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New documentary released on pain in ridden horses
The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) is a catalogue of 24 behaviours associated with pain in the ridden horse.
Online film introduces Dr Sue Dyson's research. 

A new documentary on the signs of pain in the ridden horse has been released online, featuring the research of Dr Sue Dyson.

Published on YouTube, the 35-minute film has been created by animal-based videographer Padma Video and the US-based Train with Trust Project.

'The 24 Behaviour os the Ridden Horse in Pain' explains The Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram (RHpE) – a tool developed over a three-year study to predict lameness before the condition worsens, or before other signs of injury.

Dr Dyson and Dr Jim Myers feature in the documentary, which follows the duo as they examine and diagnose show jumper Lauren McMahon's horse Galina. Though not obviously lame, Galina was becoming more resistant under saddle.

Explaining the need for the documentary, Dr Dyson said: “We are conditioned that many horse behaviours are normal, when they are not.

“We need to appreciate that what we call ‘naughty horses’ are often a reflection of underlying musculoskeletal pain.”

Dr Laurie Goodrich, director of the Orthopedic Research Center at Colorado State University’s C. Wayne McIlwraith Translational Medicine Institute, commented: “Careful and quality research performed by one of the most experienced and world-renowned clinicians and her team is getting at the heart of what horses have been trying to tell us for centuries!”

Olympic Silver medalist Mary King MBE added: Performance problems are so often blamed on the horse or rider, without consideration of the possibility of underlying discomfort. 

“The horse's behaviour may be telling us that even in the absence of overt lameness something may be wrong. 

“Early recognition of this, appropriate investigation and treatment may improve the horse's performance, welfare and enhance rideability.”

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Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

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News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.