Stress outcome research for horses working with PTSI military veterans.

Equine therapy (ET) has been increasing in popularity and is well recognised globally that participants in ET with developmental, cognitive and phycological disabilities including veterans with post-traumatic stress injury (PTSI) subject to ET have had positive outcomes on their mental health and wellbeing. This interaction between horses and participants during ET have resulted in feelings of increased confidence, a rise in self-esteem and a reduction in stress for the participant. Hardly any research has been done on the stress it causes to the horse. It is imperative that we consider the horses stress levels as it is our duty to ensure the health and welfare of horses used for human gain. This project will outline what effects working with Veterans with PTS with have on the horses own stress levels. Working alongside experienced horse trainers and veterans we need qualified Equine Veterinarians and vet nurses to assist with taking bloods and/or salver swabs for cortisol and oxytocin levels , experience in thermography ( include eye temperature taking) preferred. You will be required for 1-2 days (date not confirmed due to covid-19). Wiltshire / Oxford UK