Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb
STABLE SCIENCE is a must to promote the health, well-being and performance of all horses. Dr David Marlin’s Animalweb offers a straightforward approach to challenges, disrupting and reshaping the outdated equestrian education many of us have grown up with.Along with a mighty team of experts, David is helping all horse owners, riders and breeders achieve optimal performance for their much-loved horses, horses are living healthier, happier, longer lives by using the latest that science and technology can give us.AskAnimalweb.com is an independent resource website for all equestrians. A source of unbiased, science-based research, delivering news, product re...
Dr Gillian Tabor explores Bioresonance and the Science Behind the Claims

Bioresonance (sometimes called bio-energetic therapy or bio-frequency therapy) is an alternative or complementary therapy based on the idea that every cell, tissue, or organ in the body emits its own electromagnetic frequency or “vibration.”
Devices are sold for placement on the skin (or, for animals, sometimes attached to the coat), and the devices measure electrical signals, analyse their “frequencies,” and emit counterfrequencies supposedly intended to cancel or correct the imbalance.
With her characteristic clarity and curiosity, Gillian explores why bioresonance sounds plausible in theory. She also discusses legitimate areas of electromagnetic therapy, such as PEMF a...
Creating a Happy Riding School - Dr David Marlin chats with Anne Price

In this conversation, Dr David Marlin speaks with Annie Price, who runs a riding school in Somerset. They discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for riders, particularly those with mental health challenges. Annie shares her experiences of fostering individual growth in riders, addressing bullying, and the cultural differences in equestrian training between Germany and the UK. They emphasise the need for leadership in riding schools to cultivate a happy atmosphere for both riders and horses, and explore innovative teaching methods that prioritise enjoyment and personal development over competition.
Discussion Points:
Creating a...Rider in Balance with Maria Terese Engell

In this relaxed conversation, expert vet and rider biomechanics specialist Maria Terese Engel joins Animalweb to discuss her groundbreaking research into rider asymmetry and movement patterns. Drawing on her unique background in both veterinary medicine and ballet, Maria shares insights from her current studies and the upcoming international launch of the Rider in Balance Academy.
She explains how improving rider awareness and technique off the horse can dramatically change riding performance in just six weeks. From Olympic riders to grassroots amateurs, Maria’s methods centre on building precise body awareness and correcting long-held movement habits. This ep...
Introducing YardWise – A New Event for Yard Professionals

Introducing YardWise – A New Event for Yard Professionals
In this special episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by Amanda Watson (Equestrian Index) and Cheryl Johns (LiveryList) to introduce YardWise, a brand-new event tailored specifically for livery yard and riding school professionals. The event, taking place on 19 November 2025 at Warwick Trident College, Leamington Spa, is designed to be practical, collaborative, and solution-focused, offering attendees a rare chance to access top industry experts in one place.
Helen, Amanda, and Cheryl share the story behind YardWise, a collaborative effort driven by a sh...
Meet Rachel Bean – Vet Nurse, Educator & Global Canine Welfare Advocate

Meet Rachel Bean – Vet Nurse, Educator & Global Canine Welfare Advocate
In this episode, we welcome Rachel Bean, a highly experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse, canine first aid trainer, and passionate animal welfare advocate. Rachel joins the Animalweb expert panel and shares her incredible journey, from her early days at the Dogs Trust to working across the globe with street dogs and wildlife detection teams.
We talk about:
How she helps owners choose the right dog and avoid common behavioural issuesThe importance of proper canine first aid training – and why regulation is urgently neededHer international work in p...New FEI Noseband Gauge – What It Means for Riders and Horses

In this highly relevant Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin is joined by Animalweb's independent bit and bridle fitting expert Emma Busk to unpack the introduction of the new FEI noseband gauge, now in use on the international competition circuit. Together, they explore what the measure means in practice, why it has been introduced, and how riders, stewards, and horse owners are reacting to it.
Emma, who has worked with both the FEI and ISES gauges, shares her practical experience using the new tool and highlights some of the challenges around consistency, fit, and application across different types...
Dr Heather Cameron-Whytock - Equine Fatalities in Eventing

