interaction | Horse Racing Free Tips

The stirrup iron has the potential to modify the forces experienced by a horse and rider during ridden exercise. A range of stirrup designs are available, but previous research has not investigated if these modifications influence a rider's position and interactions with the horse. A research team from Michigan State University recently set out to determine if novel flexible, flexible and rotatable, or traditional stirrups irons positively impacts the welfare and performance of the horse and rider.

Four riders rode using the three stirrup types. Hip, knee, and ankle angles, toe position, and force were measured at the highest and lowest point of the posting trot and canter.

No significant differences were seen between joint angles, toe position, or forces between the types of stirrups. At the highest point, average hip, knee, and ankle angles were 169°, 151°, and 94°, while the same joints averaged 139°, 124°, and 93° at the lowest point. Interestingly, right toes rotated more laterally regardless of stirrup type. The average forces applied were greatest at the highest point of the posting trot and lowest during the canter.

The researchers concluded that stirrup style minimally impacted rider position or the forces experienced; however, forces differed by gait. Future studies regarding how a rider's experience and joint pains may contribute to asymmetries are warranted. For more information on this research, read the abstract in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science.

The post Update: Impact Of Stirrup Style On Horse And Rider appeared first on Horse Racing News | Paulick Report.

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The interactions between horses and humans were discussed during a three-day, virtual conference hosted by the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES). Dr. Katrina Merkies recounted research on understanding human impact on the physiological and behavioral states of horses. She believes that evidence-based research will continually improve equine welfare, reports Equine Guelph.

During her presentation, Merkies referenced a survey that asked people to characterize their bond with their horse. Respondents reported that their horse approaches them, vocally greets them and touches them. They also stated that their horses may turn to them when frightened.

Another study noted that while survey participants may be able to discern a scenario where there is a physical threat to a horse, they might not be able to accurately answer questions regarding when a horse is bored or frustrated. This lack of understanding is of concern as the “five freedoms of animal welfare” recommends that animals not just survive, but thrive in the care they are receiving—their social and emotional needs must also be met in addition to their needs for food, water and shelter.

Merkies also reported that:

Horses blink less when they're acutely stressed
People who possess insecure attachment styles do not overly stress therapy horses
Horses can aptly distinguish between human facial expressions
Horses are more likely to approach an attentive person than an inattentive person
Horses react to the tone of voice used with them
Incorrect use of negative reinforcement increases stress in horses
Horses that live out most of the time become desensitized to novel stimuli more rapidly

Merkies finished her presentation reiterating that humans in charge of horses must be in tune with equine needs and allow horses to express themselves. She believes that education will assist horse owners and handlers in their ability to recognize positive welfare as well as welfare warning signs.

Tag: interaction

Update: Impact Of Stirrup Style On Horse And Rider

Ongoing Research On Horse-Human Interactions Bode Well For Equine Welfare