting early season training for your horse or pony, focusing on soundness and performance. David emphasizes the importance of strengthening the horse's back, ensuring proper saddle fit, and addressing common misconceptions about road work. The conversation also covers dietary needs, exercise frequency, warm-up and cool-down techniques, and post-exercise care to prevent injuries.

Topics covered:

Introduction to Early Season Training
Strengthening the Horse's Back
Saddle Fit and Its Importance
Road Work: Myths and Realities
Diet and Nutrition for Training
Exercise Frequency and Recovery
Warm-Up and Cool-Down Techniques
Post-Exercise Care and Injury Prevention

There is a lot more information on the AskAnimalweb.com website and this article will be very helpful - New Year, New Training Plan

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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Horses have been infected with H5N1 – avian flu, Dr David Marlin talks to the researcher Prof Pablo Murcia. Dec 15, 2024

Show notes

Prof Pablo Murcia talks to Dr David Marlin about his recent paper about horses being infected with H5N1 – avian flu – in Asia, and that infections have been occurring in horses undetected.

In this conversation, Professor Pablo Murcia discusses his recent research on bird flu in horses, emphasizing the importance of understanding avian influenza and its potential impact on equine health. He explains the mechanisms of infection, the risks for horse owners, and the evolving nature of viruses. The discussion also highlights the need for global surveillance and the role of vaccination in controlling infectious diseases.

The study of bird flu in horses is crucial for understanding emerging infectious diseases.
Horses can be exposed to avian influenza viruses, but the health implications are still unclear.
Serology is an important tool for detecting past infections in horses.
The mechanisms of infection in horses are still largely speculative.
High contact rates between horses and infected birds increase the risk of transmission.
Vaccination is essential for preventing outbreaks of equine influenza.
The global spread of avian influenza is a dynamic situation that requires constant monitoring.
Research collaboration is key to understanding and controlling infectious diseases.
Public health messaging must be based on scientific evidence to combat misinformation.
Preparedness is vital in managing potential outbreaks of diseases like bird flu.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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Are Welfare and Performance Mutually Exclusive in Equestrian Sport? Dr David Marlin Dec 08, 2024

Show notes

Are Welfare and Performance Mutually Exclusive in Equestrian Sport?

This week, we’re bringing you something significant - a recorded presentation by Dr. David Marlin from March 2023, all about SLO—Social Licence to Operate.

This presentation predates some of the major welfare controversies that have recently hit the headlines: the military horses galloping through London, the Blue Tongue outcry, and the shockwaves caused by a dressage rider’s training video.

David has been at the forefront of the SLO conversation for years, and we believe now is the perfect time to revisit this critical topic. His presentation reminds us what’s truly at stake—the trust and acceptance that allow us to keep enjoying our horses, our sports, and our industry. If we don’t take Social Licence seriously, we risk losing it all—for our hobby, our profession, and for the horses we care about so deeply.

David’s presentation is titled - Are Welfare and Performance Mutually Exclusive in Equestrian Sport?

You can watch the full presentation on YouTube or on the AskAnimalweb.com website, but for now, enjoy this powerful audio recording. Feel free to comment on our social platforms or email us. Thank you for tuning in!

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A Candid Conversation with Dressage Legend Emile Faurie Dec 01, 2024

Show notes

A Candid Conversation with Dressage Legend Emile Faurie

Join us as we sit down with the legendary Emile Faurie, a stalwart in the world of dressage, for an open and honest interview. Emile shares his incredible journey, including his recent challenges with cancer, from which he is now in remission.

In this heartfelt conversation, Emile discusses:

- His training philosophy and approach with riders and horses, including updates on Tom Goode and their progress.

- The challenges facing the equestrian industry today, why he believes the sport is "in real trouble," and how we can come together to support each other and the future of equestrianism.

- His definition of equine welfare, which he sees as rooted in respect for the horse, and what that truly means to him.

- The myth of money being the ultimate barrier to success in the equestrian world, and what really makes the difference.

- Practical suggestions to better support dressage stewards and riders during competitions.

- The importance of truly understanding and knowing your horse to provide them with the best care and opportunities to thrive.

We’re thrilled to announce that Emile has joined the Animalweb team as an expert, bringing his wealth of knowledge and passion to help riders and the wider equestrian community.

Tune in for this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with one of dressage’s most influential figures!

Emile is also offering an exciting training opportunity for our members - so log onto the website to learn more and take up the offer!

emilefaurie.com

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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An introduction to Animal Genetics with Dr Victoria Lindsay-McGee Nov 24, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, we dive into animal genetics with Dr. Victoria Lindsay-McGee, the newest expert on Animalweb.

Dr. Lindsay-McGee introduces the fundamentals of animal genetics, including:

complex disease genetics
genetic selection
the impact of breeding practices.

She discusses the importance of genetic counselling for animals, as well as the challenges of managing genetic diversity and cultural attitudes towards breeding.

We also explore why Dr. Lindsay-McGee and her team are launching a new study on equestrian community views of equine genetics. Learn how you can participate in this survey to help shape the future of genetics research, ensuring industry priorities align with advancing horse welfare.

Why participate in the latest genetic study?

Help shape the future of equine genetics research
Ensure industry priorities are reflected in upcoming studies
Support scientific advancements that benefit horse welfare

The study has been reviewed and approved by the University of Edinburgh’s Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies Human Ethical Review Committee (URN: HERC_24_083).

To take part in the survey and have your voice heard, follow the link: 2024 Horse Genetics Survey – UK and Europe.

READ about the study here - Equine Genetics Study

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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Dr David Marlin talks to the inventors of the Equiseat Aid Nov 17, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. David Marlin sits down with Vickie Dennis and Ruth Schofield, the minds behind the Equiseat Aid. They dive into the inspiration for creating the Equiseat, a product designed to enhance symmetry, engage the rider's seatbones, and improve rider positioning.

David, Vickie, and Ruth discuss the Equiseat Aid's functionality and its benefits for a range of riders. They also explain why they partnered with Animalweb to put the product to the test through scientific research. David shares insights from a preliminary study conducted at ARU Writtle College with Dr. Roberta Blake, highlighting the initial positive results and the plan for an upcoming larger-scale trial with live horses.

Interested in learning more? Visit www.equiseataid.com. Plus, Animalweb members will soon have the chance to test this innovative product, so keep an eye out on AskAnimalweb.com if you’re interested in being part of the trial!

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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Autumn, Animalweb has you covered - Dr David Marlin Nov 10, 2024

Show notes

A quick podcast from Dr David Marlin about all the topics you'll be thinking about and worrying about this autumn.

Here are a few links to the topics David mentions in the podcast:

Fireworks - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=fireworks
Mudfever - https://askanimalweb.com/webinar-the-skin-of-the-lower-legs-from-mud-fever-to-mites-dr-kieran-obrien/
Increased feeding/bedding - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=bedding
Autumn Colic - https://askanimalweb.com/winter-and-spring-colic/
Rugging - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=rugging
Autumn Laminitis - https://askanimalweb.com/autumn-laminitis-what-are-the-risks/
Probiotics - https://askanimalweb.com/probiotics-prebiotics-and-synbiotics-by-dr-david-marlin/
Linseed - https://askanimalweb.com/linseed-flaxseed-as-a-feed-material-for-horses/
Sycamore Seeds, Seasonal Myopathy - https://askanimalweb.com/atypical-myopathy-seasonal-pasture-myopathy-and-acorn-poisoning-warning-for-the-autumn/

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

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