Equine welfare at riding

Whether animal welfare could be increased in equitation (dressage) is currently under debate. Low- and high-level equitation can likely be performed with more respect for horse welfare, seen as less conflict behaviours as well as better equine orthopaedic health in the long run. In order for elucidation of key elements we want to define collection of the horse in anatomical terms and relative to harmony, and regarding behavioural features. High-level horses shall be measured with electromyography, rein tension and biomechanics, and evaluated for behaviours (ethograms). The films will be shown to trainers (with various riding strategies) for evaluation of the collection achieved. All results will be analysed and especially put in relation to the behaviour of the horses in order to give guidelines for less harsh riding methods. It is likely that proportionately more riders will be able to achieve harmonic riding with gentler methods- a benefit also to human welfare.

Financier: Formas
Co-applicant: Marie Rhodin Anna Byström
Collaborator: Lars Roepstorff Marie Eisersiö