Conversations in Equine Science

SGLT2i Therapy for Horses

This episode reviews cases of steroid-induced laminitis and examines recent research and owner-reported experiences using SGLT2 inhibitors (most commonly ertugliflozin) as an off-label treatment for equine metabolic syndrome and hyperinsulinemia-associated laminitis. An online survey of 342 owners found most horses treated with SGLT2Is showed improved quality of life and reduced pain, with many horses spared from euthanasia; common initial side effects included increased drinking and urination, weight loss, and dullness, which were often dose-dependent or resolved over time. Key takeaways: SGLT2Is show promise as a rescue option for laminitis when combined with strict dietary management and good hoof care, but long-term safety, availability, cost, and further research remain important considerations. Research https://beva.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/eve.14071 https://scholar.google.com/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C14&as_vis=1&q=sundra+et+al+2025+Horseowner&btnG=#d=gs_qabs&t=1787417730062&u=%23p%3DSFYkeG9TZt4J Humble Hoof Podcast Episode https://open.spotify.com/episode/4CvEegebGNduL7hNJDAlFc?si=UWRrM3TuRJuXyg0Rxx_vSA&utm_source=copy-link

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Steroid Use and Insulin Dysregulation in Horses.

Updates on preliminary research findings on steroid use and insulin deregulation in horses.

Do Horses Get Headaches?

This episode explores whether horses can experience headaches by examining cervical spine pain, common signs like head rubbing or altered carriage, and how musculoskeletal and nervous system issues contribute to discomfort. Nancy reviews diagnostic options, treatment and rehabilitation strategies, and the need for improved imaging and physiotherapy to restore performance and well-being. Research Link: https://www.mdpi.com/2076-2615/11/2/422

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Why My Gelding Chews the Reins: The Cortisol Connection

In this episode Nancy McLean answers listener emails about geldings that chew lead ropes and reins, she explains how cortisol and the HPA axis relate to stress-driven behaviors, and describes how consistent training, handler calmness, routines, turnout, and nutrition can help horses down-regulate stress. The episode also summarizes research on cortisol sampling methods (plasma, saliva, hair) for short- and long-term stress assessment, and closes with a brief update on a new world screwworm outbreak, what has been done historically to eradicate it, and practical steps owners should take if they suspect infestation. Research: https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0472/13/12/2219 https://assets.cureus.com/uploads/review_article/pdf/413141/20251106-69309-xadaoe.pdf

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Get Back On: The Neuroscience of Remounting After a Fall

In this episode Nancy McLean explores a listener question about whether to remount after a fall, using Dr. Stephen Peters’ research and a review by McBride et al. to explain how equine learning, myelination, and long-term potentiation shape behavior. Nancy explains how automaticity, basal ganglia consolidation, and dopamine-driven rewards can help overwrite fearful responses, and she shares a real-life example of calmly remounting to reinforce positive patterns. Key takeaway: when horse and rider are uninjured, a calm remount and rewarded repetition can help redirect the horse’s neural pathways and prevent lasting fear responses.

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The Equine Limbic System

The core of the equine brain’s emotional center, Nancy describes how the neurological processes of the limbic system take place. She also highlights the reward prediction error (RPE) and the impact it has on equine learning.

Horse Brain Science - Part 3

This is a continuation of our study on Equine Neurology and Ethical Horse Training and Management.

Inside the Horse Brain: How Equine Minds Think, Feel, and React

In this episode Nancy McLean explores Dr. Stephen Peters' book Horse Brain Science, comparing human and equine brain anatomy and function. She explains brain size and cortical folding, then walks through the four main lobes (frontal, parietal, temporal, occipital), the amygdala and hippocampus, and the brainstem. The episode connects these brain differences to horse behavior and training—why punishment fails, how pressure and removal or positive rewards work, and how understanding sensory processing, memory, and fear responses can improve ethical horsemanship.

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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.

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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

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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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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.

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

Unlocking the Secrets of Sarcopenia in Senior Horses

In this episode of Conversations in Equine Science, Kate and Nancy explore a compelling research paper titled "Retirement Risk Factors, Exercise Management, and Muscle Mass in U.S. Senior Horses" by Elisa Herbst. Published in May 2023, this paper dives into the intricacies of managing the health and exercise of senior horses in the U.S., examining factors such as retirement risk, exercise routines, and muscle mass preservation. The hosts discuss key insights from an extensive survey involving over 2,700 respondents, highlighting the distinctions between equine professionals and hobby horse owners. They delve into the challenges faced by senior horses, such as sarcopenia and exercise management, drawing parallels with aging in humans while emphasizing the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition for maintaining muscle mass and overall health. The episode sheds light on the significance of continued care and management as horses age, underscoring the role of dynamic mobilization exercises and hoof health in prolonging the vitality and quality of life of senior equines. Listeners are encouraged to consult with equine veterinarians and professionals before implementing changes based on this research.

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Equine research on icing the laminitic hoof.

Horseshoe effects on equine gait.

This episode Kate and Nancy discuss a scoping review of 46 research papers on the effects of horseshoe type on equine gait. Open Access Research Reference/Link: Aoun, R., Takawira, C., & Lopez, M. J. (2025). Horseshoe effects on equine gait-A systematic scoping review. Veterinary surgery : VS, 54(1), 31–51. https://doi.org/10.1111/vsu.14162

Equestrian Back pain and Stirrup Length Associations

This week Kate and Nancy discuss rider back pain and it's association with 3 different stirrup lengths and 2 rider positions. Research Reference: Keener, Michaela M.1; Critchley, Meghan L.1; Layer, Jacob S.1; Johnson, Evan C.1; Barrett, Steven F.2; Dai, Boyi1. The Effect of Stirrup Length on Impact Attenuation and Its Association With Muscle Strength. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research 35(11):p 3056-3062, November 2021. | https://journals.lww.com/nsca-jscr/fulltext/2021/11000/the_effect_of_stirrup_length_on_impact_attenuation.12.aspx