Dr Heather Cameron-Whytock recently joined the Animalweb Team to tell us about her recently published study - Equine Fatalities In Eventing.
This was originally recorded as a webinar that will be available to watch on AskAnimalweb from Wednesday 11th June.
This conversation delves into Heather and her colleague's recent research on equine fatalities in eventing, highlighting the misconceptions surrounding the risks associated with horse falls. The study reveals that a significant percentage of equine fatalities are due to musculoskeletal injuries and sudden deaths, rather than falls at fences.
To read the...
Dr Gillian Tabor - PAIN – How to tell if your horse has kissing spine, gastric ulcers of arthritis

PAIN – How to tell if your horse has kissing spine, gastric ulcers of arthritis
How do you know if your horse is in pain, and more importantly, where that pain is coming from?
In this episode, equine physiotherapist Dr Gillian Tabor explores the complexities of recognising pain in horses. From facial expressions and behaviour to the blurred lines between conditions like kissing spines, gastric ulcers and lameness, Gillian dives into the latest research to help you spot the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs that something isn't right.
Wh...
Snaffle vs Double Bridle – What Does the Science Say?

In this episode, Dr David Marlin takes us inside the findings of a ground-breaking new research paper titled “Comparison of Rein Forces and Pressure Beneath the Noseband and Headpiece of a Snaffle Bridle and a Double Bridle”, recently published in the journal Animals.
Amidst ongoing public debate and controversy surrounding the use of double bridles in dressage, David shares how this study aimed to put assumptions to the test with science. Working with a team of researchers and high-level dressage horses, the study compared rein tension and pressure at key contact points across both snaffle and double brid...
Equine Spring Health - Dr David Marlin

This podcast discusses the various health risks that horses face during the spring season, including colic, laminitis, grass sickness, head shaking, atypical myopathy, and respiratory issues. Dr David Marlin emphasises the importance of gradual management changes, monitoring horse health, and consulting veterinarians when necessary. The conversation highlights the complex interplay between environmental factors and horse health, providing practical tips for horse owners to mitigate risks during this season.
There is lots of information on the Animalweb website to help and support you and your animals through Spring.
VIDEO - Spring Respiratory IssuesARTICLE – Spring Associated Respiratory Di...Reading between the research lines with Dr Gillian Tabor

Reading between the research lines - factors in studies that can affect how much we can trust the impact of the study.
In this podcast, Dr Gillian Tabor discusses the intricacies of evaluating research in animal physiotherapy, particularly focusing on horses. She emphasises the importance of understanding research limitations, the necessity of robust methodologies, and the critical evaluation of statistical significance versus clinical relevance. The conversation provides insights into how to effectively critique research papers and apply findings to clinical practice.
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Dr David Marlin on the latest round of Saddle Pad Testing!

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the complexities of saddle pads, including their functions, testing methods, and how to choose the right one for your horse. She emphasises the importance of informed choices based on laboratory testing and user feedback, while also cautioning against manufacturers' claims without evidence. The conversation highlights the need for proper saddle fitting and the role of saddle pads in equine health and comfort.
Points covered:
There are many brands and models of saddle pads available.Testing saddle pads under identical conditions allows for direct comparison.Saddle pads serve multiple...Studs on Artificial Surfaces, Research Review - Dr Gillian Tabor

Research Review: The Effect of Screw-in Studs on Equine Hoof and Limb Kinematics on Artificial Surfaces
In this podcast, Dr Gillian Tabor reviews a study on the effects of screw-in studs on equine hoof and limb kinematics during cantering and jumping on artificial surfaces. The study aims to understand the benefits and risks associated with using studs, particularly in terms of injury prevention and performance enhancement. The findings indicate that while there were no significant differences in slip distance, certain kinematic parameters were affected, leading to discussions on the implications for equestrian practices.
...
The Hidden Science of Stirrups - Dr David Marlin

