By Cynthia Cooper. Based on research by Emeritus Professor David Mellor (2020–2025) Have you ever wondered how comfortable your horse really is with a bit?New research by Emeritus Professor David Mellor — one of the world’s leading equine welfare scientists — takes a hard look at how bits affect horses’
The Perfect Bit for Your Horse – What Science Really Says Read More »
Your Horse is not a Commodity nor Your Therapist by Marie Bay In a world where productivity and utility often dictate our choices, the concept of simply caring for and cherishing horses without imposing a specific purpose may seem unfamiliar to some. But why should every horse be subjected to
Embracing the Essence of Equine Companionship Read More »
If you use a flash or drop noseband, you may be surprised at the results of a recent preliminary equine study. Jayne Peters from Bishop Burton College, UK and her research team investigated three different noseband designs and their effect on rein tension and the force being exerted on the
Would Your Horse’s Noseband Pass the Pressure Test? Read More »
Since the World Bitless Association was officially launched In October 2018, it has attracted thousands of followers. Their worldwide representation includes vets, trainers, instructors and behaviourists who are focused on equine welfare. Their training methods are based on sound science, (learning theory) compassion and adherence to the principles of LIMA (Least
The World Bitless Association – helping all horses Read More »
There is something especially engaging about seeing healthy horses running free, alert, ears forward, nostrils flared, moving across the ground with ease, displaying exceptional agility, control and power. This article is an original work that advances our understanding of equine respiration and breathlessness. The authors, David J. Mellor * and Ngaio J.
Equine Welfare during Exercise: An Evaluation of Breathing, Breathlessness and Bridles Read More »
WARNING! Some people reading this article may think I’m taking an unfair swipe at various aspects of the horse world and those people who are involved with horses in one way or another. My only intention in writing this piece was to have a good, hard look at “what is”
Enslaved by Glenn Wilson © Read More »
by Cynthia Cooper Recently we had Melbourne Cup Day where the whole of Australia comes to a standstill at about 3pm to listen to, watch and cheer on the elite of the horseracing world. A huge amount of money will be won or lost, and the government will be happy
Spare a thought for the average racehorse Read More »
How many people have you seen take out their anger and frustration on their horse/dog/partner? We’ve probably all been guilty of it at some time or other, I know I have in the past but like to think I have learned more patience and self control through the study of
Changing Tack Will Reduce Cruelty to Horses Read More »
Fortunately for Carla, the 12 year old shetland pony mare, her condition was discovered just prior to the TAFE Hoof Care Course. Her sad situation provided the ideal opportunity for the students to observe how to assess, trim and treat a pony whith hooves in such bad shape. Carla’s hooves
Carla’s Rescue by Hoof Care Course Read More »
CALAN HORSE SANCTUARY In operation since 2005, the sanctuary is based in Highbury – two hours south east of Perth, Western Australia. The equine residents are a mixture of rescued, retired and unwanted animals. Chief guardian, Alan Gent, says “Our challenge has been to alter their flat dull eyes due
Featured Horse Rescue Read More »
Horse Watch – What it is to Be Equine by Marthe Kiley-Worthington This would have to be the best book on Equine Ethology I’ve ever read. And that is simply because the author constantly references her own herd of arabian horses that she has studied extensively over a 20 year
By Vanessa. At an agricultural field day, I came across a small metal pen housing cute young miniature ponies. Three of them were in a tiny pen and as I got closer I saw they were all for sale. They were grumpy and bored and occasionally one would be aggressive
The Plight of Ponies Read More »
