Kathryn Christieson (BAVBioSc, Dip EPT, RHDP) is a hoofcare practitioner who has worked in the industry full time for nearly ten years. Her day to day work involves trimming, composite shoeing, glue on shoe application, hot shoeing and boot fitting services. She works collaboratively with veterinarians, bodyworkers and trainers to achieve the best results for clients in performance and rehabilitation.
Kathryn has a commitment to education and continuous improvement. She co-hosts ‘Canter Therapy Podcast’ and co-founded the International School of Integrative Hoofcare Australia. She is passionate about building community and the sharing of knowledge with as many people as possible.
Outside her professional pursuits, Kathryn dedicates her time to the art of dressage, immersing herself in lessons and clinics to continually refine her skills. Her passion extends beyond riding, encompassing a profound interest in animal behavior and the intricacies of their minds. Kathryn explores the realms of self-awareness, recognising the relationship between personal growth and her horse’s well-being. This commitment reflects her holistic approach, where the pursuit of knowledge and personal development intertwines seamlessly with her love for horses.
Canter Therapy – Dr Shelley Appleton & Kathryn Christieson
Horses did not evolve for stalls, separation, transport, or high-pressure routines, yet this is the reality most horses live in today. That mismatch creates chronic stress, and the consequences do not stay hidden. They show up in digestion, behaviour, performance, soundness, and long-term health.
In this episode, Dr Chris Mortensen (Poseidon Animal Health) explains why stress and gut health sit at the centre of so many modern horse problems, and why missing this link keeps people chasing symptoms instead of causes. We unpack what the hindgut actually does, how stress alters digestion, and why the gut microbiome plays such a powerful role in how horses cope with domesticated life. Chris also clearly explains the difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and postbiotics, cutting through common misconceptions that cost horse owners time, money, and progress.
If you care about making better decisions for your horse, this conversation will change how you think about stress, feeding, and what “supporting the horse” really means.
Show Notes:
Dr Chris Mortensen
Dr Chris Mortensen is a PhD-qualified equine nutritionist and international educator specialising in stress physiology, gut health, and equine performance.
Poseidon Animal Health
Poseidon Animal Health develops evidence-based equine nutrition and gut health solutions, working with leading scientists to support long-term horse health and resilience.
To find out more about Dr Chris and Poseidon Animal Health Products visit the Poseidon Animal Health website:
https://poseidonanimalhealth.com.au
To receive 10% off Poseidon Animal Health Products Click HEREor use code SHELLEYAPPLETON at checkout.
Services include:
Trimming
Trimming for soundness and performance including the application of hoofarmor
Boot Fitting
Boot fitting consultations for Scoot Boot, Equine Fusion, Easycare, Cavallo, Renegade and more!
Shoeing
Correct shoeing with an emphasis on balance and alignment for sustainable performance
Rehabilitation
For acute and chronic pathology including the use of glue ons
Training and Qualifications
Bachelor of Animal and Veterinary Bioscience (2015)
Diploma of Equine Podiotherapy through the Australian College of Equine Podiotherapy (2017)
Attended the Mustad Conference in 2018
Level 1 Endorsement with Daisy Haven Farm (Recognising Hoof Distortion Practitioner)
In 2018 Kathryn attended Pacific Coast Horseshoeing School in California, USA, finishing top of her class
Attended the ELPC Vet Farrier Laminitis Conference 2022
Attended VetPD Foot Lameness & Podiatry workshop 2022
Currently completing Cert 4 Farriery
