Understanding Equine Behaviour For Happier Horses

The KBHH Equine Vets Podcast

Jul 25 2023 • 38 mins

This month we are joined by Gemma Pearson, the Director of Equine Behaviour at
The Horse Trust and Veterinary Liaison Officer for the International Society for
Equitation Science.


We discuss how Gemma got into equine behaviour and how we can better support
students in regard to behavioural training. Gemma was heavily involved in the BEVA
campaign ‘Don’t Break Your Vet’, so we reflect on its success and why it’s important
to take equine veterinarians' safety seriously.

We dispel some common myths about equine behaviour and treatment, with a
particular focus on the effects of box rest, medications and behavioural motivations.

Gemma shares her knowledge of the three F’s of a horse's physiological needs, the
impact they can have on a horse's stress response and how we define a happy
horse. Lastly, we discuss how to approach tricky clients in difficult situations and the
use of whips in equine sports.


Useful Links:

Don’t Break Your Vet - YouTube Playlist:
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLZLor1KlzkI9X1UpvbOxwllS1BNoLvcmR

Book Equine Behaviour Consultations With Gemma:

https://www.ed.ac.uk/vet/services/equine-services/hospital/equinebehaviour

Join us each month for a new episode of The KBHH Equine Vets Podcast and stay informed on the latest developments in equine health and wellness. To get in touch with the show, please email kbhhuk@msd.com.