Join the British Society of Animal Science as it hosts this multidisciplinary equine conference. Designed for scientists, professionals and horse owners alike, this conference will cover the many aspects of equine science and practical horse management.

Uniting science with hands-on practice in horse care, this conference delves into vital subjects such as nutrition, rehabilitation, behaviour, welfare, health, genetics, and horse/rider performance. Through a blend of scientific presentations and engaging workshops, we aspire to connect cutting-edge research with practical implementation for all participants.

Downloads: Event Programme   Event Programme and Book of Abstracts

FRIDAY, 21ST NOVEMBER (DAY 1) | ACADEMIC PROGRAMME

09:15 - 09:45 | REGISTRATION & Arrival Refreshments (Horton C Foyer)

10:00 - 10:15 | WELCOME | Dr Helen Warren, BSAS President & Alltech (Horton C Room)

MORNING SESSIONS | 10:15 - 12:30 | 3 STREAMS

REPRODUCTION & GENETICS (Diamond Room)

Introduction | Session Chair | Dr Victoria Lindsay-McGee, University of Edinburgh

Keynote Speaker:

• Dr Debbie Guest, Royal Veterinary College | Unravelling the genetic basis of fracture risk in Thoroughbred racehorses

Abstract Presentations:

• Rumesha Siriwardena | Mechanistic Insights into the Function of VapA from Equine Rhodococcosis
• Charlotte Cuffe | Multi-omic characterisation of equine muscle associated with equine exertional rhabdomyolysi
• Elizabeth Attree | Methylation profiling of thoroughbred horses with myopathies and tendinopathies to investigate regulatory
• Victoria Lindsay-McGee | Knowledge and priorities of UK and European equine industry stakeholders regarding equine genetics

THERAPY & REHABILITATION (Drummond Room)

Introduction | Session Chair | Dr Kirsty Lesniak, Hartpury University

Keynote Speaker :

• Dr Vicki Walker, Hartpury University | Exercising Choice: From Science to Practice in Equine Rehabilitation

Abstract Presentations:

• Adelaide Chinn | Effect of a Single Acupressure Treatment on the Mechanical Nociceptive Thresholds (MNTs) of the Equine Epaxial Back Musculature
• Laura Howard | Preliminary investigation into the effects of chiropractic treatment and when combined with TECAR therapy on mechanical nociceptive thresholds of the thoracolumbar musculature in mixed breed riding horses
• Charlotte Baker | Investigation into the Recommended Therapeutic Modalities for Horses with Overriding Dorsal Spinous Processes
• Roberta Blake | Is there a difference in pressure under a Pessoa Training Aid when using different pads underneath the roller?

BEHAVIOUR & WELFARE (Horton C Room)

Introduction | Session Chair | Lorna Cameron, Hartpury University

Keynote Speaker:

• Prof Leanne Proops | University of Portsmouth | Understanding the Role of Facial Expressions in Horse Communication

Abstract Presentations:

• Freya Ward | The Influence of Social Media on Public Perception and Attitude Regarding the Equine Industry and its Social License to Operate
• Danica Pollard | A good farrier is like gold. Once you find one don’t let go.’ – routine hoof care practices and problems accessing hoof care by horse, pony, donkey and mule carers
• Charlotte Dodson | A Provisional Study into soundscape for stabled horses
• Catherine Bradley | Differences in perceptions and understanding of equine behaviour between categories of hoof care professional - a worldwide survey
• Linda Greening | Shedding light on stable lighting practices in the UK and the Republic of Ireland
• Saranna Jordan | Searching for success: Exploring key indicators for suitable second careers for former racehorses
• Anya Dyson | A survey investigating the health and welfare implications, risk factors and behavioural markers of learned helplessness in horses

LUNCH | 12:30 - 13:00 (Horton C Foyer)

CAREER PANEL DISCUSSION | 13:00 - 13:45 (Horton C Room)

• Professionals from diverse equine fields explore career opportunities and possibilities. Join the discussion to find out more in this interactive session where the audience will have opportunity to quiz the panel.

AFTERNOON SESSIONS | 14:00 - 17:30 | 3 STREAMS

HORSE & RIDER PERFORMANCE (Horton C Room)

Introduction | Session Chair | Dr David Marlin, President NEWC

Keynote Speakers:

• Dr Sarah Jane Hobbs, UCLan | Managing Balance: A Horse Perspective
• Dr Russell McKechnie-Guire, Centaur Biomechanics /Hartpury | Horse and Rider Interaction: Rider Aysmmetry
• Prof. Jane Williams, Hartpury University | From instincts to insights: applying performance analysis in equestrian sport

Abstract Presentations:

• Abdulaziz Dharman | Training Flat Racehorses in Hot Climates in Qatar: Trainers’ Perceptions
• Anne-Maarit Hyttinen | Effects of strength and/or endurance training on the physical fitness and riding performance of national and international level female equestrians
• Warren Lamperd | What is coaching for an elite equestrian rider?
• Roberta Blake | Effect of Girth Design and Girth Tension on Saddle-Horse Pressures and Forelimb Stride Kinematics in Rising Trot
• Roberta Blake | Pressure Distribution when Riding Horses with a Saddle Compared to a Bareback Pad in Walk and Sitting Trot
• Richard Seals | Equestrian Coaches’ Use of Positive Pedagogy and Game-Based Approaches to Develop Decision-Making in Riders
• Natasha Andrews | An investigation into how British Showjumping coaches assess and promote "A Good Life for a horse" in training sessions

