301: How do you know what a horse likes to do? by Drimee Solariums and Monty Roberts University - Horsemanship Radio

In this episode of Horsemanship Radio, host Debbie Roberts-Lauks welcomes Dr. Ben Sykes, a world-renowned equine veterinarian and expert in equine gastric ulcer syndrome, to discuss the critical intersection of horse health, behavior, and well-being. Dr. Sykes shares his journey from a non-horsey background to becoming a leading advocate for horse-centric care, emphasizing that horses are not just physical athletes but sentient beings with emotional and behavioral needs. He stresses that true equine welfare goes beyond disease prevention to include mental well-being, freedom of choice, social connection, and the fundamental importance of forage in a horse's life. The conversation highlights how modern horse management must evolve to support holistic health, with practical, incremental changes like walk-in, walk-out stalls and behavioral training that prioritize the horse’s experience. Dr. Sykes challenges the assumption that behavioral issues are always due to ulcers, advocating instead for a broader view of pain and stress in horses, and promotes a 'tools in the toolbox' approach to gradual improvement. Key takeaways include: 1) Hay is foundational to equine health—both physically and behaviorally; 2) Eating is a behavior tied to safety and stress, so monitoring actual intake is crucial; 3) The three Fs—Friends, Forage, and Freedom—are essential pillars of horse well-being; 4) Training should be horse-centric, focusing on enjoyment and mental health; 5) Rest days and mental recovery are as important as physical conditioning; 6) Behavioral changes often signal pain, not just ulcers; 7) Small, consistent changes are more sustainable than drastic overhauls; 8) The horse-human relationship should be mutually beneficial, not one-sided. The episode concludes with a powerful message: horses thrive when they feel safe, valued, and engaged in meaningful work.