A study conducted by staff and student researchers at Hartpury University alongside HorseWorld and Welfare Aware, has demonstrated the effectiveness of track grazing systems in managing equine obesity.
The study, published in a special edition (Recent Advances in Equine Behaviour and Welfare) of the open access journal Animals, highlights the benefits of track grazing systems in reducing bodyweight in horses prone to weight gain, while maintaining their overall health and welfare.
This research, led by Lorna Cameron (Senior Lecturer at Hartpury University) and supported by an esteemed team of co-authors that included Abigale Kennedy (BSc (Hons) Equine Science with Foundation Year alum) and Sophie Armstrong (current MRes Equestrian Science student), Sarah Hollister (Head of Equine Welfare – HorseWorld), Meg Challinor (Equine Welfare Advisor – HorseWorld), and Kate Fletcher (Independent Welfare Consultant – WelfareAware) observed 19 horses at HorseWorld for four months. The horses were divided into two groups: those kept on track grazing systems and those in traditional restricted grazing paddocks. The study monitored various welfare indicators, including bodyweight, body condition score (BCS), hoof health, and behavioural measures.
Key findings from the study include:
- Horses on track grazing systems lost significantly more bodyweight compared to those in traditional paddocks. On average, horses on track systems lost 10.67kg, while those in restricted grazing paddocks gained 6.8kg.
- Despite the weight loss, BCS did not show significant changes, suggesting it may not be sensitive enough to detect subtle equine bodyweight changes.
- Hoof health and general welfare assessments remained stable across both grazing systems.
- Behavioural observations indicated no significant differences between the two groups.
The study underscores the potential of track grazing systems as a viable solution for managing equine obesity, particularly for horses with limited exercise options due to age or health conditions. The track systems, designed to increase movement and restrict grass intake, offer a balanced approach to weight management without compromising the horses’ welfare.
Lorna said: “Our findings suggest that track grazing systems can effectively help manage bodyweight in horses prone to obesity, while maintaining their health and welfare. This research provides valuable insights for horse owners and carers looking for practical solutions to address equine obesity.”
Sarah Hollister, Head of Equine Welfare at HorseWorld added: “At HorseWorld we had been using a track system approach for over a decade to help manage the bodyweight, and other health issues of some of the herd, with positive results but we were keen to pioneer the collection of scientific evidence to back up our findings. We were delighted that Hartpury University were keen to collaborate with us on this ground-breaking study, and hope that the findings will positively impact the welfare of equids in settings all over the world. We are so grateful to Hartpury University and the Pets Foundation; without their support and participation the project just wouldn’t have been possible.”
The study was supported by the Pets Foundation, which funded the construction of the track systems and the independent evaluation of their effectiveness.
Students at Hartpury University are actively encouraged to participate in research projects that actively aim to address current challenges within the equine industry. Students often present their findings at their Equestrian Research Club events as well as at the annual Alltech Hartpury Research Conference.
