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
What if stress is affecting your mare far more deeply than you realise?
In this powerful episode, Dr Chris Mortensen shares research into how stress impacts mares, reproduction, hormones, blood flow, embryo quality, and behaviour.
Shelley and Kat dive into:
- Exercise-induced stress and fertility
- Hormone disruption and cycling
- Gut health and stress
- Laminitis and metabolic issues
- The role of blood flow in reproduction
- Why stressed plants may contribute to metabolic disease
- Practical strategies for mare management
This is an eye-opening conversation about the interconnectedness of stress, physiology, and horse welfare.
Dr Chris Mortensen is an equine nutritionist and researcher with expertise in equine reproduction, stress physiology, gut health, and performance nutrition. He completed his PhD at Texas A&M University researching the impact of stress and exercise on mare fertility and embryo quality, and now works with Poseidon Animal Health focusing on evidence-based equine health and nutrition.
Dr. Chris Mortensen, PhD
Head of Education, Poseidon Animal Health
Website: 🇺🇸 poseidonanimalhealth.com
Website: 🇦🇺 poseidonanimalhealth.com.au
Website: 🇳🇿 poseidonanimalhealth.co.nz
Research referred to in this episode:
Here are the citations formatted for your show notes:
1. Mortensen, C.J., Choi, Y.H., Hinrichs, K., Ing, N.H., Kraemer, D.C., Vogelsang, S.G., & Vogelsang, M.M. (2009). Embryo recovery from exercised mares* Animal Reproduction Science, 110(3-4), 237-244. [https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2008.01.015]
2. Smith, R.L., Vernon, K.L., Kelley, D.E., Gibbons, J.R., & Mortensen, C.J. (2012). Impact of moderate exercise on ovarian blood flow and early embryonic outcomes in mares. Journal of Animal Science, 90(10), 3770-3777. [https://doi.org/10.2527/jas2011-4713]
Special for Podcast Listeners!
Use coupon code: SHELLEYAPPLETON at the checkout of Poseidon Animal Health products to receive a discount.
Support Canter Therapy Podcast:
To find out more about Dr Shelley Appleton and Kathryn Christieson check out the Canter Therapy Podcast website: www.cantertherapy.com.au
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
