horse research project ideas

70 Awesome Resources for a Horse Science Study and Lessons

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Author: Tonya Totin

If you have a child who is fascinated by horses, turn that interest into a horse science study. The number of resources available on the topic are astounding.

My daughter has had a love of animals, especially horses, practically since birth. As early as three, she could name the horses’ breeds using the Breyer horses handed down to her from her dad. Any time she would spot a pony ride while we were out, she had to participate. She would even wait for several turns at the amusement park carousel to ride a certain Appaloosa.

As she grew older, that passion never wavered. Since I homeschooled my children, I used her love for horses to teach her the academics she needed.  We incorporated math, science, history, literature, and even life skills while expanding her knowledge on the subject she loved.  When she approached high school age, she began to explore career possibilities related to horses and animals in general.

The list of resources for horse science and lessons listed below is just a jumping-off point. We have reviewed, vetted, and compiled a list of resources that we know will make a well-rounded horse study. The links are arranged by grade level, where needed. However, for the most part, all ages will enjoy the listed resources.

If your child enjoys this subject as much as my daughter, I have a piece of advice for you. SADDLE UP AND ENJOY THE RIDE!

70 Horse Science Study and Lesson Resources for K-12

We have created a FREE Animal Report printable to use alongside any of the resources below. You’ll find more about this free resource at the end of this post. Keep reading….

Create customized horse study and lessons for your homeschool or classroom with this large list of horse resources we have compiled.

The links are organized by grade level, and we’ve also included resources all ages will enjoy. Design your horse lessons and study to fit your child’s interests. It might be overwhelming to try to fit it all in, depending on your schedule and allotted time for your horse study.

Preschool/ Elementary Activities

• Kentucky Derby
• Thoroughbred Life Cycle Activity
• Horse Breed Cards
• Przewalski’s Horse
• Montessori Inspired Horse Unit Study
• Horse Lesson Plan for Younger Children

• Color Coat Genetics
• Equine Coat Color Genetics Lesson
• Equine Science resources for the older student : A wealth of information and links
• Horse Breeds Activity
• Quiz Your Horse Knowledge
• Scientific Classification
• Science Fair Project Ideas for Horse Lovers
• How Old is That Hors e : How to use a horse’s teeth to determine a horse’s age
•   Looking into Careers for Horse Lovers

All-Age Resources for a Horse Study and Science Lessons

If you are teaching multiple ages during your horse study, below are resources that will work for lessons that involve a variety of grade levels.

• Horse Science News
• Equine Knowledge Contest
• Sample Equine Husbandry Questions
• Hippology Study Resources
• How to Take Care of a Horse
• What is Equitation?
• Equine Nutrition Basics
• Basic Horse Nutrition
• Eat Like a Horse
• The Difference in Riding Styles
• Horse Competitions
• Horse Jumps Explained
• American Quarter Horse Association
• Seven Drills for Riding Correctly
• All About Horses
• Horse Breeds Powerpoint
• Horses of Shackleford Banks
• Equine Science 4 Kids website from Rutgers 
• Exercising Horsepower : exercise  physiology computer game
• Horse anatomy 
• Gaits and Anatomy
• How To Ride A Horse
• The United States Pony Clubs, Inc. : Many lesson plans are offered as well as information on finding a local club to check out!

Add some interesting videos to your horse science study and lessons:

How to Become a Farrier

Mounted Patrol: A Day in the Life Video

• How Police Horses are Trained
• Police Horse Training Video
• Shoeing Horses for a Living Video

Horse Experiments and Hands-on Activities

• Making Horse Treats
• Composting Science
• If you have horses, here is an experiment you can do with them
• Dragonfly TV video on horse ears

The Science Of Horse Racing

• Scientists believe they have found a “speed gene” in racehorses
• What We’re Learning From Horse Racing Research

Add Some Math to Your Horse Science Study and Lessons!

• Math For Horse Lovers
• The Geometry of Dressage: High School
• How a Jockey’s weight affects Speed: High School
• The Physics of Show Jumping: High School
• Counting Strides
• Walking the Course
• Ride and Solve: Online math game: Geared for Elementary
• My Smart Horse: Online Math Game: Geared for Elementary

Horse Vocabulary

• Basic horse terminology
• How to draw horses 
• Horse drawing tutorial
• How to draw a horse video
• Zentangle horse coloring page printable
• Horse coloring pages

Horse Unit Studies

• All About Horses Lapbook
• 4H Horse Project Manual

Virtual Fieldtrip Opportunities

• International Museum of the Horse
• Kentucky Horse Park
• Kentucky Derby Museum
• Pony Power Therapy Program

Other Resources We Have Used with Our Horse Science Study

Reading books, coloring books, and sticker books are an excellent complement to a horse study  When studying human or animal biology, a good anatomy coloring book is appropriate for middle and high school students too. Included in the links below is Secretariat – this is a good read for high school.

A personal favorite are the Dover sticker and coloring books. Below are the titles we enjoyed in our horse science study. The stained glass mini-coloring book is a favorite for the K-5 crowd!

Download our FREE Animal Report printable pages. They are ideal for students who like to draw or write…or both. These fun and engaging pages are an effective way for your student to journal what they have learned.

I hold a master’s degree in child development and early education and am working on a post-baccalaureate in biology. I spent 15 years working for a biotechnology company developing IT systems in DNA testing laboratories across the US. I taught K4 in a private school, homeschooled my children, and have taught on the mission field in southern Asia. For 4 years, I served on our state’s FIRST Lego League tournament Board and served as the Judging Director.  I own thehomeschoolscientist and also write a regular science column for Homeschooling Today Magazine. You’ll also find my writings on the CTCMath blog. Through this site, I have authored over 50 math and science resources.

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List Of 12 Research Paper Topics Related To Horses

There are a number of topics worth exploring when working on a research paper related to horses. But we know it can be hard for students to come up with ideas of their own due to the number of stresses they face with all their academic responsibilities. So here is a list of 12 topics to consider:

• Is it ethical to allow gambling in a sport that endangers animals such as horse racing? Consider the number of deaths that have occurred in horse racing each year at both major and minor events.
• What are the biggest dangers to humans who ride horses for sport? Is a horse every truly tamed or do their natural instincts take over when they feel threatened by the behaviors of humans who keep them for sport?
• What is the genetics history of horse breeds from around the world? Where did they originate from and how did their migration patterns (both in the wild and domesticated) compare in relation to that of humans?
• How does the positive reinforcement affect the way a horse is domesticated and trained to obey its masters? Are there different reinforcement methods and if so which are the most effective?
• What is a healthier option for non-racing, domesticated horses? To roam barefoot or shod? Is there any research that indicates which has been better for a horse’s physical and emotional health under the same circumstances?
• Humans have valued horses for thousands of years. But how have perspectives from different cultures across the world affected the way in which horses are treated in comparison to other animals?
• What are the greatest difficulties in the veterinary practice of horses? Are vets challenged because of the relative inability for horses to heal from certain leg injuries that cause inflammation and damage to certain ligaments?
• How did the closing of horse slaughterhouses in the United States, lead to increased gross neglect and inhumane treatment of horses by way of abandonment and starvation?
• How did the horse evolve to have such a great sense of balance, strength, and speed to evade predators and other types of dangers in the environment? What are the most important senses for a horse’s survival in the wild?
• How far do certain breeds trace back to (e.g., QH, TB, Arab, etc.)? Are there specific genetics that have aided in their longevity?
• His horse racing a sport determined solely by a horse’s prowess and speed over others, or does the jockey’s physical and mental condition factor into success?
• How does radiography technology help in the early detection of bone cyst in horses, and what are the greater consequences of early treatment?

