Description
Exploring the Equine Brain: Science, Behaviour & Training – Webinar Recording
with Dr. Andrew Hemmings
Delve into the fascinating world of equine neuroscience with Dr. Andrew Hemmings, an expert in equine behaviour and cognition. This webinar explores the structural similarities between horse and human brains, focusing on the role of key brain regions and the neurotransmitter dopamine. Learn how dopamine influences learning, cognition, temperament, and health conditions like Cushing’s disease. Discover the link between feeding and stereotypic behaviours like crib biting and weaving, and explore potential genetic influences on equine behaviour. Dr. Hemmings also discusses behavioural measures of dopamine, such as blink rate, and shares findings from cognitive testing in horses. This webinar is essential for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of equine behaviour, training, and welfare.
In This Webinar:
- – Understand the structural similarities between horse and human brains.
- – Learn about the role of dopamine in equine behaviour and cognition.
- – Discover how dopamine influences learning, temperament, and health.
- – Explore the link between feeding and stereotypic behaviours.
- – Understand potential genetic influences on equine behaviour.
- – Learn about behavioural measures of dopamine, such as blink rate.
- – Gain insights from cognitive testing in horses.
About Andrew:
Associate Professor Andrew Hemmings is a leading researcher in equine behavioural neuroscience. His work bridges the gap between brain function and observable behaviour, with a focus on improving equine welfare. He pioneered the use of blink rate assessment as a non-invasive method to study dopaminergic systems, a technique now widely adopted in equine science.
His research extends to developing brain-focused indicators for assessing equine welfare, cognitive profiles, temperament, and even predicting athletic performance. With a background in post-mortem brain receptor studies, his current work centers on non-invasive techniques applicable to living horses.
Beyond his research, Andrew is dedicated to knowledge exchange, actively communicating scientific findings to horse owners to enhance animal care. He holds key university positions, including Chair of the Research Ethics Committee and Student Support Champion, and is a member of the British Society of Animal Science and the British Horse Society.
How To Watch:
Explore equine neuroscience with Dr. Andrew Hemmings. Learn about brain similarities, dopamine’s role, stereotypic behaviours, and genetic influences on equine behaviour.
