Nominations open for new council members

Are you passionate about equine welfare and equitation science? Do you want to help shape the future of ISES and contribute to positive change in the equestrian world? We are currently seeking nominations for new members to join the ISES Council in 2025.

Whether you are a researcher, trainer, veterinarian, student, or equestrian enthusiast with skills in media, education, governance, or communication, your expertise could make a real difference. If you or someone you know would be a great fit, we encourage you to submit a nomination and be part of our mission to improve horse welfare through science.

Travel grants available for the ISES Conference!

A reminder that applications for the ISES Travel Grants close on 1st April! If you're planning to attend the 2025 International ISES Conference, or need funding in order to attend, this is a great opportunity to receive £1000 in funding to support your travel.

New webinar episode with Shawna Karrasch and Jessie Hillegas

This session explores the principles of positive reinforcement in horse training, focusing on how reward-based methods shape behavior and enhance learning. It will cover practical applications, ethical considerations, and the benefits of incorporating positive reinforcement into equine training.

Last call for webinar episode 2!

Conference page updates

1st Webinar Launch...Visit Now!

2025 Conference Page Launch

Webinar launch with Dr. Andrew Mclean

New podcast episode 

New podcast episode

Meet the Author: Dr Gemma Pearson

New Danish translation for Training Principles

And just like that - the ISES Conference is over!

Read what Professor Nat Waran, one of the esteemed organisers of the 2024 ISES Conference has to say to wrap up the event.

Are you a Practitioner member of ISES?

We’re looking for a current Practitioner member to share their experiences at our upcoming Annual General Meeting being held on May 28, 2024.  This year’s theme is Beyond the Bridle and we’re interested in hearing from practitioners who are innovative in their use of technology to improve the welfare and quality of lives of their horses, their clients’ horses or when helping clients. 

Member giveaway winner!

Congratulations to FEIF - International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations for participating and winning in our recent members' survey!

Conference information update

There is just 1 week left of Early Bird Rates! Read more about confirmed themes, plenary speakers and the Clever Hans Talk!

Why 'Moody Mare' Memes Are a Problem

Ever laughed at those 'moody mare' videos? Think twice! Such content, intended as humour, perpetuates harmful stereotypes about mares being difficult, especially chestnuts. Dr. Antonia Henderson sheds light on why these videos aren’t just about laughs but have broader implications for horse welfare, owners, and the equine industry.

New ISES Infographic

Delve into the narrative of the 2023 Grand National's equine welfare discourse, available to all seeking a comprehensive understanding beyond the race's surface.

Sponsors confirmed for the ISES Conference 2024 in New Zealand

Our sponsors are instrumental in making this event possible, contributing significantly to the progress of equine welfare.

Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 6

Professor Jan Ladewig, drawing on 50 years of research, highlights historical mistreatment of domestic animals. Advocating for group housing for riding horses, he emphasises the similarities between domestic and wild animals. Acknowledging potential challenges, Ladewig underscores the importance of socialisation and training for young horses, creating safer riding experiences. He believes that improving housing conditions and preparation can make horseback riding less risky and more appealing, potentially reducing rider fear and dropouts.

Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 5

In an exclusive preview, Dr. Camie Heleski, one of our honorary fellows, sheds light on critical aspects of the equestrian world. Delving into topics such as the Social License to Operate, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility. Dr. Heleski emphasises the evolving landscape of equine welfare. As societal concerns rise, particularly around practices like whip use and inadequate horse care, there is a growing risk to the approval of equestrianism.

Read more about Dr. Heleski's professional updates!

New podcast alert!

In this engaging podcast, Dr. Jan Ladewig, Jody Hartstone, and Dr. Andrew McLean, discuss horse and human safety, covering topics like separation anxiety, safety statistics, and teaching horses key behaviours. They stress integrating these principles into organisational training, share practical tips, and delve into the future of safety in equestrianism, including learning theory and dispelling misconceptions about group housing for horses.

Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 4

Explore the expertise of Professor Frank Ödberg, a distinguished figure in applied ethology since 1968, as he delves into the intricate world of equine behaviour. With a passion for horses extending from academic research to active participation in dressage, Professor Ödberg advocates for ethical riding practices and addresses the global issue of hyperflexion in competition horses, offering nuanced insights and solutions.

Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 3

In a recent conversation with Dr. Camie Heleski, we received a delightful professional update. Camie is an honorary fellow of ISES and a prominent researcher on domestic animal behaviour and welfare. In this update, Camie describes her engagement in equine welfare as a member of the FEI Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission and discussions on Social License to Operate in equestrian sport. Camie also serves as a co-chair for the NAEAA DEI committee, focusing on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion matters.

ISES October Newsletter

Read what our President Dr. Katrina Merkies covers in her year in office, IT assistance request, upcoming conference, sponsorship opportunities, member achievements, a creative challenge, annual report, and a survey on horse problem behaviours.

ISES offers 5 people up to £1000 to support travel costs towards the 2024 Annual Conference: New Zealand

Are you eager to attend the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) conference in New Zealand in 2024 but concerned about the costs? We have great news for you! ISES is offering travel grants to help individuals attend the upcoming conference.

ISES Supports the Recommendations Made by the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission

The International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) has been in contact with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) to support the recommendations made by the Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission.

Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 2

In a recent conversation with Dr. Debbie Goodwin, we received a delightful personal update from her. Debbie is co-founder of ISES and a prominent researcher on domestic animal behaviour and welfare.

ISES Infographics

ISES has recently launched a captivating series of infographics, available exclusively to members. Every two weeks, the members area will be updated with new, groundbreaking research episodes. Regardless of your level of expertise, these infographics are designed to enhance your understanding of equitation science.

This is exclusive to ISES members.