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Six Impactful Equine Research Projects Supported by The Foundation for the Horse

The Foundation for the Horse has awarded $110,277 for six innovative equine research projects conducted by AAEP-member graduate students, residents, or postdoctoral fellows. Over the last four years, The Foundation has provided $436,675 to support meaningful equine research by up-and-coming investigators as it continues to help pioneer medical advances in equine health.

"Scientific discovery and innovation bring the future of equine medicine into reality," said Dr. Anthony Blikslager of The Foundation's Research Review Group. "This Foundation is unrelentingly dedicated to the veterinary profession and to the horse's health."

For the third consecutive year, The Foundation was joined by the Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) in helping make these research projects possible. This year TERF, whose mission is to make racing safer through research and education, increased its support by funding three important research projects with the potential to impact the health and safety of Thoroughbred athletes.

The supported research projects with researcher names and summaries follow:

• Dual licensing of mesenchymal stem cells to enhance tendon healing (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Drew W. Koch, North Carolina State University Utilize in vitro co-culture assays to determine if IL-1b and/or TGF-b2 licensed mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) positively affect equine superficial digital flexor tendon tenocyte growth, function, and expression of tendon-relevant genes and proteins to support future in vivo studies examining licensed MSC therapy for equine tendon injury.

• In vitro analysis of the optimization of stem cell therapy for the treatment of osteoarthritis using equine synovial fluid derived from mesenchymal stem cells with a soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Alexandra Carlson, University of Tennessee To determine if using soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors (sEHi) with stem cell therapy can improve stem cell activity by reducing inflammation in the joint while also eliminating adverse effects on the stem cells that typical anti-inflammatory treatment can have.

• Clinical evaluation of a rapid test strip, PCR, and enriched-aerobic culture for the detection of salmonella enterica in equine feces

Dr. Emily Herring, University of Georgia Evaluate the rapid test's performance, compared to culture and PCR, for the detection of salmonella in equine fecal samples by performing all three tests in parallel on the same samples to assess their ability to determine whether a horse is infected with salmonella correctly.

• Short-term oil dietary supplementation affects oocyte and cumulus cell metabolism in old mares

Dr. Giovana Di Donato Catandi, Colorado State University Investigate how oils rich in omega-6 or omega-3 fatty acids affect the metabolic function of the oocyte and ovarian follicle cells and determine if additional dietary supplements can optimize fatty acid use in the ovarian follicle while reducing potential side effects.

• A pilot study on an experimental model for Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) in horses (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Lauren Smanik, Colorado State University To develop an experimental model of Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) that would allow researchers to study the progression in a controlled, prospective manner that will allow for future studies on variables that may affect lesion severity and facilitate the development of an optimized treatment plan.

• Investigation of MARCKS protein as a novel therapeutic target to decreased neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in equine asthma

Dr. Bethanie L. Cooper, North Carolina State University To identify novel treatment alternatives to steroid therapy for horses with equine asthma through neutrophil extracellular traps, released by airway neutrophils, as potential therapeutic targets.

Equine research is one of three pillars of impact—along with education and horses at risk—supported by The Foundation. The 2023 application window for this research grant program will open next spring. To learn more, visit https://www.foundationforthehorse.org/graduate-student-fellow-resident-research-grants/.

About The Foundation for the Horse

Established in 1994, The Foundation for the Horse is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to improving the welfare of the horse through Education, Research, and Horses at Risk. It is governed and stewarded by world-renowned equine veterinarians and equine stakeholders. In 2022, and for the second consecutive year, The Foundation awarded over $1 million in scholarships and grants to impact equine health and well-being throughout the U.S. and developing countries. To learn more, visit  http://www.foundationforthehorse.org

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Components of horse science fair projects

Horse science fair project ideas, tips for science fair projects with horses.

• Resources and references for a horse science fair project

I don’t know about you, but the idea of having to do science fair projects every year for 4th grade, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, and 8th grade was unappealing. But once I realized I could do all of my science fair projects with horses, the idea of doing science fair projects every year became much more appealing. However, when I tried to look up horse science fair projects online for inspiration I could not find much.  

So, I decided to start a page dedicated to horse science fair projects. Here you can find different horse science fair project ideas for different grade levels, along with actual science fair experiments for different grade levels, that tell you what you need for the experiments and how to do the science fair projects.

This page may contain affiliate links which may earn a commission.

First: Hypothesis

You need to have a well thought out hypothesis for your science fair project.  A hypothesis is a well thought out question that you aim to answer through your experiment.  In order to construct a good hypothesis you will want to write down different questions you currently have regarding horses or something related to horses.  Then you will want to start doing some research into each question to see what information about your question is out there.  Finally you can construct your hypothesis from your research.  Every good science fair project starts with a good hypothesis.

For example:  Let’s say my list of questions was 

Does shoulder angle affect stride length?

Do horses’ eyes change color as they age?

Are horses more or less spooky when in a herd?

Well from this list of different horse related questions I could go to the internet and start researching them to see what is out there but before I do even that I can quickly pair down my list.  I can immediately cross off the second question because I only have a few months to do this experiment and to look at horses’ eyes as they age would take years.  So now that I am down to two questions I can go to the internet and see what is out there and choose which question intrigues me more and that I think I could successfully test.  Hypothetically, let’s say I found a scientific paper saying horses with smaller shoulder angles have longer strides.  I could use that paper for the basis of my hypothesis which would be “If the horse or pony has a smaller shoulder angle, then the horse or pony will have a longer stride”.

Second: Methods

Now that a hypothesis has been established you can create your methods for your science fair project.  The methods section should include the exact procedure you will use for your experiment.  You will want this section to be very detailed.  The idea is that anyone should be able to replicate your science fair project from your methods section.  

For example:

• First, have the horse or pony stand square; measure the horse or pony’s height. 
• Then, take a picture of the horse or pony; print the picture out. 
• From the picture you will then draw a line (with the marker) to the point of shoulder. 
• After drawing a line to the point of shoulder draw a line (with the marker) across the horse’s or pony’s body. 
• Once these two lines have been drawn measure the horses shoulder angle with the protractor.
• After measuring out 12’ to 6’ distance (depending on if it is a horse or pony) place a pole at the beginning of the distance and at the end, out of the horse’s or pony’s path. 
• Have the horse or pony canter the given distance (with the rider on them) while counting the strides they take over the given distance (it should only be one stride). 
• Lastly, record the results.

Third: Controls, Variables, and Materials  

Once you have your methods you will want to list the controls, variables, and materials for the science fair project.  Controls in an experiment refer to the things that we keep the same so that the science fair project is as exact as possible.  Variables in an experiment are broken into two categories; independent variables and dependent variables.  Independent variables are those that you change while dependent variables are those that change in response to what you have changed.  

For example: The controls of this science fair experiment are the distance measured, the poles, the rider, the tack, the protractor, the way the horse’s or pony’s shoulder angle is measured, the place, the camera and printer.   The dependent variables of this experiment include the horse’s or pony’s stride. The independent variables of this experiment include the time of day, the day, the weather, the horse's attitude, the horses or ponies, horses or ponies shoulder angle, and the horse’s or pony’s height. 

Fourth: The experiment 

Now that you have everything prepared and a plan in place you can perform the actual science fair project.  This is done simply by doing what you said you were going to do in the methods section.  The science experiment may not go as you planned or you may have to slightly change your methods if you notice a consistent problem with the experiment.  Typically, you will want to do at least three trials so you can get more accurate results.

Fifth: Data and Results

Once the science experiment is done you can compile all of your data.  You should have all the data for each trial (usually in table format).  In addition to the tables you will also most likely want to construct graphs and/or charts that relate to your data.  On top of the data you will need to write a small section on what your data showed in reference to your hypothesis.  The written section is what is known as the results.

