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

Dr. Chris Mortensen, delves into the significant considerations around retiring horses, influenced by the story of Al Jabal, an Arabian who won a graded stakes race at 19, reinforcing the idea that age can sometimes be just a number.

Dr. Mortensen discusses factors leading to horse retirement, including health care, nutrition, and the physiological challenges of aging. The podcast covers various disciplines and their typical retirement ages, highlighting studies on racehorses and performance horses, and addresses alternative careers for retired horses, such as therapy programs.

Additionally, Dr. Mortensen explores the importance of planning for a horse's retirement, touching on options like retirement farms and sanctuaries while emphasizing responsible ownership till the end-of-life decisions.

Podcast Timeline

00:00 Introduction to Aging and Retirement in Horses

00:37 The Legendary Tale of Al Jabal: A Champion Beyond Age

03:42 Meet Dr. Chris Mortensen: Unveiling Equine Legends and Science

04:19 Understanding Horse Retirement: Factors and Second Careers

09:15 The Science of Aging in Horses: From Physiology to Care

17:24 Retirement and Beyond: The Fate of Racehorses

21:00 Exploring Post-Racing Careers for Thoroughbreds and Standardbreds

24:20 Age and Performance in English Disciplines: A Detailed Analysis

25:42 Exploring the Longevity and Retirement of Sport Horses

26:02 Insights from a Dutch Study on Horse Retirement

28:11 Analyzing Career Lengths and Retirement Causes in Horses

31:52 Understanding the Impact of Age and Discipline on Horse Retirement

33:56 Retirement Options and Quality of Life for Aging Horses

36:57 The Role of Therapy Riding in Horse Retirement

40:57 Considering Nonprofit Rescues and Retirement Farms

46:38 Concluding Thoughts on Horse Retirement and Care

48:14 Engagement and Resources for Horse Enthusiasts

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 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