What is Equitation Science?
Warwick McLean demonstrating at the 2nd ISES Symposium, Milan 2006. Above: habituation and overshadowing techniques with an Arabian that presented with extreme anxiety during mounting. Below: The application of learning theory in foundation training with an Andalusian stallion.
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Equitation Science has developed rapidly since discussions between Dr Debbie Goodwin, Dr Natalie Waran and Dr Paul McGreevy following the Havemeyer Foundation Workshop on Horse Behavior and Welfare in Iceland in 2002.
At a satellite meeting on horse welfare at ISAE 2003 in Italy, Dr Andrew McLean gave an oral presentation on learning theory in horse training. The first workshop on Equitation Science was held at Edinburgh Vet School in 2004 where Andrew gave 3 practical demonstrations of the application of 'learning theory' in-hand and under-saddle. As a result of the interest of approximately 30 equine scientists at this workshop, it was decided to launch the first symposium in equitation science at the Australian Equine Behaviour Centre the following year.
The First International Equitation Science Symposium was inaugurated in August 2005, when 8 peer-reviewed research presentations and discussions were conducted at the AEBC in Australia.
The Second International Equitation Science Symposium was held in Italy at the Milan University vet school in 2006 with 15 peer reviewed papers and 11 posters and practical demonstrations at the Equestiran Centre and Equestrian Museum of the Luxardo family. In August this year the third Symposium was hosted by Michigan State University, USA.
This marked another milestone for equitation science with the formation of the International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) that held its first general meeting and elected its council. The formation of the Society is a great step forward for equitation science and is a direct result of the growing worldwide interest in this among equestrian professionals and academicians alike. The group of veterinarians and equine scientists who make up the ISES share the view that problems with the ridden horse are often difficult to address due to the lack of science in equitation. Their mission is to promote and encourage the application of objective research and advanced practice which will ultimately improve the welfare of horses in their associations with humans. The ISES adopts ethical guidelines of the International Society for Applied Ethology (ISAE) which can be viewed on the following link: http://www.applied-ethology.org/ethicalguidelines.htm
Symposium, Australia, 2005 and Definitions Paper