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the various aspects of stirrups in equestrian riding, including their historical significance, safety concerns, rider asymmetry, and the forces exerted on horses. David emphasizes the importance of stirrup design, the impact of rider position, and the need for further research in this area.
takeaways
Stirrups play a crucial role in mounting and stability.There are over 429 patents related to stirrups.Safety stirrups may reduce injury severity during falls.Rider comfort and stability are key factors in stirrup choice.Asymmetry in riders can affect performance and horse health.Forces...Horse and rider behaviour, injury and performance

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the importance of understanding horse and rider behaviour to reduce the risk of injury and improve performance. David emphasises the need to move away from labelling horses as 'naughty' and instead focus on the underlying reasons for their behaviour, such as pain, confusion, and anxiety. The conversation explores how horses perceive their environment, including their acute hearing abilities, and how this can affect their reactions. David highlights the significance of recognizing conflict behaviours and their potential consequences for both horse and rider, advocating for a more empathetic and informed approach to equestrianism.<...
The Research Behind Percussive Therapy for Horses: Unlocking Mobility & Comfort - Dr Gillian Tabor

In this podcast, Dr Gillian Tabor critiques her own research on the effects of percussive therapy on equine thoracic profiles, mechanical nociceptive thresholds, spinal and limb kinematics, and gait symmetry. The study aimed to provide evidence for the efficacy of percussive therapy devices, which are often marketed with unverified claims. The research methodology included a randomised, blinded crossover design, and the results indicated no significant differences between treatment and sham groups, although no adverse effects were observed. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between statistical and clinical significance and suggests areas for future research.
Dr...
Mastering Early Season Horse Training with Dr David Marlin

In this podcast, Dr David Marlin discusses the best practices for starting early season training for your horse or pony, focusing on soundness and performance. David emphasizes the importance of strengthening the horse's back, ensuring proper saddle fit, and addressing common misconceptions about road work. The conversation also covers dietary needs, exercise frequency, warm-up and cool-down techniques, and post-exercise care to prevent injuries.
Topics covered:
Introduction to Early Season TrainingStrengthening the Horse's BackSaddle Fit and Its ImportanceRoad Work: Myths and RealitiesDiet and Nutrition for TrainingExercise Frequency and RecoveryWarm-Up and Cool-Down TechniquesPost-Exercise Care and Injury Prevention<...Horses have been infected with H5N1 – avian flu, Dr David Marlin talks to the researcher Prof Pablo Murcia.

Prof Pablo Murcia talks to Dr David Marlin about his recent paper about horses being infected with H5N1 – avian flu – in Asia, and that infections have been occurring in horses undetected.
In this conversation, Professor Pablo Murcia discusses his recent research on bird flu in horses, emphasizing the importance of understanding avian influenza and its potential impact on equine health. He explains the mechanisms of infection, the risks for horse owners, and the evolving nature of viruses. The discussion also highlights the need for global surveillance and the role of vaccination in controlling infectious diseases.
Are Welfare and Performance Mutually Exclusive in Equestrian Sport? Dr David Marlin

Are Welfare and Performance Mutually Exclusive in Equestrian Sport?
This week, we’re bringing you something significant - a recorded presentation by Dr. David Marlin from March 2023, all about SLO—Social Licence to Operate.
This presentation predates some of the major welfare controversies that have recently hit the headlines: the military horses galloping through London, the Blue Tongue outcry, and the shockwaves caused by a dressage rider’s training video.
David has been at the forefront of the SLO conversation for years, and we believe now is the perfect time to revisit this c...
A Candid Conversation with Dressage Legend Emile Faurie

