New module for horse enthusiasts
Campus |
The new module covers a wide range of topics such as horse nutrition, anatomy of the digestive system, horse breeding and sport as well as animal welfare standards. Practical insights are also on the agenda. For example, students will learn about stallion husbandry and insemination techniques on an excursion to the Marbach State Stud. Renowned experts contribute different perspectives in guest lectures, for example from the field of horse breeding. In addition, the lecture deals with aspects of high practical relevance, such as ration design or hoof health.
Lecturer with extensive experience with horses
Privatdozentin Dr. Silvia Wein has been recruited as an external lecturer for the module. She contributes her extensive experience in equine science, particularly in the field of animal nutrition. "A balanced diet that is consistently geared towards the anatomical and physiological conditions of horses is of fundamental importance to me," says Silvia Wein. Decades of keeping horses herself and active participation in equestrian sports have enabled her to combine her scientific knowledge with practical experience. "For me, the non-violent treatment of horses is at the heart of my philosophy. A respectful relationship and empathetic communication are essential in order to build and maintain a harmonious partnership between humans and horses," says the lecturer. Her involvement guarantees a high standard of teaching and a direct link to current research and practice.
Module teaches sought-after skills
The head of the Professorship of Animal Nutrition and Metabolism and initiator of the module, Prof. Julia Steinhoff-Wagner, explains: "In view of the large number of vacancies and the fact that our graduates often find employment before completing their studies, we recognize a considerable need for specialized agricultural scientists." . With the new course, she therefore hopes to inspire students to explore specific topics in animal science, particularly in the field of equine science. "We believe that this module not only deepens knowledge about horses, but also helps to further increase animal welfare in general," emphasizes Steinhoff-Wagner.
Further information
- The lecturer Dr. Silvia Wein worked as a veterinarian in the field of gynaecology and andrology for horses in Great Britain. She wrote her dissertation in this field. Subsequently, she focused on the influence of nutrition on fat metabolism and associated diseases and trained as a veterinary specialist in animal nutrition. She also habilitated in nutritional physiology and intensively studied the bioavailability of secondary plant substances, including in horses.
- Prof. Julia Steinhoff-Wagner's commitment to equine science is further underlined by her voluntary work in the Society for the Promotion of Equine Science. She has also held a trainer's license for riding as a competitive sport from the German Olympic Sports Confederation for over 20 years.
