Conversations in Equine Science

Nancy McLean

Kate Acton (from Ireland) and Nancy McLean (from the USA) discuss equine research projects and studies to help bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general community of horse owners, trainers and enthusiasts.

  1. 7 MAR

    Horse Brain Science: Rethinking Training with Neuroscience

    This episode introduces equine neurobiology through the work of Dr. Stephen Peters, explaining core concepts like neurons, neurotransmitters, neuroplasticity, and how sensory processing affects learning and behavior. It shows how applying neuroscience can reduce stress, build trust, and improve training and welfare, and previews a follow-up episode on brain anatomy.

    16 min

  2. 20 ENE

    Equine Hoof Trim Research

    In this episode Nancy talks about using a grinder for hoof trimming. Ida Hammer teaches online and in person Hoofcare classes. Check her website out at www.mackinawdells2.com

    19 min

  3. 7 ENE

    Trust the Horse: Study Shows Horses Decide When to Wear Blankets

    This episode reviews a 2019 study where 23 horses were trained to use symbols to indicate whether they wanted a blanket put on, left on, or removed. Researchers tested horse choices across a range of temperatures, wind, rain, and seasons to see how weather and individual factors influenced blanket preference. Key findings: horses overwhelmingly chose blankets at very low temperatures (below −10°C/14°F) and tended to reject blankets above about 10°C/50°F, with most preferring no blanket around 20°C/68°F. Wind, precipitation, clipping, age, and individual variation also affected choices. The episode emphasizes observing each horse and adjusting blanketing to weather and the horse’s needs.

    29 min

  4. 23/12/2025

    Steroids and Insulin: The Hidden Trigger of Catastrophic Laminitis

    In this episode Nancy McLean checks into recent equine herpes cases and focuses on new research linking corticosteroid (triamcinolone) joint injections to insulin spikes and severe laminitis. They review the case of Fiona, a competitive mare who developed fatal laminitis after sacroiliac injections, and summarize ongoing studies at NC State funded by the Chromatic Fund. The researchers are comparing single high-dose versus repeated low-dose steroid protocols, finding undiagnosed insulin dysregulation in many sport horses and recommending insulin testing before steroid treatments. The clinical study is expected to conclude by spring 2026.

    15 min

  5. 24/11/2025

    EHV-1 Outbreak Explained: Symptoms, Risks, and What Horse Owners Should Do

    This episode breaks down the current EHV-1 (EHM) outbreak in the U.S., covering clinical signs, transmission, and incubation periods. Listeners will learn about vaccine limitations, why quarantine and low-stress management matter, and practical biosecurity measures—cleaning, disinfectants (70% alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, chlorhexidine), and when to avoid bleach on dirty surfaces. Advice emphasizes keeping horses home when possible, monitoring for fever and limb swelling, and consulting your veterinarian for case-specific guidance.

    16 min
  6. Knowing When to Let Go: Owners, Vets, and Pain in Aging Horses

    18/10/2025

    Knowing When to Let Go: Owners, Vets, and Pain in Aging Horses

    Hosts Nancy McLean and Kate Acton discuss a 2025 study on how owner–veterinarian interactions affect recognition and management of pain in horses, using owners’ stories and vets’ perspectives to highlight subtle behavioral signs and practical decisions. The episode emphasizes the importance of knowing each horse’s normal behavior, keeping compassionate communication open with veterinary teams, planning for aging horses, and making welfare-focused choices. Research Link: https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/animal-welfare/article/owners-everyday-interactions-with-their-horse-painrelated-issues-and-those-of-veterinary-concern/8709217EEB13EFA934E783A03204E973?utm_campaign=shareaholic&utm_medium=email_this&utm_source=email

    32 min

  7. 15/08/2025

    Episode 201 Part 2 of Identifying Effective States of Horses

    Nancy and Kate conclude their discussion on the current research and the Flying Lead Change book by Kelly Wendorf. Sign up for the Kelly Wendorf clinic at the InStride episode page link.

    24 min

  8. 08/08/2025

    Identifying affective states of horses.

    Nancy and Kate discuss identifying and measuring the emotional states of horses. Link to research: https://doi.org/10.1093/tas/txaf033 Book by Kelly Wendorf: Flying Lead Change. Instride Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/in-stride/id1602148957

    22 min
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Kate Acton (from Ireland) and Nancy McLean (from the USA) discuss equine research projects and studies to help bridge the gap between the scientific community and the general community of horse owners, trainers and enthusiasts.

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