Stable Science from Dr David Marlin's Animalweb

In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Dr David Marlin takes a deep dive into something every horse owner uses, but few truly scrutinise, bedding.
Drawing on extensive independent testing, owner surveys and even calibrated weight checks, David unpacks the science behind bedding quality, respiratory health, value for money and UK Trading Standards compliance.

This is not a brand-bashing discussion; it is evidence-based information designed to help you make informed decisions for your horse and your wallet.

Why You Should Listen
Many brands claim to be “dust free”. David explains why, in laboratory testing, no bedding has ever been completely dust-free.
What dust actually contains, including bacteria, mould spores, pollen and mites
Why this matters for equine respiratory health
Which products tested as genuinely low dust, and which performed poorly
If your horse spends up to 23 hours in the stable, air quality matters.

Beyond Dust – What Really Makes Good Bedding?
The podcast explains how Animalweb tests bedding scientifically, including:
Absorbency
Hygienic quality, measured through bacterial and fungal colony growth
Ammonia control
Resistance to scattering
Ease of mucking out
David also discusses why lab testing is only part of the picture, and how real-world owner experience adds valuable insight.

The Bale Weight Investigation
One of the most eye-opening sections of the episode looks at bale weights.
David explains how 10 bales of selected shavings brands were weighed on calibrated scales, and what they found:
Some products contained slightly more than stated
Four contained less than their advertised or widely sold weight
Two did not comply with UK Trading Standards labelling requirements
When you calculate the true price per kilogram based on actual weight, some “cheap” options do not look so economical after all.

The Bottom Line
This episode is about empowering owners with independent data.
It covers:
Respiratory risk
Hygiene and bacterial load
Real value for money
Lab testing versus marketing claims
How to interpret bedding choices intelligently

If you stable your horse, this is essential listening.
Whether you are concerned about dust, looking to reduce costs, or simply want to make evidence-based decisions, this podcast gives you the tools to do exactly that.

Head to the website for more details and to see the test, survey and investigation results for yourself! Animalweb Bedding

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.

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What does a “good life” really look like for a showjumping horse, and how can coaching methods support both equine welfare and rider decision-making under pressure?

In this episode of the Animalweb podcast, Helen Stock is joined by British Showjumping coaches Natasha Andrews and Richard Seals, following their research presentations at the BSAS Equine Conference. Drawing directly on their Master’s-level research, the conversation bridges real-world coaching practice with emerging evidence on welfare, learning, and performance.

Natasha explores how showjumping coaches assess and promote a good life for the horse during training sessions, revealing strong welfare awareness but also gaps in formal education on equine learning theory, mental wellbeing, and ethical decision-making. Her findings raise important questions about social licence, duty of care and the emotional challenges coaches face when performance pressures clash with welfare values.

Richard’s research focuses on positive pedagogy and game-based coaching approaches, examining how supportive learning environments help riders develop confidence, adaptability and better decision-making in the arena. He explains why encouraging riders to think for themselves, reflect positively and problem-solve under pressure is not only vital for performance, but also for horse welfare and long-term partnership success.

Together, this episode offers valuable insights for coaches, riders and anyone interested in the future of equestrian sport. It challenges traditional coaching norms, highlights the importance of evidence-based practice, and shows how thoughtful coaching can improve outcomes for both horse and rider.

If you care about welfare, performance and developing confident, ethical equestrian partnerships, this is an episode well worth listening to.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Bioresonance (sometimes called bio-energetic therapy or bio-frequency therapy) is an alternative or complementary therapy based on the idea that every cell, tissue, or organ in the body emits its own electromagnetic frequency or “vibration.”

Devices are sold for placement on the skin (or, for animals, sometimes attached to the coat), and the devices measure electrical signals, analyse their “frequencies,” and emit counterfrequencies supposedly intended to cancel or correct the imbalance.

With her characteristic clarity and curiosity, Gillian explores why bioresonance sounds plausible in theory. She also discusses legitimate areas of electromagnetic therapy, such as PEMF and photobiomodulation, and calls for proper research to separate real physiological effects from pseudoscientific claims.

Whether you’ve seen these devices online, been recommended one, or are simply curious about the science behind them, this episode is an essential listen for any evidence-minded equestrian or therapist.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this conversation, Dr David Marlin speaks with Annie Price, who runs a riding school in Somerset. They discuss the importance of creating a positive and supportive environment for riders, particularly those with mental health challenges. Annie shares her experiences of fostering individual growth in riders, addressing bullying, and the cultural differences in equestrian training between Germany and the UK. They emphasise the need for leadership in riding schools to cultivate a happy atmosphere for both riders and horses, and explore innovative teaching methods that prioritise enjoyment and personal development over competition.
Discussion Points:
Creating a supportive environment is crucial for rider development.
Cultural differences impact the approach to equestrian training.
Individual growth should be prioritised over competition.
Mental health awareness is essential in riding schools.
Leadership plays a key role in shaping the culture of riding schools.
Innovative teaching methods can enhance the learning experience.
Building a community fosters confidence and camaraderie among riders.
Addressing bullying promptly is necessary for a healthy environment.
Happy riders contribute to the well-being of horses.
A positive atmosphere leads to a thriving equestrian business.

Find out more about YardWise - yardwise.co.uk
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It’s not just a day out—it’s a practical, in-person event offering real guidance, expert insights and workshops, and a space to connect with others facing the same challenges. From legal and employment advice to welfare and business best practices, it’s tailored for livery yard, riding school, and equestrian centre owners who want to do better—and stand out for it.
Whether you're just starting or have run a yard for years, YardWise is your chance to learn, connect, and be part of a movement that’s raising the standard and protecting the future of the industry.
Join the Yard Owners who have already bought their tickets... Limited tickets available on a first come, first served basis.

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this relaxed conversation, expert vet and rider biomechanics specialist Maria Terese Engel joins Animalweb to discuss her groundbreaking research into rider asymmetry and movement patterns. Drawing on her unique background in both veterinary medicine and ballet, Maria shares insights from her current studies and the upcoming international launch of the Rider in Balance Academy.

She explains how improving rider awareness and technique off the horse can dramatically change riding performance in just six weeks. From Olympic riders to grassroots amateurs, Maria’s methods centre on building precise body awareness and correcting long-held movement habits. This episode is packed with practical takeaways, especially for anyone striving to ride more sympathetically, improve balance, or avoid unnecessary pressure on the horse.

Watch Maria's previous webinar and videos with Animalweb here:
Webinar – Rider Balance with Dr Maria Terese Engell
Video – David meets Dr Maria Terese Engell – AAEP Convention

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To find out more about becoming a member >>> AskAnimalweb.com

Not a Member? Join for as little as £6 a month or £8 on a month-by-month basis to access all the test results and have a say in what we test and investigate next. For this, you also get access to all past and future webinars, videos, podcasts, and articles, the opportunity to take part in testing and research and SOOOO much more.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.