Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb

What happens when some of the equestrian industry's most experienced voices come together with one shared goal: helping yard owners build stronger, more sustainable businesses?In this special episode of Stable Science, Helen Stock is joined by YardWise co-founders Amanda Watson and Cheryl Johns to lift the lid on YardWise 2026—the unique event designed specifically for livery yards, riding schools, equestrian centres, and yard managers.Following the incredible success of last year's event, YardWise returns bigger than ever, expanding to two days packed with expert guidance, practical solutions, welfare-focused insights, business support, and invaluable networking opportunities.But this isn't another conference where you're simply talked at.YardWise is built around real conversations, real challenges, and real solutions. Throughout this episode, you'll discover why so many attendees described last year's event as transformative, how the expert roundtable sessions give direct access to leading specialists, and why collaboration and community are becoming essential tools for future-proofing equestrian businesses.Whether you're struggling with rising costs, staff management, horse welfare, compliance, diversification, pasture management, marketing, contracts, risk management, or simply trying to make your business more sustainable, this episode provides a fascinating insight into the topics shaping the future of the industry.In this episode you'll discover:• Why YardWise has expanded to two days for 2026• The biggest challenges currently facing equestrian businesses• How welfare and business success go hand in hand• Why networking with fellow yard owners can be game-changing• What makes the YardWise expert roundtables so unique• The industry-leading speakers and specialists attending this year• Practical ways to improve efficiency, profitability, and long-term sustainability• How one piece of advice could transform the way you run your yardMost importantly, you'll hear why so many business owners left last year's event feeling inspired, supported, and armed with actionable ideas they could implement immediately.If you're involved in running, managing, supporting, or developing an equestrian business, this episode is packed with insights, inspiration, and expert knowledge that could make a real difference to your future success.Listen now and discover why YardWise is quickly becoming one of the most valuable events in the equestrian business calendar. Find out about YardWise at https://yardwise.co.uk/----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

PAIN – How to tell if your horse has kissing spine, gastric ulcers of arthritisHow 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.Whether you’re a horse owner, rider or equine professional, this episode is packed with insights on how horses show pain, why behaviours shouldn't be dismissed as 'naughty', and why thinking pain first could be the most important step in safeguarding your horse’s welfare.Topics include:The science of how horses perceive painAnticipatory vs actual pain behavioursOverlapping symptoms across common equine conditionsWhy girthiness isn’t always about the girthKey research from Dalla Costa, Dyson, Kumar and more----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Disease is coming!ARTICLE – Respiratory supplements for horses reviewedARTICLE – Mycotoxins – a hidden danger in your horse’s environment and feed?ARTICLE – Respiratory problems in horses: How to recognise, manage and avoid them----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 functions, including sweat wicking and improving saddle fit.Laboratory testing can provide insights into a pad's mechanical properties.Not all expensive pads perform better than reasonably priced options.User feedback is essential for understanding long-term performance of saddle pads.Saddle pads can affect saddle fit, which may not always be beneficial.It's important to consult a qualified saddle fitter when choosing a pad.Beware of marketing claims that lack scientific backing.Testing methods include static and dynamic pressure tests.Which saddle pads actually deliver on their claims? With prices ranging from £20 to over £200, it’s hard to know what really works and what’s just clever marketing. That’s why Animalweb has CUT THROUGH THE MISINFORMATION by putting them to the test under the same laboratory conditions, so you can see exactly how they compare!Saddle Pads Tested - https://askanimalweb.com/saddle-pads-tested-round-two-2025/Want to read the full results? You’ve got to be an Animalweb member! Join today for just £8 a month (cancel anytime) and get access to exclusive, in-depth testing that helps you make the best choices for your horse. The saddle pads in this round were chosen by our Animalweb members! So if you want a say in future testing, make sure you’re signed up!----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.takeawaysStirrups 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 in the saddle can be significantly higher than expected.Expensive stirrups may not offer additional benefits.Proper footwear is essential for safety while riding.Research on stirrup design is still ongoing and necessary.Alternating between sitting and standing may benefit the horse's back.----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Gillian Tabor is MSc ResM MCSP HCPCreg, a Chartered Physiotherapist, Cat A member ‘Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy and has lots of great help and advice for horse owners - check out all of her work here - Dr Gillian TaborRead the full research paper here.----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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.The study of bird flu in horses is crucial for understanding emerging infectious diseases.Horses can be exposed to avian influenza viruses, but the health implications are still unclear.Serology is an important tool for detecting past infections in horses.The mechanisms of infection in horses are still largely speculative.High contact rates between horses and infected birds increase the risk of transmission.Vaccination is essential for preventing outbreaks of equine influenza.The global spread of avian influenza is a dynamic situation that requires constant monitoring.Research collaboration is key to understanding and controlling infectious diseases.Public health messaging must be based on scientific evidence to combat misinformation.Preparedness is vital in managing potential outbreaks of diseases like bird flu.----To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A Candid Conversation with Dressage Legend Emile FaurieJoin 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 trouble," and how we can come together to support each other and the future of equestrianism.  - His definition of equine welfare, which he sees as rooted in respect for the horse, and what that truly means to him.  - The myth of money being the ultimate barrier to success in the equestrian world, and what really makes the difference.  - Practical suggestions to better support dressage stewards and riders during competitions.  - The importance of truly understanding and knowing your horse to provide them with the best care and opportunities to thrive.We’re thrilled to announce that Emile has joined the Animalweb team as an expert, bringing his wealth of knowledge and passion to help riders and the wider equestrian community.Tune in for this inspiring and thought-provoking conversation with one of dressage’s most influential figures!Emile is also offering an exciting training opportunity for our members - so log onto the website to learn more and take up the offer!emilefaurie.com -----------------------------------------To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.comNot a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.