Trial one agreed with the hypothesis. The horses and ponies in trial one reached the correct number of strides for the horse or pony’s shoulder angle.

Trial two mostly agreed with the hypothesis. The horses and ponies in trial two reached the correct number of strides for the horse or pony’s shoulder angle.

Trial three didn't agree with the hypothesis. Three of the horses and ponies were not in the stride length range for the horse or pony’s shoulder angle.

Overall, the hypothesis was supported by the trials.

Sixth: Conclusion

The conclusion is meant to summarize your science fair project in a paragraph or two.  The most important part of this section is to talk about whether the hypothesis was supported or not supported and why.  Unlike the results section it doesn’t need to dive deep into the data but rather just tell the reader the overall takeaway.

For example: In conclusion, the hypothesis that was created was agreed with.  Both trial one and two agreed with the hypothesis while trial three disagreed with the hypothesis.  The experiment showed that height has nothing to do with a horse or pony's shoulder angle. Instead, it showed that the larger the horse or pony's shoulder angle, the shorter the stride length.  The three trials did prove the hypothesis.

Seventh:  Recommendations

Once the science fair experiment is over and you have collected your results you will need to write a recommendations section.  The recommendations section basically describes what variables could have influenced the science fair experiment and how you would improve the science fair experiment going forward.

For example:  Variables that might have affected the experiment were the weight of the rider, the tack used, the day, the time, the tiredness of the horse or pony, the weather, the ability of the rider, the health of the horse or pony, the number of trips, the position of the rider, and the height of the rider. These variables could have impacted the outcome of the experiment.  For future improvement, I could use more horses and ponies, use a rider of a different weight, height, or experience. I could also pick a cooler day or maybe also just do one trial a day.

Eighth: Abstract

The abstract is another important component of any science fair experiment.  The abstract often goes over the purpose of the experiment, the trials you conducted, results, controls, and variables.  Basically, it gives a brief overview of your entire science fair project from beginning to end.

For example:  The purpose of this experiment is to find out if the horse’s shoulder angle or the horse’s height affects its stride. The subjects of the experiment are three horses and two ponies. If the subject has a smaller shoulder angle, then the subject will have a longer stride.

Trial one agreed with the hypothesis. The subjects in trial one reached the correct number of strides for the subject’s shoulder angle. Trial two mostly agreed with the hypothesis.

The subjects in trial two reached the correct number of strides for the subject’s shoulder angle.

Trial three didn't agree with the hypothesis.  For the third trial, three of the subjects were not in the stride length range for the subject’s shoulder angle. 

Overall, the hypothesis was supported.  In conclusion, the hypothesis was agreed with. 

The first two trials agreed with the hypothesis. Trial three disagreed with the hypothesis. 

The experiment showed that height has nothing to do with a subject's shoulder angle. Instead, it showed that the larger the subject's shoulder angle, the shorter the stride length.

The controls of this experiment are the distance measured, the poles, the rider, the tack, the protractor, the way the subject's shoulder angle is measured, the location, and the camera and printer. 

The dependent variables of this experiment include the subject’s stride.  The independent variables of this experiment include the time of day, the day, the weather, the subject’s attitude, the subject’s shoulder angle, and the subject’s height.

Ninth: Purpose, Problem, and Application

In your science fair project you will also most likely need to include the purpose of your experiment, the problem you are addressing in your experiment, and how your experiment can be helpful in the real world.

For example: The purpose of this experiment is to find out if the horse’s shoulder angle or the horse’s height affects its stride. The problem in this experiment is, does the shoulder angle or height of the horse affect its stride?  The application of this experiment is that it could be proven useful for people who are buying, selling, riding, jumping a horse or pony. It could even be helpful to people trying to figure out the horse’s or pony’s estimated stride length.

If you just want to see the example experiment I gave without the explanation on what everything is, head to the Horse Science Fair Experiment page.

Tip: Be ready to talk about your project! Every grader I had during my science fair years would ask me several follow up questions. It is a great idea to not only practice presenting your project, but to also have those who watched ask you some practice questions.

I think that the large majority of these projects would be fine for anyone in 4th, 5th grade, 6th grade, 7th grade, or 8th grade.  The nice part about any of these ideas is that you can make it more or less challenging based on your grade level.

Some of these science fair ideas involving horses are not quite ready to go in their current format, but that's okay hopefully they can provide you inspiration.

Horse Anatomy by Anonymous You can do a project on a horse's insides and bones - how they work. How Much Dirt a Hoof Collects by Kaley I did this at my science fair. It is about determining which hooves - front or back, collect the most dirt or mud. You clean the hooves, but put the mud in a sandwich bag and measure it. I hope this helps. Enlightened Equitation! by Lucinda, Godalming Surrey England This project is about how the horse moves - different gaits of a horse and how they vary within the different horse breeds , such as the Fox Trot, Tennessee walking, Cob, Icelandic, Thoroughbred , etc. It's also about how the horses conformation affects the way it moves (static and dynamic). Other horse breeds could include Lipizzaner, Andalusian, American Saddlebred, Standardbred, Arabian , etc. Which Breed is Faster or Prettiest? by Jem, Crownsville MD You could do an experiment and ask owners of different horse breeds (you don't have to do all of them you can just do a few) and see them run and see their speed with a radar gun or you can do kind of the same thing except you see which breed is the prettiest. Which Treats do Horses Respond to Best? by Ava, Albany NY USA My friend Chloe did this experiment one year at her stable with a couple different horses. She wanted to see which horse treats would the horses be more eager to work for. I thought it was a good idea for a project because it could help the owner find which treats to buy and what not to buy. Hope you like it! Which Grain is Better for Horses? by Savannah, Utah  Looking for horse science fair projects? Maybe what you could do, is you could take two horses and take two types of grain. The one you use now, and a different brand. Then see what grain makes what horse feel better and stuff. I just learned about this in science and thought it would be cool Comparing Horse Behavior to Human Behavior by Hannah You could compare the behavior of horses and humans. Observe the rankings in a herd and observe a group of friends and their ranks. For example, "Who's the herd/group leader? Who's his/her right hand man? Who's the one no one likes?" Look for things like that. What Types of Hay Do Horses Prefer? by Alison, Boston Massachusetts USA You could use different types of hay and see what your horses like better. Which Horse Products do Horses Most React To? by Evangeline, Alaska You could take a little sample of hoof polish, stain sprays, anything that is advertised as THE BEST and see how it reacts to three types of liquid such as water, vinegar and soda pop. Horse Videos by Rebecca, VA You could definitely take a video about your horse and then show it or pics about the part of the body or you could talk about the evolution of a horse (with lots of color... everyone loves color!) Hope this helps! An Electrically-Charged Horse by Alexis I would make a horse made out of clay and put the body parts together, but before I put it together I would put electrical charges through the hollow clay.

Science Project Idea                                                                                                                                                           by Anonymous                                                                                                                                                                    This animal science/equine science project would be easy for a horse lover to do during the school year, because you don't need a horse. You could just take different saddle pads made out of different material and measure how much heat they trap vs. let through.   

Magical Horse by Jaden, Maryland USA You can buy horse paint which is perfectly safe for horses and make the legs look like zebra and the body purple also the tail and hair will be rainbow colors and add horse wings. Then you have your magical horses. Guess the Part of the Horse by Georgina, England A part of the horses body/organs is shown (picture) then you have to name what it is and then place it on a large horse picture where you think it must go. If both are correct you  win! Horses’ Senses by Stephanie, Quebec Canada This horse science fair project is all about the horses’ senses - what they have and how it helps them. The Horse’s Body by Mattie, Auburn AL You could create a model of a horses body. where their bones are, how it works, and where the organs are. I think it would fun! You could ask a vet to help if you needed it.