A Candid Conversation with Dressage Legend Emile Faurie
Join us as we sit down with the legendary Emile Faurie, a stalwart in the world of dressage, for an open and honest interview. Emile shares his incredible journey, including his recent challenges with cancer, from which he is now in remission.
In this heartfelt conversation, Emile discusses:
- His training philosophy and approach with riders and horses, including updates on Tom Goode and their progress.
- The challenges facing the equestrian industry today, why he believes the sport is "in real...
An introduction to Animal Genetics with Dr Victoria Lindsay-McGee

In this episode, we dive into animal genetics with Dr. Victoria Lindsay-McGee, the newest expert on Animalweb.
Dr. Lindsay-McGee introduces the fundamentals of animal genetics, including:
complex disease geneticsgenetic selectionthe impact of breeding practices.She discusses the importance of genetic counselling for animals, as well as the challenges of managing genetic diversity and cultural attitudes towards breeding.
We also explore why Dr. Lindsay-McGee and her team are launching a new study on equestrian community views of equine genetics. Learn how you can participate in this survey to help shape...
Dr David Marlin talks to the inventors of the Equiseat Aid

In this episode, Dr. David Marlin sits down with Vickie Dennis and Ruth Schofield, the minds behind the Equiseat Aid. They dive into the inspiration for creating the Equiseat, a product designed to enhance symmetry, engage the rider's seatbones, and improve rider positioning.
David, Vickie, and Ruth discuss the Equiseat Aid's functionality and its benefits for a range of riders. They also explain why they partnered with Animalweb to put the product to the test through scientific research. David shares insights from a preliminary study conducted at ARU Writtle College with Dr. Roberta Blake, highlighting the...
Autumn, Animalweb has you covered - Dr David Marlin

A quick podcast from Dr David Marlin about all the topics you'll be thinking about and worrying about this autumn.
Here are a few links to the topics David mentions in the podcast:
Fireworks - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=fireworksMudfever - https://askanimalweb.com/webinar-the-skin-of-the-lower-legs-from-mud-fever-to-mites-dr-kieran-obrien/Increased feeding/bedding - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=beddingAutumn Colic - https://askanimalweb.com/winter-and-spring-colic/Rugging - https://askanimalweb.com/?s=ruggingAutumn Laminitis - https://askanimalweb.com/autumn-laminitis-what-are-the-risks/Probiotics - https://askanimalweb.com/probiotics-prebiotics-and-synbiotics-by-dr-david-marlin/Linseed - https://askanimalweb.com/linseed-flaxseed-as-a-feed-material-for-horses/Sycamore Seeds, Seasonal Myopathy - https://askanimalweb.com/atypical-myopathy-seasonal-pasture-myopathy-and-acorn-poisoning-warning-for-the-autumn/<...
Dr David Marlin interviews Farrier Ben Benson at ACPAT

Dr David Marlin took the opportunity to catch up with his old friend and colleague, farrier Ben Benson, at the annual Acpat seminar at Leamington Spa in October 2024.
Ben Benson AWCF Farrier presented at the conference 'The Farrier's role in influencing equine posture and injury prevention'.
They discuss the role of the farrier and how they can work with other professionals to determine the best course of action for any horse - given their unique perspective. How can a horse owner/rider get all these experts working together.
Why is...
Livery Yard Drama or Harmony? With Nicola Bell & Adi Devonish

TWO Animalweb experts, Adi Devonish and Nicola Bell, come together to discuss the trials and issues with running livery yards and what yard owners and their liveries need to be talking about, planning for and discussing.
The conversation includes:
Cost of having a horse on liveryThe vital role grooms and yard staff provideHow yard owners and their liveries interact and communicateDealing with welfare issuesWhat support and training do our livery yard owners and their staff needWhat do we need to do to ensure our industry is here to stay, and how can we improve it...Dr David Marlin on Blue Tongue

Dr David Marlin discusses Blue Tongue
What do we know?What do we THINK we know?What do we NEED to know?Why have we only been seeing images fairly recently?
What can we learn from the photos we have seen? And why photos can't tell us everything we need.
David also discusses a small pilot survey about Blue Tongue and what could be causing it.
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Dr David Marlin Reviews the latest results from the Second Round of Bedding Testing

