The International Society for Equitation Science (ISES) held its 9th annual conference in the United States. The scientific days were hosted at the University of Delaware, in Newark, and the practical day was hosted at the University of Pennsylvania New Bolton Center, in Kennett Square.

The conference brought together 110 delegates from 14 countries to discuss topics related to equine behavior and welfare, as well as horse-human interactions. The Horse staff members were in attendance to provide conference coverage, so watch TheHorse.com in the coming weeks for full-length articles on topics presented.

Throughout the conference four plenary talks were delivered, commencing with a jointly presented talk by Natalie Waran, BSc (Hons), PhD, of the University of Edinburgh, and Hayley Randle, PhD, of Duchy College, on advancing evidence based practice and learning in equitation. The presentation encouraged horse handlers to use the best evidence possible when making decisions related to equine management, training, and performance.

A plenary lecture presented by Hilary Clayton, BVMS, PhD, Dipl. ACVSMR, MRCVS, of Michigan State University, provided research updates and new insights on the complex topic of the human/horse/saddle interface. Clayton reminded researchers of common problems that can arise when using electronic saddle pressure mats