Heart Rate                                                                                                                                                                          by Anonymous                                                                                                                                                                    A middle school or high school student could measure how horse's heart rates respond to different stimuli. Another option would be to measure how different calming techniques affect horse's heart rate or you could see how different human emotions affect horse's heart rate.  

If you’ve done a project like this or have an idea for a horse science fair project, please share .

• You will need to find out if your school will allow you to conduct your science fair project with animals. If your school gives you permission to use horses in your horse science fair project you will need to find a horse or horses to use. So, you will probably need to ask around to find out if you can use other people's horses, or whether they must be your own (if you don't have a horse or horses.)
• Make sure you can repeat your science fair experiment. Often you must do the same procedure at least three times.
• Be sure you have time to complete your science fair experiment.  Unexpected issues such as bad weather, a horse getting sick, a horse going to a horse show for a week, etc could all lead to you not having the necessary time to do your science fair project. 
• It is also important to remember to be safe! A horse can be unpredictable especially if they feel scared and stressed. Remember to always treat your horse with respect and love.

Resources and references for a horse science fair project 

Science Fair Printable Planner Pages : These planner pages really help if you struggle with staying focused and organized or just need help understanding the steps in a science fair project. I wish I had this planner for my first middle school science fair project.

Help On How To Lay Out Your Poster Board : This website gives some great tips for how to lay out your poster board for your science fair project and how they are often judged. 

Easy And Free Graph Maker : This service is completely free and super easy to use. You can choose from all the major chart and graph choices, you can enter lots of data, and you can customize the colors of your graph.

More Science Fair Experiments And Projects : This website is great because it lets you filter by grade level, cost, time, and more.

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Official Blog of the United States Pony Clubs

2022 Research Project Fair in Review

By Liz Moyer, USPC Fundraising and Marketing Coordinator

Another United States Pony Clubs (USPC) Research Project Fair is in the books, and Pony Club’s science-minded members once again impressed judges with their exploration of equine topics. Presented by the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and supported by Kentucky Equine Research, the 2022 USPC Research Project Fair offered a virtual division as well as in-person entries at the USPC Convention held January 26-30, 2022, in Norfolk, Va.

About the United States Pony Clubs Research Project Fair

The USPC Research Project Fair provides members with an opportunity to explore their passion for horses and horsemanship through hypothesis-driven projects or in-depth reviews of the literature.

Projects can help members prepare for certifications, search for answers to their biggest horse-related questions, or find ways to better understand their own horse’s behavior. This year, topics ranged from the benefits of composting, absorbency of different bedding types, and coat color genetics, to the important and age-old question—can horses really talk?—as well as many others!

“The ultimate goal of the Research Project Fair is to provide a forum in which members can explore a topic of interest to them and share their findings,” explained USPC Research Project Fair organizer Yvette Seger, PhD “Sometimes this involves a deep dive into existing resources, while others may require an experimental framework. There is truly a place for everyone!”

Seger’s favorite part about the Research Project Fair is listening to the members present their process for exploring their topic of interest—what prompted them to explore this topic? How did they design their study? Did they have any unexpected findings? And most importantly, what might they want to explore next? “It’s a fantastic way for members to use their passion for horses to drive research methodology,” she says.

Supporting the Future

The 2022 participants showcased their projects with a visual display and short presentation to the panel of judges, including Adrienne Bushau-Sprinkle, PhD; and Bo Varnado for the virtual fair, and in person at the 2022 USPC Convention in Norfolk, Va., with judges Kelly Tighe; Kelly Vaughn, PhD; and Shawna White.

The event is made possible each year through the support of generous sponsors like the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation and Kentucky Equine Research, and numerous volunteers with expertise in biological research, science education, and Pony Club curriculum who volunteer their time as judges.

“Grayson is proud to sponsor the United States Pony Clubs Research Project Fair,” said Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation Director of Development Holly White. “We hope that through this partnership, we are encouraging young scientists to be mindful of horse health and safety at an early age. It’s wonderful to see the variety of research fair projects, from genetics and wound care to stable bedding options, the equine mouth, and many more.”

She commended the participants’ curiosity and commitment to their horses’ health and well-being. “We hope these young minds will eventually be leaders in the equine field and consider careers in veterinary medicine, equine research, or education,” she added.

Research project fair judge Shawna White, director of digital technology at Kentucky Equine Research, agrees with the importance of nurturing talent. “As the world leaders in equine nutrition, Kentucky Equine Research is proud to sponsor the next generation of equine scientists. The projects this year were incredibly well thought out and presented,” she said. “Serving as a judge for the second year in a row, I continue to be incredibly impressed by the work that Pony Club members put into these projects, and as a Pony Club alumna, I am ‘Pony Club Proud’ to be a part of such a wonderful program.”

The USPC Research Project Fair is open to Pony Club members of all ages and certification levels, and Seger is proud to point out that there is no entry fee to participate. She feels that the activity is a great way for members to participate in a national-level event, especially with the addition of the virtual option.

“Participants in both formats highlight the Research Project Fair as an opportunity to apply skills they are learning in their school science classes, as well as studying for future Pony Club certifications,” she says . “Overall, it provides a very supportive educational environment for Pony Club endeavors and beyond.”

The USPC Research Fair competition is held at the beginning of every year during the USPC Convention . Look for upcoming Research Project Fair details here on the Pony Club website and start thinking about what equine topics you might like to research!

2022 USPC Research Project Fair winners:

Individual Experimental Project (9-10 years of age)

First place: “Can Horses Talk?” presented by Annabelle M., Intermountain Region

Individual Experimental Project (11-13 years of age)

First place: “Effectiveness of Wound Care Options” presented by Bella E., Old Dominion Region

Individual Experimental Project (14-17 years of age)

First place: “ASIP and MC1R Research Project” presented by Abigail G., Northeast Region

Individual Literature Review (9-10 years of age)

First place: “Muzzle Mysteries: What Does That Lip Scrunching Mean?” presented by Mae B., Midwest Region

Individual Literature Review (11-13 years of age)

First place: “Body Condition Score” presented by Juliana D., Sierra Pacific Region

Individual Literature Review (14-17 years of age)

First place: “Lub-Dup” presented by Michaela F., Midwest Region

Second place: “Equine Narcolepsy” presented by Alaina M., Midwest Region

2022 USPC Research Project Fair Winners (Virtual):

First place: “Straight From the Horse’s Mouth (and Other Body Parts)” presented by Aubree S., Lake Shore Region

Second place: “Saddle and Tack Care” Riley Y., Southern California Region

First place: “Does Compost Really Work?” presented by Charlotte H., Midwest Region

Group Experimental Project

First place: “Which Bedding Will Keep Your Pony Dry” presented by Mae L. and Sophia L., Midwest Region

First place: “Scraping the Surface of Horse Genetics” presented by Melody D., Southwest Region

Individual Literature Review (25 years of age and above)

First place: “Heat Conditions and Related Illnesses and Mitigation” presented by Kathy C., Southwest Region

This article about the Research Project Fair was originally published in the Spring 2022 issue of  Discover USPC  magazine. Read more content from that issue.

If you are interested in participating in the USPC Research Project Fair in the future, please check out the instructions under “Activities and Contests” on the Opportunities, Grants, and Awards page.

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Home / News / Six Impactful Equine Research Projects Supported by The Foundation for the Horse

Six Impactful Equine Research Projects Supported by The Foundation for the Horse

• December 1, 2022
• ⎯ Edited Press Release

The Foundation for the Horse has awarded $110,277 for six innovative equine research projects. These projects were conducted by AAEP-member graduate students, residents, or postdoctoral fellows. Over the last four years, The Foundation has provided $436,675 to support meaningful equine research by up-and-coming investigators. In this way, it continues to help pioneer medical advances in equine health.