Dr David Marlin discusses the different beddings the Animalweb team tested from the first round to this second round. There are a wide variety of types from all the different manufacturers.
David discusses all the different tests that have taken place; dust, hygienic quality, absorbency and marketing claims.
Do you use any of these bedding products?
Bedmax Littlemax & StrawmaxCaviera Cavianthus & RavieraChampion ChipEasibedEthos OriginalProbale ProbedSorbeo HorseSundown Sun-e-bedSwish OriginalOR any of these?AubioseBlue FrogBedkindBedmaxConcordHunterMegaspreadMegazorbNatural FlakePlatium PlusSnowflakeWooburnWant to know which is the lowest for DUST, most HYGIENIC, most ABSORBANT and...
Dr David Marlin interviews Leading Event Coach Caroline Moore (LIVE from Burghley)

Caroline is LIVE from Burghley Horse Trials, and David is away on holiday, but the two found a little time to catch up and discuss their work.
Caroline is a renowned Eventing Coach who works with many leading horses and riders. Although spending her life producing horses and riding up to 5*, Caroline’s passion has always been in coaching and helping others achieve their goals. Caroline became a Fellow of the British Horse Society in 2008, had three years of experience as a Young Rider selector and spent the next ten years as a Youth Performance Coach fo...
The Sympathetic Nervous System by Dr Gillian Tabor

What is the autonomic nervous system, and how does it affect our horses?
In this podcast Dr Gillian Tabor discusses the flight and fight, rest and digest elements of horse behaviour and poses the questions:
Is being in a high arousal state always a concern?Can it be beneficial in rehab and training?We have a lot to learn about motivation and ideas such as 'flow state' and how they can be applied to horses, but we must consider that much can be translated. What do you think?
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Dr Gillian Tabor reviews TWO Rehabilitation Exercise Research Papers

Animalweb's Equine Physiotherapist Dr Gillian Tabor reviews two new research papers on rehabilitation exercises:
The first paper investigates the horse's trunk kinematics and limb movement when walking backwards and forwards.
Jobst, I.D., Zsoldos, R.R. and Licka, T.F., 2024. Trunk kinematics and limb movement of horses walking backwards and forwards in hand and lifting a single limb. The Veterinary Journal, p.106202. Links to the studies can be found on the Animalweb website.
The second paper evaluates the electromyography activity of a horse's hindlimb muscles during exercises.
Elósegui, M., Cedie...Dr David Marlin Interviews Charlotte Hodgetts - Cooling Horses Research

Dr David Marlin Interviews Charlotte Hodgetts of Myerscough College about her latest Research into Cooling Horses.
David chats with Charlotte about how her equine science career started and what led her to research cooling horses.
Charlotte's work and abstract can be found on the Animalweb website here.
To understand more, here is the Introduction:
Introduction: Strenuous exercise like British Eventing (BE) cross-country competition can increase equine core body temperatures to critical levels, particularly in hot/humid conditions without suitable acclimatisation (Marlin et al., 1996). Heat stroke is a welfare c...
Dr David Marlin - How Are Decisions Around Climate Management For Major Equestrian Events Such As The Olympics Made?

Listen to Dr David Marlin as he discusses in-depth how he advises the FEI and IOC on climate mitigation and, essentially, how to manage competitions in terms of climate and temperature.
This is an incredible podcast where David discusses:
EducationSchedulingAir-conditioningCompetition modificationCooling facilitiesMonitoringPlus, David makes weather predictions and suggestions for the teams out in Paris.
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Motivation, energy and flow with Dr Gillian Tabor

🐴 Can Horses Experience "Flow" During Training? 🤔
Ever wondered if we could make rehab and training more enjoyable for our equine partners?
Research by Hintze & Yee (2022) asks: "Can we provide animals with the same access to a sense of enjoyment that we as humans value so much?"
🔑 Key Points:
Effective rehab/training requires intensity for adaptationWhat if horses could be happy increasing effort?Could horses experience a 'flow state' during work?Dr Giliian Tabor has been diving into human psychological theories of motivation, particularly Self-determination theory by Ryan and Deci...
Surfaces for ALL - Dr David Marlin interviews Vet Mark Lucey

