Are today's competition horses prepared to do their job?

A recent study has suggested that many horses 'may not be sufficiently prepared for competition in line with the FEI code of conduct guidelines.'

Justine Harrison | Equine Behaviourist3 March 2016Equestrian Competition, Equine Stress, FEI, Equine Welfare, Equine Training, Young Horses

Is your horse a he, she or it?

Watching equestrian sports on television the commentary could lead you to believe the competitors are riding machines. More often than not a horse is referred to as ‘it’.

Justine Harrison | Equine Behaviourist21 December 2015Equestrian Competition, Labelling Horses, Anthropomorphism, Equine Emotions, Gender Labels

Are nosebands too readily used as a schooling shortcut?

A horse demonstrating an unusual oral behaviour when ridden, such as opening his mouth or putting his tongue over the bit, has a problem with what is being asked of him or is trying to avoid pain.

Justine Harrison | Equine Behaviourist9 September 2015Equine Behaviour, Oral Behaviour, Horse Behaviour, Noseband tightness, Noseband Taper Gauge, FEI, Flash Noseband, Eventing, Dressage, Showjumping, Equestrian Competition, Artificial Aids, ISES, International Society for Equitation Science

A happy athlete or a welfare issue?

This performance scored 79.629% and took 4th place yesterday in the Grand Prix Special at the World Equestrian Games. Who is judging the judges?

Justine Harrison | Equine Behaviourist28 August 2014Equine Welfare, Dressage, Spurs, Equestrian Competition, Noseband Tightness