“Scientific discovery and innovation bring the future of equine medicine into reality,” said Dr. Anthony Blikslager of The Foundation’s Research Review Group. “This Foundation is unrelentingly dedicated to the veterinary profession and to the horse’s health.”

For the third consecutive year, The Foundation joined the Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF). This year TERF, whose mission is to make racing safer through research and education, increased its support by funding three important research projects with the potential to impact the health and safety of Thoroughbred athletes.

Projects Sponsored by The Foundation for the Horse

The supported research projects with researcher names and summaries follow:

Dual licensing of mesenchymal stem cells to enhance tendon healing  (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Drew W. Koch, North Carolina State University 

Utilize in vitro co-culture assays to determine if IL-1b and/or TGF-b2 licensed mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) positively affect equine superficial digital flexor tendon tenocyte growth, function, and expression of tendon-relevant genes and proteins to support future in vivo studies examining licensed MSC therapy for equine tendon injury.

In vitro analysis of the optimization of stem cell therapy for the treatment of osteoarthritis using equine synovial fluid derived from mesenchymal stem cells with a soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor  (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Alexandra Carlson, University of Tennessee

To determine if using soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors (sEHi) with stem cell therapy can improve stem cell activity by reducing inflammation in the joint while also eliminating adverse effects on the stem cells that typical anti-inflammatory treatment can have.

Clinical evaluation of a rapid test strip, PCR, and enriched-aerobic culture for the detection of  salmonella enterica  in equine feces

Dr. Emily Herring, University of Georgia

Evaluate the rapid test’s performance, compared to culture and PCR, for the detection of salmonella in equine fecal samples by performing all three tests in parallel on the same samples to assess their ability to determine whether a horse is infected with salmonella correctly.

Short-term oil dietary supplementation affects oocyte and cumulus cell metabolism in old mares

Dr. Giovana Di Donato Catandi, Colorado State University

Investigate how oils rich in omega-6 or omega-3 fatty acids affect the metabolic function of the oocyte and ovarian follicle cells and determine if additional dietary supplements can optimize fatty acid use in the ovarian follicle while reducing potential side effects.

A pilot study on an experimental model for Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) in horses  (TERF sponsored)

Dr. Lauren Smanik, Colorado State University

To develop an experimental model of Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) that would allow researchers to study the progression in a controlled, prospective manner that will allow for future studies on variables that may affect lesion severity and facilitate the development of an optimized treatment plan. 

Investigation of MARCKS protein as a novel therapeutic target to decreased neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in equine asthma

Dr. Bethanie L. Cooper, North Carolina State University

To identify novel treatment alternatives to steroid therapy for horses with equine asthma through neutrophil extracellular traps, released by airway neutrophils, as potential therapeutic targets.

Application for The Foundation for the Horse 2023 Research Grant Program

Equine research is one of three pillars of impact—along with education and horses at risk—supported by The Foundation. The 2023 application window for this research grant program will open early next year. To learn more, visit  https://www.foundationforthehorse.org/graduate-student-fellow-resident-research-grants/ . 

About The Foundation for the Horse

Established in 1994, The Foundation for the Horse is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to improving the welfare of the horse through Education, Research, and Horses at Risk. It is governed and stewarded by world-renowned equine veterinarians and equine stakeholders. In 2022, and for the second consecutive year, The Foundation awarded over $1 million in scholarships and grants to impact equine health and well-being throughout the U.S. and developing countries. To learn more, visit  http://www.foundationforthehorse.org

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Treat Your Horse Right: A Grade 4 Science Project

• Horse Science
• Treat Your Horse Right: A…

Ten-year-old Ava Alley, a 4th grade student at Walsh Elementary in Walsh, Colorado, decided to enter her school’s science fair for the first time. She chose her project because of her love of horses. Knowing horses like carrots and apples, Ava wondered if horses would like corn, pumpkin, or dates even more.

In her research Ava asked the question, “Which treat do horses like best of canned corn, dates, canned pumpkin, carrots, or apples?”

Shopping for horse treats.

Ava’s hypothesis for her experiment was: I think the majority of the horses will like the apples best.

Science Talk —hypothesis: a possible explanation for an observation, situation, or scientific problem that can be tested by further investigation.

First Ava cut the apples and carrots into small pieces. Next, she opened cans of corn and pumpkin. She put the treats in a basket and took the treats to the pens. Ava placed buckets outside the fence, one for each food type, and put the treats in the buckets.

One at a time she let the horses in the pen. Each treat was offered one at a time by pushing a bucket under the fence. Ava watched and recorded what the horse did.

Each week Ava changed the order in which the treats were offered. Her thinking was that the horses wouldn’t know the order of the treats. They’d have to smell and taste each treat. She thought it would help determine which treat they really liked best.

Ava recorded her observations using a table to collect her data and displayed the results with graphs.

• Horse 1: Deef, a bay horse belonging to Ava’s father.
• Horse 2: Divot, a sorrel horse that Ava’s cousin rides at their ranch.
• Horse 3: Rooster, a black horse belonging to Ava’s sister.
• Horse 4: Sparky, Ava’s sorrel horse

Over the four weeks of testing Ava used a point system to figure out which treat the horses liked best.

• If the horses smelled the treats, it was 1 point.
• If the horses tasted it, it was 2 points.
• If they ate all of it, they scored 3 points.

What’s your hypothesis? Do you agree with Ava’s? Which treat do you think the horses liked the best? Let’s take a look at Ava’s findings.

The first week Ava offered the canned corn first, followed by apples, dates, canned pumpkin, and carrots.

Here’s the data Ava collected in the first week of her experiment:

Here’s a graph displaying week one results:

1) What kind of graph did Ava use to display her data?

2) Which treat did the horses like the best?

3) Which treat was the least favourite?

In the second week the treats were fed in the following order: carrots, canned corn, apples, dates and canned pumpkin.

Here’s the graph showing Ava’s observations for week 2:

4) Did Deef (horse 1) eat any of the treats?

5) Sparky (horse 4) scored two fours in his section of the graph. What does this tell you about how Sparky interacted with the carrots and corn?

6) Divot (horse 2) received a ‘3’ for corn. What does this tell you about how Divot interacted with the corn?

In the third week the treats were fed in the following order: Canned pumpkin, carrots, canned corn, apples, and dates.

In the fourth week the treats were offered in this order: Canned pumpkin, dates, carrots, canned corn, and apples.

Ava decided a pie chart (circle graph) would be the best way to display the totals. A total of one hundred forty-three points was scored over the course of her four week experiment.

7) Pumpkin scored six more points than carrots. How many points did pumpkin score?

8) How many points did corn receive over the entire four weeks?

Conclusions:

Ava concluded that her hypothesis was incorrect because the majority of the horses liked the corn better.

She thought about why that might be; the horses might have liked the corn more because corn is in sweet feed and other things so they’re used to it.

She also observed the horses started liking all of the foods but still had a favourite.

Horses don’t really like apples as much as people think. In horse movies, they use apples often for treats but horses Ava found they didn’t like them as much as other foods.

Ava wants to follow up on her research.

“Once their favorite treat has been discovered, then something I can test is to see if they will work for a treat.”

Application:

This project will help horse trainers know what treats horses like best.

Thank you Ava, for sharing your project with Horse Lover’s Math!

1) What kind of graph did Ava use to display her data? Answer: Ava used a vertical bar graph to display her data.

2) Which treat did the horses like the best? Answer: Canned corn.

3) Which treat was the least favourite? Answer: Apples

4) Did Deef (horse 1) eat any of the treats? Answer: No. He only smelled the apples, pumpkin and carrots.

