Description
Can Dressage Be Saved?
Industry Experts Discuss Welfare Changes Needed
With Dr Sue Dyson – Equine Performance Expert | Dr James Cooling – Bit and Bridle Expert | Lisa White -International Dressage Trainer
Wednesday, 1st April 2026 | 8:00 PM (UK)
Dressage is under scrutiny — and the welfare conversation isn’t going away.
In this powerful live discussion, three leading experts come together to explore what’s really happening inside the sport, what needs to change, and how we can protect the horses at its heart.
Joining the panel:
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Dr Sue Dyson – Internationally renowned equine performance expert
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Dr James Cooling – Bit and bridle fitting specialist
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Lisa White – International dressage trainer and competitor
Together, they’ll address the current welfare concerns in dressage, where the industry may be falling short, and what practical, meaningful change could look like — not just at elite level, but across the wider equestrian world.
Yes, it’s on April 1st… but this conversation is no joke.
Free for IH Members | £10 for non-members
Includes live Q&A. Recording available to IH Members only.
If you care about the future of dressage — and the comfort of the horses within it — this is one not to miss.
You’ll learn about:
- – Why dressage is such a talking point at the moment
- – The welfare concerns in the industry
- – What change’s can,,, and need… to be made to improve welfare in dressage and wider equine competition
- – What you can do to help this change
About Dr Sue Dyson:
World-Renowned former rider, BHS level 5 coach, with more than 40 years experience investigating lameness and poor performance
Dr. Sue Dyson is a world-renowned expert in equine lameness, combining equestrian skills and knowledge of equine movement and behaviour to improve horse welfare. Her extensive research and clinical work have significantly advanced the understanding of lameness causes, diagnosis, and treatment, making her a leading authority in equine health and performance.
About Dr James Cooling:
GP, IH Trainer & Bit and Bridle Fitting Expert
James Cooling is a Bit and Bridle fitting expert and a founding member of the Association of Professional Bit and Bridle Fitters (APBBF), where he brings his expertise to riders across Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. James is dedicated to improving horse welfare through proper bit and bridle fitting.
About Lisa White:
International Dressage Rider, Trainer & Expert Witness
Lisa has trained Dressage riders up to and including International FEI Grand Prix Dressage, a Certificate Of Capability for the World Equestrian Games, and selection for European Young Rider Dressage Championships. Lisa is a qualified member of the prestigious International Dressage Trainers Club, a select group of trainers from around the world who have competed and trained at the highest level. She has held regular training clinics in Greece, Ireland, Scotland, France, The Philippines and Taiwan, as well as NZ and of course the UK. Lisa also enjoys training amateur riders for Riding Club and non-competitive improvement.
How to Watch:
- – IH Members: You’ll receive your FREE Zoom link on the day of the event.
- – Non-Members: Book your ticket for just £10 or Join as an IH Member to attend free and unlock 50+ hours of past webinars instantly.
- – Please note: Tickets are non-refundable, and the recording will only be available to IH Members.
