New perspectives: Technology in equestrian sports
Animal health companies are increasingly adopting and developing digital technologies to monitor the health of pets and livestock. The equestrian world is no exception. The World Equestrian Festival, CHIO Aachen, provided the perfect venue to host thought-provoking discussions about the current and future use of digital technology in equestrian sport. Together with equine experts, including top riders, we examined the influence of innovation in this space on the health, performance, and management of the equine athlete.
Wearables for horses?
The veterinary sector is witnessing an inundation of new digital technologies. When it comes to equine health, there is a need for validated approaches of consistently and regularly tracking health parameters such as temperature, heart rate and respiratory rates. These may be similar to the function of basic wearables used by human athletes. The data gathered by these tools would give an earlier indication of issues which may require veterinary investigation. They would also provide a more quantitative and objective measure of the horses’ fitness to ultimately
help optimize their training programs. Among ideas specifically mentioned at the event were remote training apps for riders as well as the use of “hawk-eye” like technology to improve objectivity in dressage judging.
Detecting health issues earlier than ever
“I was pleased to take part in such a valuable discussion on the importance of technology in the equine sector. New technology is already being used by riders, but we are trying to work out the best technology, both in terms of its accuracy and true application. However, I am excited that there is an appetite to improve the way we train, manage and care for horses,” shared Liz Barrett, Head of Equine, Global Strategic Marketing, Boehringer Ingelheim. “Issues in horses can often be significantly advanced before obvious clinical signs or a dip in performance are evident and technology has an important role to play in the future to prompt earlier intervention.”
New insights into the human-horse relationship
Technology is not only being used to assess health issues, or to optimize training and management of horses. Heart rate monitors and recording devices were used in a recent study1 in Sweden which investigated the human-horse relationship from the horse’s perspective by monitoring the reaction of horses in a separation-reunion experiment involving their owners and a stranger. The study revealed that at least two features of attachment (out of four), namely separation-related distress and safe heaven, so relief from stress due to the comfort and support provided by the person, was reflected in heart rates.
“Speaking as a horse owner myself, I can confirm that the human-horse bond is very strong and based on a mutual respect and affection. Technology, if complementary to this special relationship, will help us develop a deeper understanding of our horses, their needs, and health status. Ultimately this will contribute to the improved care and welfare of these wonderful animals,” concludes Liz.
The global leader in equine health
Boehringer Ingelheim are the global leaders in equine health and have been developing solutions for the well-being of horses around the world for over 100 years. Taking pride in the history of being a trusted partner to horse enthusiasts across the globe, we are interested in furthering the application of equine digital innovation and technology to improve the lives of horses and the people who love them.
If you share this vision and are active in this space, potential collaborators can connect with us through our dedicated partnering portal under the following link: Submit Your Proposal Animal Health| boehringer-ingelheim.com
References:
1 Lundberg, P., Hartmann, E. and Roth, L.S., 2020. Does training style affect the human-horse relationship? Asking the horse in a separation–reunion experiment with the owner and a stranger. Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 233, p.105144.
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