Summary
Some types of stress include various physical stresses that are based on the physical makeup of the animal and its ability to respond to changes in diet, injury, etc. Psychological stresses are based on a horse’s personality and its perception of life. This presentation provides information on how horses cope with stress, different types of stress and how we can minimize stress in our horses lives.
Presenter Information
Dr. Carey Williams joined Rutgers University in July 2003 as its Equine Extension Specialist, taking an active role in teaching, conducting research and working with the equine and academic communities to ensure the viability of the horse industry in New Jersey. A Wisconsin native, Dr. Williams earned her Ph.D. in animal and poultry sciences (with an emphasis on equine nutrition and exercise physiology) in June 2003 from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She holds a Master’s Degree in equine nutrition, also from Virginia Tech, and a Bachelor’s Degree from Colorado State University.
She has worked extensively at Virginia Tech as a Pratt Fellow in Equine Nutrition, has designed and conducted various research projects dealing with equine nutrition and exercise physiology and assisted in the breeding, care and feeding of approximately 100 horses. At Rutgers, Dr. Williams maintains a herd of Standardbred horses for exercise physiology research; more specifically how we can decrease the stress of intense exercise. She also works with agricultural agents within Rutgers Cooperative Extension and the Natural Resource Conservation Service to carryout equine pasture management initiatives.
She is a member of many associations, including the American Association of Veterinary Nutritionists, the Equine Science Society and is a Certified Animal Behavior Consultant for the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants. As a hobby she trains and competes with her Thoroughbred mare at various regional dressage shows and horse trials.
