This week’s podcast emphasizes the significance of recognizing and managing toxic plants to prevent equine fatalities. Dr. Chris Mortensen shares a heartbreaking story of a seven-year-old Arabian gelding that died from ingesting oleander, highlighting the vital need for horse owners to identify toxic plants in their horses' environments.

Dr. Mortensen discusses resources and strategies for detecting, removing, and preventing toxic plant exposure, including utilizing the iNaturalist app for plant identification, engaging local officials or extension services for property inspections, and the importance of pasture management and proper feeding to discourage horses from ingesting harmful plants. The podcast aims to equip horse owners with the knowledge to protect their horses from plant toxicity, which is cited as a significant cause of death in horses worldwide. Dr. Mortensen underscores the podcast's mission of offering valuable educational content to improve equine health and welfare globally.

Resources

ASPCA Toxic & Non-Toxic Plants List HERE

Website on iNaturalist app for identification HERE

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome and Gratitude: Engaging the Horse Enthusiast Community

00:38 The Dangers of Oleander: A Cautionary Tale for Horse Owners

05:01 Meet Dr. Chris Mortensen: An Introduction to Our Equine Expert

05:18 Understanding Plant Toxicity: The Serious Risks to Horses

06:06 Identifying Toxic Plants: Tools and Resources for Horse Owners

06:51 The Global Impact of Plant Toxicity on Horses

15:02 Why Horses Eat Toxic Plants: Exploring the Reasons Behind the Risk

21:21 Identifying and Managing Toxic Plants: Practical Advice for Horse Owners

27:21 Unlocking Plant Identification with Technology

27:39 Harnessing iNaturalist for Plant and Animal Identification

28:23 Practical Demonstration: Identifying a Toxic Plant

30:43 Understanding Plant Toxicity and Its Impact on Horses

32:32 Symptoms of Toxicity in Horses: What to Watch For

36:27 Strategies for Managing Toxic Plant Risks

40:38 Pasture Management and Preventive Measures

45:44 Concluding Thoughts and Resources

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 shares his experiences and insights on recognizing equine emergencies, the life of an equine veterinarian, and the importance of telemedicine in equine care.

Dr. Mortensen recounts a personal story about his horse, Buck, who came up lame one evening, prompting him to reflect on whether to call his veterinarian after hours. Through his narrative, he discusses a typical busy day in an equine vet's life, the challenges they face, and the reasons behind the declining number of equine veterinarians. He emphasizes the critical role of forming a relationship with your vet and knowing when and how to contact them in case of an emergency.

In the podcast, Dr. Mortensen also provides guidance on assessing a horse's condition, what's considered an emergency, and the evolving field of telemedicine. The episode highlights the importance of understanding your horse's normal behavior and vital signs, being prepared for emergencies, and always expressing gratitude towards veterinarians.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 A Veterinarian's Long Day: Insights and Experiences

04:24 The Challenges of Being an Equine Veterinarian

05:35 Understanding Equine Emergencies: When to Call Your Vet

06:33 Building a Relationship with Your Veterinarian

08:53 Evaluating Your Horse's Health: Behavior and Vital Signs

21:19 Identifying and Responding to Equine Emergencies

28:00 A Personal Story of Equine Care: The Case of Buck

29:05 Understanding Equine Emergencies: When to Call the Vet

30:40 Practical Tips for Handling Injured or Distressed Horses

32:59 Identifying and Responding to Equine Health Emergencies

34:33 Navigating Non-Emergency Equine Health Concerns

37:46 The Outcome for Buck and Lessons Learned

39:20 Exploring Telemedicine in Equine Care

46:05 Global Perspectives and Legalities of Equine Telemedicine

47:30 Emergency Preparedness: What to Have in Your Barn

51:05 Concluding Thoughts and Encouragement

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

This podcast focuses on the importance of emergency management planning for horse owners, delving into personal experiences and expert advice to prepare for natural disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, and floods.

Dr. Chris Mortensen, an equine educator and scientist, shares insights from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and Rita, emphasizing the need for preparedness. He offers practical steps for developing an emergency management plan, including risk assessment, deciding whether to evacuate or not, preparing your horse for evacuation, and protecting your property.