5) Sparky (horse 4) scored two fours in his section of the graph. What does this tell you about how Sparky interacted with the carrots and corn? Answer: Sparky smelled both the carrots and corn and ate all of each of the treats.

6) Divot (horse 2) received a ‘3’ for corn. What does this tell you about how Divot interacted with the corn? Answer: This could mean two things. One, that Divot ate all of the corn. It could also mean that he smelled the corn and tasted it.

7) Pumpkin scored six more points than carrots. How many points did pumpkin score? Answer: 23 + 6 = 29. Pumpkin scored 29 points.

8) How many points did corn receive over the entire four weeks? Answer: 143 − (20 + 30 + 29 + 23) = 143 − 102 = 41. Corn received a total of 41 points during the four week experiment.

Related Posts

Here’s a link to an article about a current research project that asks the question, “Do pregnant mares have cravings like pregnant women?” Cierra Crowell is conducting a gestational palatability project, looking at the eating habits and preferences of five gestating mares compared to five nongestating mares. The study will examine how the horses respond to various foods over the length of their pregnancy, with the goal of understanding more about pregnant mares’ eating patterns https://buff.ly/2HmY15p

Merci pour les informations

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Funding received for 10 new equine research projects

Morris Animal Foundation gave 10 grants to find more ways of advancing equine health

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Morris Animal Foundation (MAF) announced its selection of 10 new grants dedicated to enhancing equine health, and specifically, the well-being of domesticated horses, ponies, donkeys, and mules. “We are excited to fund these research proposals that will advance equid health," said Kathy Tietje, PhD, MBA, chief program officer at MAF, in the release. "Through these grants, we aim to elevate the quality of life, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for horses, ponies, donkeys and mules." 1

According to an article from EquiManagement, it is estimated that the number of horses in the United States has decreased by 23% in the last 10 years. 2 However, data from the American Horse Council’s 2017 equine impact study, 3 reveals that 1.3% of the US population owns horses, 29.2% of American household members participate in equine-related activities but do not own a horse, and 13.2% spectate at horse events but do not own or participate. This demonstrates that almost a third of US households own horses or participate in some way in the equine world, which is positive news for the equine industry. 2,3

MAF’s call for more equine-focused research can help improve equine veterinary practice as a whole. The 10 recipients are: 1

• Claire Ricci-Bonot, University of LincoIn, United Kingdom; "An Exploration of the Nature of Separation-Related Problems in the Horse." Researchers will use survey tools to learn more about separation anxiety in horses, including its different forms and situational triggers.
• Angela Gaesser, University of Pennsylvania; "What Role Does Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Pathway Play in the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Equine Osteoarthritis." Researchers will study if a signaling pathway contributes to the progression of osteoarthritis and if a novel treatment targeting this pathway can help affected horses.
• Edward J. Knowles, Royal Veterinary College, United Kingdom; "Insights into the Pathogenesis of Equine Metabolic Syndrome: Plasma Amino Acid and Acylcarnitine Profiles in Ponies with Insulin Dysregulation." Researchers will learn more about insulin resistance and laminitis in horses and develop cost-effective tools to monitor these patients better.
• Serena Ceriotti, Auburn University; "Effect of Omeprazole Treatment on the Pharmacokinetics of Orally Administered Flunixin Meglumine in Adult Horses: A Pilot Study." Researchers will study the anti-ulcer drug omeprazole, often prescribed with the NSAID flunixin meglumine and its impact on the latter drug's ability to reduce pain in horses effectively.
• Izabela de Assis Rocha, University of Kentucky; "Investigation of the Immunopathogenesis of Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis." Researchers will study why a small percentage of horses infected with the causative parasite Sarcocystis neurona are afflicted with a severe neurological disease called equine protozoal myeloencephalitis while other infected horses are unaffected.
• Sriveny Dangoudoubiyam, Purdue University; "Determining the Role of Dense Granule Protein, SnGRA9, in Sarcocystis neurona Infection." Researchers will study how a protein helps the parasite Sarcocystis neurona grow and reproduce in infected horses.
• Breanna Sheahan, North Carolina State University; "Identifying CFTR Inhibition as a Treatment for Equine Diarrhea Using an In Vitro Patient-Derived Organoid Platform." Researchers will use an organoid platform, a 3D cell culture, to study a potential new treatment for severe diarrhea in horses.
• Kristen Conn, University of Saskatchewan, Canada; "Understanding the Chromatin Regulation of Lytic Equine Herpesvirus 1 (EHV1) Gene Expression." Researchers will work to understand better how EHV1 causes disease and use this information to inform the development of improved treatments.
• Carrie J. Finno, University of California, Davis; "Unraveling the Genetic Etiology of Equine Neuroaxonal Dystrophy in Quarter Horses and Warmbloods." Researchers will search for causative genes associated with a common neurological disease in horses called equine neuroaxonal dystrophy/degenerative myeloencephalopathy or eNAD/EDM.
• Thilo Pfau, University of Calgary, Canada; "A Team-Based Approach to Monitoring Gait Symmetry: Hoof Care Providers, Horse Owners and Veterinarians Working Toward Prevention of Lameness." Researchers will partner with hoof care providers, veterinarians and owners to evaluate the feasibility of using video technology to monitor horse gait changes.
• Morris Animal Foundation funds 10 equine-focused projects. News release. Morris Animal Foundation. January 18, 2024. Accessed January 30, 2024. https://www.morrisanimalfoundation.org/article/foundation-announces-grant-recipients-equine-health-studies
• Grice AL. The reality of equine practice in 2023. EquiManagament. April 25, 2023. Accessed January 30, 2024. https://equimanagement.com/business-development/financial/the-reality-of-equine-practice-in-2023/
• Economic impact of the United States horse industry. American Horse Council. 2017. Accessed January 30, 2024. https://horsecouncil.org/resources/2017-economic-impact-study-facts/

Innovation and insights to support the veterinary profession

Chewy president Mita Malhotra joins The Vet Blast Podcast to discuss supporting veterinary professionals through innovation

AAEP announces initiatives to recruit and retain equine veterinary professionals

The Commission of Equine Veterinary Sustainability aims to address areas in need of improvement

What you need to know about GFI #256 and the changing landscape of compounding medicine

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Generic therapy for equine joint disease returns to the market

The injectable treatment from Vetoquinol was last available for use in 2015.

3 must-reads for World Horse Day 2024

Check out these 3 article on the latest news in equine medicine

2 Commerce Drive Cranbury, NJ 08512

609-716-7777

Program Purpose The goal of this program is to fund equine research by established investigators. The Foundation for the Horse seeks discovery through innovative projects in areas of equine medicine that will advance the science needed to improve the health and welfare of the horse.

Research Projects The Foundation is seeking proposals to complete research on areas important to horse health. Research applications on any topic will be considered for funding, and all investigators are encouraged to apply. Areas of particular interest include musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and endocrine disease. Lameness, laminitis, colic, and development of diagnostic technology are areas considered to be important and in need of investigation.

Eligibility : Individuals with a background in equine research and a previous record of research publication are encouraged to submit a proposal.

Amount/Budget : The project budget should be for a maximum of $50,000 annually. The budget may include graduate student support, care of horses, consumable supplies, research service contracts and publication costs. Funding for equipment and faculty salary will not be allowed. NOTE: The Foundation will provide overhead of 10% of the grant to be included in the final $50,000 or less budget.

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• Science Fair Project Ideas for Kids, Middle & High School Students ⋅

Science Fair Project Ideas: Equine

Science Fair Project Ideas Using Guinea Pigs

Developing a science fair project that wows the judges is the highlight of many students’ school year. The students who do well in science fair competitions are not always the students who excel in science. Choose a project based on your unique interests, such as a love of horses. Combine an interest in horses, throw in a dash of science and enthusiasm, and you have a recipe for science fair perfection.

