We want to share a significant legal development that may have far-reaching implications for horse welfare in racing.
Posted 30.05.25
A Tasmanian court has ruled that using a padded racing whip on a horse can cause unreasonable and unjustifiable pain, making it an act of animal cruelty under the law.
Official schedule for the 2025 Conference released
Official schedule for the 2025 ISES Conference released, highlighting key sessions on equitation science and horse welfare.
Virtual option now available for the 2025 Conference
Do not miss this opportunity to join us online for one of the biggest conferences in equitation science.
2025 Annual General Meeting
Join us at our AGM! We look forward to welcoming you to this great opportunity to reflect on ISES activities, engage in society governance, and be inspired by a diverse range of speakers sharing their unique paths in equitation science. (29th May)
2025 Annual General Meeting
Join us at our AGM! We look forward to welcoming you to this great opportunity to reflect on ISES activities, engage in society governance, and be inspired by a diverse range of speakers sharing their unique paths in equitation science. (29th May)
2025 Annual General Meeting
Join us at our AGM! We look forward to welcoming you to this great opportunity to reflect on ISES activities, engage in society governance, and be inspired by a diverse range of speakers sharing their unique paths in equitation science. (29th May)
2025 Council Elections
Voting has now commenced for the election of new members to the ISES Council. If you hold an Academic membership you are eligible to vote. We encourage all eligible voters to have your say on who should join Council in 2025. There’s a range of highly qualified new and familiar faces who have volunteered their time and expertise to service on Council to fulfil our mission of sharing equitation science to safeguard horse welfare across the equestrian community.
Voting will continue online until 26 May. For more information about the candidates and to place your vote please click here: https://www.equitationscience.com/2025-nominations
The results of the election will be announced at the AGM which will take place at 8pm UTC on 27 May. Please check your timezone.
View Nominees and Biographies
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.
Visit webinar page
Webinar launch with Dr. Andrew Mclean
We are thrilled to announce the launch of our exciting new ISES Webinar, featuring Dr. Andrew McLean, as he shares the latest insights into Equitation Science. Hosted by Chloe Campbell, ISES Media Manager, this is your exclusive chance to dive into research, training methods, and practical applications for the care and training of horses.
New podcast episode
In this episode, we’re thrilled to speak with Ella Bartlett, Dr. Jo Hockenhull, and Lorna Cameron about Ella’s PhD research: "Exploring the relationship between horse-owner attributes and their approach to horse training."
Meet the Author: Dr Gemma Pearson
Join us for an in-depth conversation with Dr. Gemma Pearson, a trailblazer in equine behavioral medicine and Director of Equine Behaviour at The Horse Trust. With her extensive experience as the first RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Behavioural Medicine (Equine) and her role leading a referral clinic at the University of Edinburgh, Dr. Pearson brings a wealth of knowledge on the science and art of equine behaviour.
New Danish translation for Training Principles
The ISES Training Principles provide a science-based approach to horse training and welfare. These principles are rooted in evidence-based practices and have been frequently referenced in peer-reviewed papers, articles, and scientific journals.
Researchers and equine professionals frequently point to these principles for their basis in learning theory, animal behaviour, and cognitive science.
There are currently 8 translations for the ISES Training Principles Posters! If you would like to help us translate into more languages, let us know!
Learn more
No Significant Difference Found Between 1.5 and 2 Finger Noseband Tightness in New Study, but FEI’s Precautionary Approach Praised
New study finds no significant difference in pressure between 1.5 and 2-finger noseband tightness, but FEI's 2-finger rule is praised for prioritising equine welfare. Researchers urge caution in interpreting findings from small samples and call for further research into behavioural impacts.
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2025 conference date confirmed
The 20th International Society for Equitation Science Conference is back in the U.S. for the first time since 2013! Join inspiring researchers, practitioners, students, veterinary professionals, equine organizations, equine enthusiasts, and industry leaders from across the globe under the theme “Improving Connection with Horses through Science” at Colorado State University in Colorado, USA, July 23rd - July 26th, 2025.
Any updates will be announced via email and our social media, and soon, our website.
Tribute to Professor Frank Ödberg
As we honour Frank's remarkable contributions to the field of animal behaviour and welfare, we reflect on his passion, dedication, and lasting impact on both his students and the broader scientific community. His unwavering commitment to understanding and improving the lives of animals will be deeply missed.
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Position statement summaries available
Explore our newly released summaries of position statements on the website!
Visit now
New Zealand Talks Now Available for Purchase
We are delighted to announce that the insightful talks from the ISES New Zealand Conference are now accessible for purchase at an incredible price of just £5 each!
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Annual General Meeting 2024
The guest speaker videos from the AGM are now available on our YouTube channel and in the members' area under 'Content'. Featuring Géraldine Vandevenne on poll pressure in bit and bridle fitting, Caleigh Copelin on conflict behaviors in Canadian riding lesson horses, and Dr. Gabriel Lencioni on using deep learning to understand horse emotions, these presentations offer valuable insights into equine welfare and behavior.
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News release: FEI Sports Forum
ISES commends FEI for adopting the 5 domains framework for its welfare strategy and emphasizes the importance of evidence-based decision-making in horse welfare matters.
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Annual General Meeting 2024
Join our Annual General Meeting (AGM) on May 28th, 2024, featuring three captivating guest speakers discussing crucial equine science topics. To participate, become a member today!
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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.
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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.
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Member giveaway winner!
Congratulations to FEIF - International Federation of Icelandic Horse Associations for participating and winning in our recent members' survey!
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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!
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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!
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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.
Listen now!
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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New podcast alert!
Dr. Andrew McLean and Jody Hartstone share insights on the game-changing ISES 10 training principles in our new podcast.
Read more...
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.
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Exclusive sneak peek from our honorary and founding fellows Part 1
Professor Paul McGreevy shares personal updates and provides global resources for horse owners.
Professor McGreevy, Dr Kate Fenner, Dr Andrew Mclean and Professor James Serpell's E-BARQ questionnaire extends to ISES members and the equestrian community, offering invaluable information about your horse and other horses worldwide.
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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.
Become a member today!
The First ISES Podcast: Choosing your research subject
The International Society for Equitation Science has just released its first-ever podcast on the subject of choosing a research topic. This podcast offers insights and advice for researchers who want to make informed decisions about their research subjects.
Listen now on our website