Dr. Mortensen highlights the significance of having a plan for both before and after a disaster strikes, ensuring the safety of horses and horse owners alike. The podcast aims to equip listeners with the knowledge and tools to mitigate risks and enhance resilience against natural disasters, urging them to share the information and foster a community of prepared and informed horse owners.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction to Emergency Management for Horse Owners

00:52 Personal Experiences with Natural Disasters

03:33 The Importance of Emergency Management Planning

05:41 Comprehensive Guide to Preparing for Natural Disasters

13:10 Identifying Risks and Developing an Emergency Plan

19:06 Evacuation Strategies and Practical Tips

24:21 The Criticality of Planning Ahead

28:00 The Importance of Evacuation and Horse Preparedness

28:30 Critical Horse Evacuation Tips: Trailer Loading and Vaccinations

31:51 Non-Evacuation Strategies and Property Protection

33:03 Deciding Between Barn or Pasture During Disasters

44:20 Post-Disaster Safety and Recovery

48:14 Building a Comprehensive Disaster Plan

50:52 Sharing and Reflecting on Emergency Management Plans

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

This episode delves into the fascinating history and science behind horse transportation, exploring how equine transport has evolved from ancient times to the present day. It begins with a captivating story to draw listeners into the topic before transitioning to a comprehensive exploration of horse transportation methods, including trailering and air travel.

Dr. Mortensen covers various aspects such as the stress horses experience during travel, international transport regulations, and the costs associated with flying horses for competitions like the Olympics. Practical advice on trailering horses safely and ensuring their well-being during transport is also provided. Enriched with scientific studies and personal anecdotes, this podcast offers a deep dive into the logistics, welfare considerations, and historical context of moving horses across the globe.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction: How to Help Horses

00:47 A Tale of Adventure

07:46 From Fiction to Reality: The Journey of Horse Transportation

14:51 Historical Perspectives on Horse Transportation

20:46 Modern Horse Transport: Trailers, Airplanes, and Beyond

25:14 The Importance of Trailer Training for Horse Safety

29:57 The Logistics of Transporting Horses to Tokyo

30:40 Understanding Transportation Laws for Horses

32:10 The Process of Flying Horses Internationally

33:20 Pre-Flight Preparations and Quarantine Protocols

35:35 During the Flight: Managing Horse Stress and Care

36:26 Post-Flight Care and Quarantine for Horses

37:06 Costs and Considerations for Horse Transportation

38:19 Impact of Transport on Horses: Studies and Observations

38:53 Road Transport Stress on Horses

43:26 Transport's Effect on Sport Horses' Performance

45:07 Air Transport: Stress Levels and Adaptation

46:40 Trailering Stress and Diagnostic Testing for Horses

48:29 Essential Horse Trailering Tips

53:16 Concluding Thoughts on Horse Transportation

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

This podcast, hosted by Dr. Chris Mortensen, takes an in-depth look at horse nutrition and its pivotal role in maintaining the health and happiness of both horses and their owners.

This episode extensively covers the complexities of feeding horses, ways to analyze and optimize diets for better health outcomes, and strategies to reduce feed-related expenses. The dialogue emphasizes the significance of consulting with equine nutritionists to tailor diets specific to individual horse needs, addressing common dietary deficiencies and the rising concerns around horse obesity.

Additionally, this week’s podcast explores the economic aspects of horsekeeping, offering advice on making cost-effective nutrition choices amidst inflation and rising feed costs. The podcast wraps up with an announcement about a forthcoming free online introduction course on nutrition and calls for listener engagement through reviews and social media shares.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome to Our Equine Nutrition Journey

01:34 A Personal Story: The Impact of Proper Nutrition

04:19 Introducing Dr. Chris Mortenson: Equine Nutrition Expert

04:32 The Basics of Horse Diets and Nutritional Needs

05:18 Understanding Costs and Dietary Advice

07:15 The Science Behind Horse Nutrition

12:37 Addressing Common Nutritional Deficiencies

22:22 Practical Tips and Tools for Horse Owners

43:25 Looking Ahead: Free Nutrition Courses and Community Engagement

46:39 Gratitude and Encouragement for Engagement

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 explores the concept of horse personalities, sparked by a listener's request and recent debates over anthropomorphism. Dr. Mortensen shares personal anecdotes, particularly about a horse named Brasco, to illustrate the intelligence and personality traits of horses.