Horse Display Project

A fairly simple science fair project involves identifying the different body parts of a horse. Perfect for younger elementary students, this project involves drawing or tracing a horse on to a poster board and labeling the animal’s body parts. Older students with an interest in zoology could adapt this project to include a series of posters illustrating different horse breeds and using scientific names for the anatomy of horses. Consider using model horses to display and illustrate breed characteristics in addition to the posters.

Saddles and Riding Equipment

Experimenting with various riding equipment helps you adapt you love of horseback riding into an effective, science project. Work with riders at a stable who use different types of saddles and other equipment. Track how the different equipment change a rider’s gait or posture and affect the horses’ performance.

Do certain types of saddles or saddle pads keep horses cooler than others? Ask questions about how equipment could make a horse or rider a more effective competitor in particular equine events.

Equine Stride Length

Like humans, the angles of a horse’s legs and shoulder differ from horse to horse and from breed to breed. Measure a horse’s leg and shoulder angles, and compare and contrast the data to determine how those angles affect the animal’s physical movement. This project will allow you to experiment with different ideas of kinesiology, or the study of movement.

Also experiment with how stride length affects a horse’s competitive length. Does a certain leg length, horse height or shoulder angle make the animal a better runner or jumper? These projects are perfect if you enjoy spending time around horses, stables and horse competitions.

Science fair projects for students interested in equine veterinary science could involve determining if a horse’s living conditions affect the development of parasites. Consider working with an equine veterinarian to develop case studies and gain access to a variety of equine living conditions. Are horses left in a pasture more likely to develop parasites than horses living in a stable? This type of project is more appropriate for older, high school students because students will need to collect and analyze a significant amount of data.

Horse Biology

If you have an interest in zoology and biology, you should consider developing a project about how a horse’s body systems work. Understanding a horse’s digestive, cardiovascular, respiratory and muscular systems displays a wonderfully researched project. The key to this project is display and presentation. Create a spectacular presentation involving posters, models and photographs that highlight and explain everything you have learned about a horse’s biological makeup.

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Royal Veterinary College researcher-clinicians are involved with world-class research that not only benefits their own patients but also helps the global veterinary community support veterinary health and welfare. 

Some of the current significant research areas are:

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• Pituitary Pars Intermedia Dysfunction (PPID or Equine Cushing’s disease)
• Elastic Band Resistance Research
• Lameness Research

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The Fiscal Health of Michigan Local Governments 2021 - 2022

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Following local government’s unprecedented responsibilities as first responders to the COVID-19 pandemic and their subsequent infusions of aid from the federal government, it is essential to check in on the fiscal health of Michigan’s local governments. This report analyzes local government financial data reported to the State of Michigan in 2021 and 2022 to develop a set of indicators to capture various aspects of local fiscal health. It finds that for short-term measures related to healthy reserves, adequate cash, and balanced budgets, most communities are doing well. However, when it comes to measures of long-term ability to meet financial and service obligations, there is more variability. Some communities struggle with high liability burdens from debt, pensions, and retiree healthcare benefits. There are also fairly wide ranges in the amounts of spending per capita and the share of budgets spent on public safety, suggesting that communities vary in their ability and/or desire to provide local services. Part of this variation may be driven by local governments’ lack of autonomy over revenue policy. They have very limited ability to alter revenues either from property taxes - on which counties and cities are more heavily reliant - or from revenue sharing - on which villages and townships are more heavily reliant. Looking forward, it will be important to monitor local finances not only to ensure that short-term indicators remain strong, but also to proactively respond to any looming warning signs associated with long-term liabilities and inadequate service delivery.   

Key findings

• For short-term measures related to healthy reserves, adequate cash, and balanced budgets, most communities are doing well. However, when it comes to measures of long-term ability to meet financial and service obligations, there is more variability.
• Some communities struggle with high liability burdens from debt, pensions, and retiree healthcare benefits. There are also fairly wide ranges in the amounts of spending per capita and the share of budgets spent on public safety, suggesting that communities vary in their ability and/or desire to provide local services.
• Local governments’ lack of autonomy over revenue policy can be a challenge. They have very limited ability to alter revenues either from property taxes - on which counties and cities are more heavily reliant - or from revenue sharing - on which villages and townships are more heavily reliant.
• Looking forward, it will be important to monitor local finances not only to ensure that short-term indicators remain strong, but also to proactively respond to any looming warning signs associated with long-term liabilities and inadequate service delivery.
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• Michigan Local Government Fiscal Health Project
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• General fund balance

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Press Release - 12/01/2022 General

Six Impactful Equine Research Projects Supported by The Foundation for the Horse

Newsdate: Thursday December 1, 2022, 7:00 am Location: LEXINGTON, Kentucky

The Foundation for the Horse has awarded $110,277 for six innovative equine research projects conducted by AAEP-member graduate students, residents, or postdoctoral fellows.

Closed eyes of gray horse reveal caring relationship between embracing man and horse

Equine research is one of three pillars of impact along with education and horses at risk supported by The Foundation. © 2022 by EQUUS New window.

Over the last four years, The Foundation has provided $436,675 to support meaningful equine research by up-and-coming investigators as it continues to help pioneer medical advances in equine health.

“Scientific discovery and innovation bring the future of equine medicine into reality,” said Dr. Anthony Blikslager of The Foundation’s Research Review Group. “This Foundation is unrelentingly dedicated to the veterinary profession and to the horse’s health.”

For the third consecutive year, The Foundation was joined by the Thoroughbred Education and Research Foundation (TERF) in helping make these research projects possible. This year TERF, whose mission is to make racing safer through research and education, increased its support by funding three important research projects with the potential to impact the health and safety of Thoroughbred athletes.

The supported research projects with researcher names and summaries follow:

Dual licensing of mesenchymal stem cells to enhance tendon healing (TERF sponsored) - Dr. Drew W. Koch, North Carolina State University

Utilize in vitro co-culture assays to determine if IL-1b and/or TGF-b2 licensed mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) positively affect equine superficial digital flexor tendon tenocyte growth, function, and expression of tendon-relevant genes and proteins to support future in vivo studies examining licensed MSC therapy for equine tendon injury.

In vitro analysis of the optimization of stem cell therapy for the treatment of osteoarthritis using equine synovial fluid derived from mesenchymal stem cells with a soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitor (TERF sponsored) - Dr. Alexandra Carlson, University of Tennessee

To determine if using soluble epoxide hydrolase inhibitors (sEHi) with stem cell therapy can improve stem cell activity by reducing inflammation in the joint while also eliminating adverse effects on the stem cells that typical anti-inflammatory treatment can have.

Clinical evaluation of a rapid test strip, PCR, and enriched-aerobic culture for the detection of salmonella enterica in equine feces - Dr. Emily Herring, University of Georgia

Evaluate the rapid test’s performance, compared to culture and PCR, for the detection of salmonella in equine fecal samples by performing all three tests in parallel on the same samples to assess their ability to determine whether a horse is infected with salmonella correctly.

Short-term oil dietary supplementation affects oocyte and cumulus cell metabolism in old mares - Dr. Giovana Di Donato Catandi, Colorado State University

Investigate how oils rich in omega-6 or omega-3 fatty acids affect the metabolic function of the oocyte and ovarian follicle cells and determine if additional dietary supplements can optimize fatty acid use in the ovarian follicle while reducing potential side effects.

A pilot study on an experimental model for Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) in horses (TERF sponsored) - Dr. Lauren Smanik, Colorado State University

To develop an experimental model of Palmar Osteochondral Disease (POD) that would allow researchers to study the progression in a controlled, prospective manner that will allow for future studies on variables that may affect lesion severity and facilitate the development of an optimized treatment plan.