Mark Lucey has a 40-year career as a vet, including officiating at the Olympic Games and working as an eventing team vet, and is a former partner at Bourton Vale Equine Clinic in Gloucestershire. David and Mark have worked together for many years, and in this relaxed interview, they discuss why the surfaces our horses runs on are so important and why this is important for ALL horses and not just the top-level competitors.
In this interview, David and Mark discuss:
Their history together and Mark's busy career as a leading Racing a...Dr Gillian Tabor reports on the latest Equiband Pro Research

Equiband Pro Research - Latest Update
Dr Gillian Tabor reviews a recently published paper on the effects of the Equiband Pro system on gait symmetry in horses at trot.
The papers discussed are:
Pfau, T., Simons, V., Rombach, N., Stubbs, N. and Weller, R., 2017. Effect of a 4‐week elastic resistance band training regimen on back kinematics in horses trotting in‐hand and on the lunge. Equine veterinary journal, 49(6), pp.829-835.Ellis, K.L. and King, M.R., 2020. Relationship between postural stability and paraspinal muscle adaptation in lame horses undergoing rehabilitation. Journal of Equine...Interview with Equine Thermographer - Helen Reynolds

A relaxed chat with Helen Reynolds, who is one of the world's leading equine thermographers, BUT there is so much more to Helen than even we realised!
Hear about Helen's life with horses, what thermography is, and how it has become a crucial diagnostic tool. PLUS we chat about Helen's work with 'Hot Horses', thermo imaging at the Tokyo Olympics and what her role as Heat Mitigation Officer at the upcoming Paris Olympics entails!
Helen is one of very few veterinary team members attending from the UK and she will be updating us...
Interview with Super Groom - Emma Cornish

This is a light and fun interview with Groom Of The Year Emma Cornish to discuss her career, feelings towards the industry and her exciting role at the upcoming Paris Olympics!
Emma will be one of the very few veterinary team members coming from the UK. In her official role as Forge Manager, Emma explains more about how she will assist all teams and ground crews on site for the duration of the Olympics and Paralympics in Paris. PLUS Emma is also on the Cooling Team, and along with Dr Helen Reynolds, she will be looking...
Dr David Marlin interviews Emma Davies on Rider Sleep

Emma Davies is a Senior Lecturer (Rider Performance) at Hartbury University about Rider Sleep.
Dr David Marlin and Emma discuss rider performance and the important role of sleep!
Discussing previous studies and development of studies for ridersSafety - are you considering the safety aspect of getting enough sleepPerformance - how does sleep decrease and improve performance?Decision-making - sleep can greatly affect this.Emotions escalated by lack of sleep - how can your body portray these and influence you and your horseHow and why does our equine sport (and lifestyle) create more challenges for a...Dr Gillian Tabor talks to Nikki Routledge McTimoney, Animal Chiropractor

Dr Gillian Tabor talks to Nikki Routledge, who is a fellow animal musculoskeletal practitioner but not a physio this time!
Nikki holds an MSc in Animal Manipulation and a Master's in Veterinary Chiropractic. They discuss the history of McTimoney Chiropractic, how she trained, how she works and how to get into the profession.
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Dr Gillian Tabor interviews Canine Physio Tom Day

In this fasinating chat between two animal physiotherapists, Dr Gillian Tabor and Canine physio Tom Daly, discuss the many similarities and differences in treating horses and dogs.
Tom discusses his passion for helping dogs, the powers of water therapy for dogs
In a typical day, Tom would treat dogs that have:
Joint issues - such as arthritis, hip or elbow displacerCruciate issues in need of supportNeurological - inc discs and back issuesWith osteoporosis - how can a physio help make a dog more comfortable in their day-to-day...