Dr. Mortensen delves into the anthropomorphic critique, clarifying the importance of acknowledging animal cognition and emotions. The podcast further examines scientific studies and personality questionnaires that categorize horse personalities into different types, such as dominance, anxiousness, and sociability, highlighting breed differences and implications on welfare and management.

Dr. Mortensen emphasizes the complexity of horse personalities and their impact on veterinary care, advocating for respectful and informed horse management while providing resources for listeners to evaluate their horses' personalities.

00:00 Opening Gratitude and Introduction to Today's Theme

00:27 Exploring Horse Personalities: A Response to Criticism

04:58 Meet Dr. Chris Mortensen: An Equine Scientist's Perspective

05:02 The Science of Horse Personalities and Anthropomorphism

08:05 Understanding Animal Cognition and Sentience

14:40 Nature vs. Nurture: The Genetics and Environment of Horse Personalities

16:38 Breed Differences in Horses: Hot, Cold, and Warm Bloods

23:28 Diving into Horse Personality Types

26:58 Exploring Horse Personality Traits and Breed Characteristics

27:57 The Role of Genetics in Horse Behavior

28:28 Understanding Horse Anxiety and Excitability Across Breeds

29:22 Protection, Sociability, and Inquisitiveness in Horses

30:46 Addressing Anthropomorphism in Animal Behavior Studies

32:46 Diving Into the Equine Personality Questionnaire

42:58 Linking Horse Personalities to Pain Management and Veterinary Care

49:07 The Importance of Recognizing Individuality in Horses

50:35 Closing Remarks and Encouragement for Horse Lovers

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

Dr. Chris Mortensen discusses the factors contributing to the longevity of horses and shares strategies for extending their lives. The episode begins with a tribute to Rosie, an American quarter horse who lived to 36, showcasing the potential for horses to live well past their expected lifespan with proper care.

Dr. Mortensen addresses the advancements in equine healthcare, nutrition, and management that have increased horses' lifespan from historical norms. He explores the current life expectancy of domestic and wild horses, the impact of breed on longevity, and the remarkable story of Old Billy, a horse that lived to 62.

The podcast emphasizes the importance of diet, exercise, dental care, hoof care, regular vet exams, stress reduction, and management of conditions like arthritis and PPID (Cushing's Disease) in supporting the health and longevity of horses. Dr. Mortensen also discusses new research on aging, including telomere regulation, and concludes with acknowledgments and encouragement for equine caregivers.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Welcome and the Impact of Sharing Equine Stories

00:22 The Life and Legacy of Scotch Time Rose (Rosie)

4:27 Introducing Dr. Chris Mortensen: Equine Scientist and Educator

05:25 The Remarkable Longevity of Horses: Insights and Statistics

14:32 Old Billy: The Horse That Lived to 62

21:21 Managing Geriatric Horses: Challenges and Solutions

28:33 Unlocking the Secrets of Equine Nutrition

31:02 The Obesity Epidemic in Horses: A Growing Concern

34:41 The Importance of Dental Care for Horses

37:02 Comprehensive Health Care: From Hoof to Vaccination

38:52 Stress and Its Impact on Equine Health

40:50 Exploring the Science of Aging in Horses

44:39 Understanding and Managing Cushing's Disease in Horses

47:31 Welfare and Stress Reduction: Keys to Longevity

51:09 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

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 week’s podcast, Dr. Mortensen highlights broader concerns about the welfare and ethical treatment of horses in competitive sports. He mentions how the equine industry is under greater scrutiny. Dr. Mortensen also reflects on his experience at the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) meeting in 2024, he discusses public perception, the scrutiny of horse sports, and the changing landscape of equine welfare.

At the ISES conference, topics included the use of whips, bits, and nose bands, the concept of social license to operate in the equine industry, and the evolving standards of horse care and retirement.

Dr. Mortensen stresses the importance of industry introspection and adaptation to ensure the best possible lives for horses while maintaining public support for equestrian sports.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 The Emotional Tale of Barbaro: A Champion's Journey

04:34 Introducing Dr. Chris Mortensen: The Voice Behind theStory

05:32 The Impact of Barbaro's Story on Horse Racing and Ethics

06:47 Insights from the International Symposium for Equitation Science

08:39 Exploring the Ethical Challenges in Equestrian Sports

16:57 The Future of Equestrian Sport: Changes and Challenges Ahead

42:47 Concluding Thoughts and the Path Forward

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