Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb

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. 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 pain * Anticipatory vs actual pain behaviours * Overlapping symptoms across common equine conditions * Why girthiness isn’t always about the girth * Key research from Dalla Costa, Dyson, Kumar and more ---- To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com [https://drdavidmarlin.com/] Not 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 [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

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 bridles. David also tackles common misconceptions about bit mechanics, explaining why the curb bit is a class one lever with a floating fulcrum, not the “nutcracker” some claim it to be. He discusses the ethics of research publishing, the importance of evidence-based conclusions, and his hopes for a more flexible and welfare-focused approach to bridle use in sport. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in equine science, dressage, and horse welfare. The study was funded by Hartpury University and the British Equestrian Federation, and the full paper is freely available online. Follow this link to read more about it - New Study Reveals Similarities in Rein Tension and Noseband Pressure Between Snaffle and Double Bridles [https://askanimalweb.com/new-study-reveals-similarities-in-rein-tension-and-noseband-pressure-between-snaffle-and-double-bridles/] ---- To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com [https://drdavidmarlin.com/] Not 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 [https://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 Issues [https://askanimalweb.com/video-spring-respiratory-issues/] * ARTICLE – Spring Associated Respiratory Disease is coming! [https://askanimalweb.com/spring-associated-respiratory-disease-is-coming-2/] * ARTICLE – Respiratory supplements for horses reviewed [https://askanimalweb.com/respiratory-supplements-for-horses-reviewed/] * ARTICLE – Mycotoxins – a hidden danger in your horse’s environment and feed? [https://askanimalweb.com/mycotoxins-a-hidden-danger-in-your-horses-environment-and-feed/] * ARTICLE – Respiratory problems in horses: How to recognise, manage and avoid them [https://askanimalweb.com/respiratory-problems-in-horses-how-to-recognise-manage-and-avoid-them/] ---- To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com [https://drdavidmarlin.com/] Not 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 [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.

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. ---- To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com [https://drdavidmarlin.com/] Not 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 [https://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/ [https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Faskanimalweb.com%2Fsaddle-pads-tested-round-two-2025%2F%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3wyBMCMzdlF7sFPltNB1ik-66rO5DkBCNvs1RYc67pDg511auFTicHmY0_aem_rs0xXe3e3j-7LZzGRN3jiQ&h=AT02KkNawRGTZddJay3O2c0ad1QeyGCEuUoS5OwE0H5t0fk-OckNE6ie_ramQg1CGIdmSFQbtEAKQcdbWZI580FQRTRUvR9ckdpAkoV5XLSE9Y6OHIim-kpz1DjCulP9XIrW4jwBeZdAv1S19QhVJ20&__tn__=-UK-R&c[0]=AT3hNuUQGzHlquHATt3oSCSsLEBqAm8b7mNotarP9Y_g2dFluob3zbF0ALEAlRq19OG0MeVSV7leVQZ3m_WHDDqOVhE5OsdlWdZmpi91tW9HqHfptpAA5oreSro_CvK8e5sSLm13LbKvuRnBcjxxR6E_6yrnqqKETuInZK-seFiifGkpVvjq71sjtFxHcs-VwRbQBsAs94Ow_sn4D6EyWL2v25ombO5olqkxxquNEsreM3MCnINkWsDDrLRZ] 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.com [https://drdavidmarlin.com/] Not 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 [https://acast.com/privacy] for more information.