Investigation of MARCKS protein as a novel therapeutic target to decreased neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in equine asthma - Dr. Bethanie L. Cooper, North Carolina State University

To identify novel treatment alternatives to steroid therapy for horses with equine asthma through neutrophil extracellular traps, released by airway neutrophils, as potential therapeutic targets.

Equine research is one of three pillars of impact—along with education and horses at risk—supported by The Foundation. The 2023 application window for this research grant program will open early next year. To learn more, visit https://www.foundationforthehorse.org/graduate-student-fellow-resident-research-grants/ .

About The Foundation for the Horse Established in 1994, The Foundation for the Horse is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to improving the welfare of the horse through Education, Research, and Horses at Risk. It is governed and stewarded by world-renowned equine veterinarians and equine stakeholders. In 2022, and for the second consecutive year, The Foundation awarded over $1 million in scholarships and grants to impact equine health and well-being throughout the U.S. and developing countries. To learn more, visit http://www.foundationforthehorse.org

Press release by Keith Kleine

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Developing a risk prediction engine for relapse in opioid use disorder

CERSI Collaborators: Jessilyn Dunn, PhD; Jennifer Goldsack, MChem, MA, MBA, OLY; Lauren Lederer; Candice Taguibao, MPH; Danielle Stefko; Samantha McClenahan, PhD

FDA Collaborators: Anindita Saha; Leeda Rashid, MD; Jisun Yi, MD; Roxane Modares, MPH, Gioia Guerrieri, DO; Robert Wright, PhD

CERSI Subcontractors: Flying Buttress Associates- Jeph Herrin, PhD

CERSI In-Kind Collaborators: OptumLabs - William Crown, PhD; University of San Francisco - Sanket Dhruva, MD

Non-Federal Entity Collaborators: Johnson and Johnson- Karla Childers, MSJ, Paul Coplan, ScD, MBA, Stephen Johnston, MSc

Project Start Date: September 8, 2023

Regulatory Science Challenge

In the United States, 2.7 million people ages 12 or older reported suffering from opioid use disorder (OUD) in 2020, with relapse rates of 65-70%. In addition, 75% of overdose deaths in the U.S. are due to opioids and the cost of the epidemic is estimated at $1.5 trillion.

This Triangle CERSI project, which includes a collaboration between Duke University, University of North Carolina, and the Digital Medicine Society (DiMe), will build a protocol for a tool that uses data from digital sensor technologies, like wearables, to predict when people affected by OUD might relapse. Investigators aim to generate a scientific plan to use consumer technologies and the data they collect to predict relapse and to inform early-intervention strategies to provide every person affected by OUD with the care they need, when they need it most.

Project Description and Goals

Prioritizing equity and inclusion, this project will:

• Assess/select the phenotype(s), or observable physical properties, of persons/patients with OUD on which to base the study protocol.
• Study the behaviors/physiologic responses connected to opioid use relapse that can be detected with digital sensor technology.
• Explore appropriate technologies that can be used to collect this data.
• Create a protocol for a study to develop and test an OUD risk prediction tool.

To complete this work, investigators will:

• Review existing research to determine what is currently known about relapse in OUD (e.g., physiological, behavioral, social).
• Seek perspectives from a diverse set of experts, people affected by OUD, and their health care providers.
• Develop a scientific plan for an OUD risk prediction tool, informed by these findings.

Findings from this project will inform the development of an evidence-based, scientific plan to build an equitable, data-driven tool to predict relapse in a person living with OUD. This tool offers a low burden, high reach, and scalable solution for preventing lapses & relapses for all individuals with OUD, offering a pathway to improve care for all people affected by OUD.

Research Outcomes/Results

Two hundred and twenty-three patients with a mean age of 65 years completed the survey. These patients preferred a higher chance of good biopsy outcomes, and a lower chance of erectile dysfunction caused by the treatment and urinary incontinence after treatment. The patients stated in the survey that they are willing to accept:

• a 15.1%-point increase in erectile dysfunction caused by the treatment to achieve a 10%-point increase in a good biopsy outcome after HIFU ablation, and
• an 8.5%-point increase in urinary incontinence for a 10%-point increase in a good biopsy.

Also, further analysis revealed that patients who thought their cancer was more aggressive were more willing to tolerate urinary incontinence. Younger men were willing to tolerate less erectile dysfunction risk than older men. Respondents with a greater than college level of education were less willing to tolerate erectile dysfunction or urinary incontinence.

Research Impacts

Incorporating patient preference information into decisions that FDA makes about regulating devices is one of the major goals of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH). Study findings show that patients prefer specific outcomes related to prostate ablation therapies like HIFU. The study results may help inform the design and regulation of current and future prostate tissue ablation devices by providing information about outcomes that patients most desire.

Publications

• PMID: 34677594; Citation: Wallach JD, Deng Y, McCoy RG, Dhruva SS, Herrin J, Berkowitz A, Polley EC, Quinto K, Gandotra C, Crown W, Noseworthy P, Yao X, Shah ND, Ross JS, Lyon TD. Real-world Cardiovascular Outcomes Associated With Degarelix vs Leuprolide for Prostate Cancer Treatment.  JAMA Netw Open. 2021;4(10):e2130587. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.30587 .
• PMID: 36191949; Citation: Deng Y, Polley EC, Wallach JD, Dhruva SS, Herrin J, Quinto K, Gandotra C, Crown W, Noseworthy P, Yao X, Lyon TD, Shah ND, Ross JS, McCoy RG. Emulating the GRADE trial using real world data: retrospective comparative effectiveness study. BMJ . 2022 Oct 3;379:e070717. doi: 10.1136/bmj-2022-070717 .

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Advice for the Unmotivated

• Robin Abrahams
• Boris Groysberg

How to reignite your enthusiasm for work

Employee disengagement is rampant in the workplace. We’ve all experienced it as customers encountering unhelpful retail clerks and as colleagues dealing with apathetic teammates. But what happens when you yourself feel dead at work?

This article describes what you as an individual can do to sustain your motivation or recover it, even in the most stultifying of jobs. After synthesizing research on this challenge and experimenting with various strategies, the authors have developed a process for recharging yourself called DEAR.

The first step is to detach and objectively analyze your situation so that you can make wise choices about it, instead of reacting in a fight-or-flight way. At day’s end, review what went well at your job and then mentally disconnect from it to give yourself a break. Meditation and exercise can help you do that and will improve your mood and cognitive function. Next, show empathy. Practice self-care, make friends, recognize the accomplishments of others, seek their views, and help them. Research shows that this combats burnout. Third, take action: achieve small wins, invest in rewarding outside activities, redefine your responsibilities, and turn uninteresting tasks into games. Ask yourself how someone you admire would behave in your situation, and dress in a way that projects confidence. Last, reframe your thinking: Focus on the informal roles you enjoy at work, your job’s higher-order purpose, and how others benefit from your work. All these techniques will improve your mental health and increase the energy you bring to your job—even if it is not what you’d like it to be.

In virtually everyone’s career, there comes a time when motivation and interest vanish. The usual tasks feel tedious. It’s hard to muster the energy for new projects. Though we go through the motions of being good employees or managers, we’re not really “there.” We become ghosts or zombies: the working dead.

• Robin Abrahams is a research associate at Harvard Business School.
• BG Boris Groysberg is a professor of business administration in the Organizational Behavior unit at Harvard Business School and a faculty affiliate at the school’s Race, Gender & Equity Initiative. He is the coauthor, with Colleen Ammerman, of Glass Half-Broken: Shattering the Barriers That Still Hold Women Back at Work (Harvard Business Review Press, 2021). bgroysberg

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