NUTRITION & FEEDING: FEEDING HORSES IN THE FUTURE (Drummond Room)

Introduction | Session Chairs | Dr Simon Daniels, Royal Agricultural University & Dr Stephanie Wood, Equine Nutritionist

Keynote Speakers:

• Ruth Bishop, HJ Lea Oakes , Chair BETA Feed Committee | Industry perspectives on feeding horses in the future
• Dr Dave Davies, Silage Solutions Ltd | Forage Management for Nutrition and Hygiene

Abstract Presentations:

• Robert Furmage | Occurrence and Risk Assessment of Mycotoxins in UK Horse Feed
• Simon Daniels | Feeding and management practices and Equine Gastric Ulceration Syndrome (EGUS) prevalence in UK TB racehorses
• Jennifer Little | The Effect of Forage Bag Design on Rate of Hay Consumption in Horses

HEALTH & DISEASE (Diamond Room)

Introduction, Session Chair | Dr Kirsty Lesniak, Hartpury University

Keynote Speaker:

• Prof. Scott Pirie, The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies | Equine Grass Sickness – zeroing in on the elusive cause

Abstract Presentations:

• Justyna Kalbarczyk | Animal Fascial Manipulation for ulcer problems in horses
• Kirsty Gartland | Equine Neonatal Sepsis: The Ability of Equestrians to Identify Healthy Foal Parameters and their Confidence in Recognising Typical Clinical Signs
• Maria Júdice da Costa | Antimicrobial Activity of Cannabinoids and Terpenes Towards Common Equine Wound Pathogens and their Biofilms
• Cerys McMurray | “I don’t know whether I’m doing the right thing or the wrong thing”: a qualitative exploration of beliefs and practices in relation to equine parasite management in Northern Ireland

CLOSE

SATURDAY 22ND NOVEMBER (DAY 2) | HORSE OWNER AND ALLIED PROFESSIONALS PROGRAMME

09:15 - 09:45 | REGISTRATION & Arrival Refreshments (Horton C Foyer)

10:00 - 10:15 | WELCOME | Dr Helen Warren, BSAS President & Alltech (Horton C)

MORNING SESSIONS | 10:15 - 12:30 | 2 STREAMS

ALLIED PROFESSIONALS (Horton C)

Introduction | Session Chair |Dr Helen Warren, Alltech

Keynote Speakers:

• James Arkley, Equine Dental Technician | Equine Dental Care
• Di Fisher, Bridle Fitter | Bridle Fitting for Performance and Welfare
• Ben Benson, Farrier | Farriery unblocking performance
• Sally Charlton, McTimoney Practitioner | More than horse sense, evidence based benefits of equine chiropractic for performance

HORSE OWNER (Diamond Room) Tailored workshops for horse owners

Introduction | Session Chair | Dr Stephanie Wood, Equine Nutritionist

Workshop 1 - Forage for nutrition and managing pasture

• Dr Dave Davies, Silage Solutions Ltd 

Workshop 2 - Parasites

• Dr Simon Daniels, Royal Agricultural University

Workshop 3 - Keeping our horses sound

• Dr Gillian Tabor, ACPAT Chartered Physiotherapist 

LUNCH | 12:30 - 13:30 (Horton C Foyer)

ALLIED PROFESSIONALS PANEL DISCUSSION | 13:30 - 15:00 (Horton C Room)

• An engaging session with keynote speakers from the allied professional stream as they participate in a panel dialogue. They will delve into collaborative strategies for horse management and respond to audience questions.

REFRESHMENT BREAK | 15:00 - 15:15 (Horton C Foyer)

PLENARY | 15:15 - 16:15 (Horton C)

• Dr David Marlin discusses the equine industry's social license to operate, as well as recent research into aspects of horse welfare.

CLOSING REMARKS | 16:15 - 16:30 (Horton C) Dr Helen Warren, Alltech

CLOSE

 

Continuing Professional Development (CPD)

On the BSAS Register? This event has been approved for purposes of CPD and can be counted as 24 CPD points.

Accredited with the British Horse Society? The event has been approved for a total of 6 CPD points (3 points each day) 

Approved by the Royal Society of Biology for purposes of CPD, this event may be counted as 36 CPD points

Approved by AMTRA for 40 CPD points in total available for SQPs (36 CPD for Fri 21st, 4 CPD for Sat 22nd)

Registration Fees

Ticket Type	Cost (GBP)
BSAS Member Ticket Day 1	£90
Non-Member Ticket Day 1	£150
BSAS Student Member Ticket Each Day 1 & 2	£45
Student Non-Member Ticket Each Day 1 & 2	£50
BSAS Member Ticket Day 2	£90
Non-Member Ticket Day 2	£100
Horse Owner / Non-Professional* Day 2	£60

*Please note that you cannot collect CPD points nor will a certificate of attendance be issued for the Non-professional ticket option