In this episode, we delves into the captivating journeys of some of the most celebrated female equestrian champions, highlighting their extraordinary achievements and overcoming of barriers.

Dr. Mortensen invites guest Dr. Emily Gilbert, a regenerative neurobiologist and equestrian enthusiast, who shares insights on Team Canada's preparations and the logistical challenges faced by equestrian teams from around the world. Dr. Mortensen also discusses the preparation and training involved for equestrian athletes and their horses as they gear up for the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics.

The history of equestrian events in the Olympics is reviewed, along with the role of various horse breeds in these competitions. The episode wraps up by looking at the mental and physical preparations necessary for becoming an Olympic champion.

00:00 Breaking Barriers: Women in Equestrian Olympics

04:21 Preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics

06:10 The History of Equestrian Sports in the Olympics

09:09 Olympic Equestrian Events: Schedule and Highlights

11:15 Training and Selection of Olympic Horses and Riders

14:51 Breeds and Bloodlines of Olympic Champions

20:39 Logistics and Challenges of Competing Internationally

27:52 Mental Preparation for Olympic Athletes

38:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

---------------------------------

Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

In this episode, Dr. Chris Mortensen, discusses the early stages of horse pregnancy and the effects of exercise and heat stress on equine fertility. He explains how critical the initial stages of embryo development are and how stressors can lead to the failure of pregnancy.

Dr. Mortenson recounts his dissertation work and subsequent studies on the topic, highlighting the physiological mechanisms behind these stressors and their impact on the reproductive cycle. He also delves into the ethics and challenges of conducting such research while ensuring animal welfare. The episode concludes with a look at male fertility under similar conditions and a touching story of the Dutch cohort study, emphasizing the importance of proper maternal care during pregnancy.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 The Beginning of a Horse's Life

01:27 Critical Early Stages of Pregnancy

04:02 Exercise and Stress Impact on Reproduction

05:41 Genesis of the Research

06:58 Heat Stress and Embryo Transfer

10:08 Research Methodology and Findings

24:34 Impact on Estrous Cycle and Embryo Quality

28:47 Follow-Up Studies and Broader Implications

34:03 Male Reproductive Health

36:13 Pregnancy and Nutritional Needs

42:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

---------------------------------

Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

⁠YouTube⁠⁠ @madbarn ⁠⁠

We would love to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to ⁠podcast@madbarn.com

In this episode, Dr. Chris Mortensen delves into the critical topic of heat stress in horses.

Highlighting his extensive research and experiences from Texas, South Carolina, Florida, and beyond, Dr. Mortensen explains the physiological mechanisms behind heat accumulation and dissipation in horses.

He debunks common myths, such as the danger of giving cold water to hot horses, and offers practical advice on recognizing signs of heat stress and strategies for cooling horses effectively. The discussion includes comparisons with other animals like donkeys, the impact of heat on horse reproduction, the importance of acclimation, and the necessity of providing shade and electrolytes.

Referencing several key studies, Dr. Mortensen provides a comprehensive guide to understanding and managing heat stress in horses, emphasizing the increasing relevance of this issue in today's changing climate.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome and Introduction: The Importance of Subscribing

00:30 Heat Stress in Horses: A Personal Journey

03:02 Understanding Heat Stress: From Symptoms to Solutions

03:34 Dr. Mortensen's Expertise and Research on Heat Stress

05:59 Busting Myths About Horses and Heat

10:11 Comparing Horses and Donkeys: Adaptations to Heat

14:51 Recognizing and Managing Heat Stress in Horses

18:24 The Science of Heat Accumulation and Dissipation

25:16 Sweating: The Horse's Natural Cooling Mechanism

26:40 The Science of Horse Sweat and Cooling Mechanisms

27:13 Understanding Horse Sweat: Types and Functions

39:28 The Role of Hydration in Horse Health and Performance

41:26 Age and Its Impact on Horses' Thermoregulation

43:20 Effective Strategies for Managing Heat Stress in Horses

51:25 Concluding Remarks on Horse Care and Upcoming Topics

Visit https://madbarn.com/mad-about-horses/ to learn more about the Mad About Horses podcast.

---------------------------------

Mad Barn Academy is dedicated to supporting horse owners, handlers and practitioners through research, training and education.

Visit us to learn more at ⁠⁠https://madbarn.com ⁠⁠

You can also find Mad Barn at: ⁠

Instagram ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠ ⁠⁠

Facebook ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

TikTok ⁠⁠@madbarnequine⁠⁠

⁠YouTube⁠⁠ @madbarn ⁠⁠

We would love to hear from you! Please send any questions or comments to ⁠podcast@madbarn.com