Lauren Emerson

Lauren is a HE Lecturer, predominantly within the equine courses at University Centre Askham Bryan. Lauren graduated with a first class honours degree in Equine Sports Science, which included a placement in Germany at an Arabian and Trakhener stud. Following on from her degree, her dissertation was published and she presented her academic poster at the International Society of Equitation Science Conference 2016. Lauren then went on and completed a Masters of Research in Animal Health and Welfare, to continue with her research into Equine Vibrissae. Following on from her research, The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) as of July, 2021 have changed their rules and regulations to disqualify any horses that have had their vibrissae trimmed without veterinary jurisdiction.

Outside of academia, Lauren spent some time working within the equestrian industry, managing yards, teaching, riding/ grooming, campaigning and working as an equestrian trade fair admin. Lauren’s qualifications and experience have taken her around the world, working in Europe and America.

Lauren is also an active member of the British Horse Society (BHS) and Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA).

Research Interests

Lauren’s research focus was on equine vibrissae (sensory whiskers) and the effects of trimming them. She began by looking at UK and German horse owners and their attitudes regarding trimming the whiskers. In her masters degree, she concentrated more on the role of whiskers to horses and how trimming them can directly affect the horse.

Current Research:

• Equine/Animal Behaviour
• Equine/Animal Welfare
• Horse/Human Interaction
• Equine/Rider Biomechanics
• Owner’s Influence

Citations or Public Presentations

Emerson, L, Griffin, K & Stevenson, A. (2016). Practice and attitudes regarding trimming of equine vibrissae (sensory whiskers) in the UK and Germany. Journal of Veterinary Behavior: Clinical Applications and Research. DOI:10.1016/j.jveb.2016.08.059, Emerson, L. 2016. Practice and attitudes regarding trimming of equine vibrissae (sensory whiskers) in the UK and Germany [PowerPoint presentation]. The Sustainable Equine, 8 July, Nottingham Trent University.