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Behavioural study seeks to improve racehorse welfare
Behavioural indicators used could include facial expression, ear posture or muscle tension.

Researchers to develop method of judging equine mood.

The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies has announced a new study to improve the welfare of racehorses.

Funded by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Equine Welfare Research Foundation, the project seeks to develop a system for judging the emotional state and preferences of horses, using subtle changes in behaviour to decipher this. 

The system will be based on experimental studies of horse behaviour, and consultations will be held with riders and stable workers, among others, working in the racehorse industry.

Professor Cathy Dwyer, from the veterinary school, commented: “Body language in horses can be a clear way to understand their emotional state. 

“Using sophisticated and detailed measures of these behavioural responses may allow us to interpret the animal’s mood, and give us an insight into their welfare.”

Alongside collaborators from Scotland's Rural College (SRUC), researchers will consult those working in the racehorse industry to gain an understanding of how welfare is viewed within the industry, and what indicators are currently used to judge equine mood.

Observational studies will also be undertaken, looking at racehorses in their average daily routines to inform robust and objective measures to assess the horses under a range of conditions.

This will allow for reliable decisions to be made regarding welfare, rather than using subjective opinions to make judgement calls.

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Defra shares new Sanitary and Phytosanitary guidance

News Story 1
 Defra has published guidance for the vet sector ahead of a proposed UK-EU Sanitary and Phytosanitary agreement.

The agreement, which will change the movement and trade of animals and related products, could see reductions in checks, paperwork and certification. As well as describing regulatory developments, the advice highlights the importance of animal ID, registration and traceability in disease control and other compliance arrangements.

The guidance can be found here. More detail is expected as negotiations progress. 

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News Shorts
Lords Committee opens Pet Parasite Medication inquiry

The House of Lords Environment and Climate Change Committee will launch its inquiry into Pet Parasite Medication (PPM) on Wednesday (3 June).

Focusing on treatments containing fipronil and imidacloprid, the inquiry will seek to understand distribution pathways and the impacts of PPM use and non-use on biodiversity and human health. It will also cover current regulation, monitoring, and the potential implications for pets and their owners.

The committee will hear evidence from environmental non-governmental organisations and research institutes. The public can follow the proceedings live on Parliament TV or in person in the Palace of Westminster.