Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

New horse, saddle and rider study

Riders called on to help research into saddle slip

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) is conducting new research into the relationship between horse, saddle and rider to help improve the health and welfare of ridden horses.

In particular, equine vets at the trust are aiming to improve understanding of why the saddle may persistently slip to one side in some horses.

"Saddle slip is a problem seen in all sorts of horses and ponies and can contribute to back pain and thus impaired performance," says Line Greve, PhD student and co-author of the study.


"Research suggests that 25 per cent of British dressage horses have a history of back-related problems and subsequent reduced performance."
An anonymous online questionnaire has been launched and the AHT is appealing for riders to participate.


The questions cover saddle types, fitting, use and maintenance, as well as previous back-related problems, rider experience and training.


Mr Greve added: "Our preliminary studies involve just over 700 riders but for a more accurate picture we would like to bump this figure up to 1000 plus."


Results are expected to be presented at the Saddle Research Trust Conference in 2014.


Click here to complete the questionnaire.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

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  

Click here for more...
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.