Beyond Traditional Vet Nursing: Exploring Equine Therapy Research with Kristina Naden, RVN BVN

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In this interesting episode of Veterinary Voices, Julie South catches up again with Khristina Naden, Senior Lecturer in Veterinary Nursing at Otago Polytech, where she demonstrates how a veterinary nursing qualification can evolve into ground-breaking research. 

As Kristina shares insights from her Masters research (hopefully to be upgraded to PhD research) into therapeutic horse riding, you're are treated to a super interesting blend of scientific methodology and practical experience that bridges the gap between animal care and human therapy.

In episodes 205 and 206 Kristina's shared her non-traditional entry into veterinary nursing.   Today she expands on that to share how it's possible to expand and morph traditional veterinary nursing.  

Kristina talks about conducting international research which showcases the expanding horizons available within the veterinary nursing profession. 

Her recent presentation at a conference in Budapest highlights how veterinary expertise can contribute to broader therapeutic applications, from improving physical mobility to enhancing speech and language development in patients.

She also chats about how she was invited to present her veterinary research at a medical (human) conference; where a brief case of Imposter Syndrome kicked in.

Key Takeaways:

1. Veterinary nursing qualifications can lead to diverse career paths, including academic research and specialised therapy programs
2. The horse-human connection is deeply nuanced, with horses serving as sensitive indicators of human mental states - a finding that has implications for both therapeutic and recreational riding

This episode is particularly valuable for veterinary professionals considering career advancement, those interested in animal-assisted therapy, and anyone fascinated by the scientific understanding of horse-human interactions. 

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