Managing obesity in horses- how vets can help horse owners

Host:

Welcome to the Bova UK Podcast, where we explore diseases from diagnosis through to management. These episodes are designed for registered vets and veterinary nurses. If you’re listening as a pet owner, please consult your local veterinary surgeon for personalised advice.
Today, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Tamzin Furtado. Tamzin is a social scientist with a background in global health and a specific interest in the connections between human and animal wellbeing. She’s also completed a PhD at the University of Liverpool, focused on how we can improve the management of obesity in horses.
Tamzin, welcome! How are you today?

Tamzin:

Thank you so much. I’m really well, thanks. It’s lovely to be here.

Host:

Let’s start with your research. Your PhD focused on obesity in horses, particularly from the owner’s perspective. Could you expand on that?

Tamzin:

Sure. My PhD explored how owners manage obesity in horses—why it’s so hard to prevent or reduce it, even though vets know a lot about the clinical side. There’s been plenty of veterinary research on risk factors and treatment, but very little on how owners actually manage horses day-to-day. So we used social science methods like interviews and focus groups to understand the human behaviours and beliefs behind equine obesity.

Host:

And what are some of the biggest barriers vets face when trying to address obesity with owners?

Tamzin:

Two big ones: recognition and routine. Many owners genuinely don’t recognise that their horse is overweight. They’ll describe them as “chunky” or “a good doer” and think it’s normal. The second barrier is changing deeply ingrained routines—like feeding practices or turnout decisions—that owners often take pride in. These aren’t just habits, they’re emotionally meaningful, and can be hard to shift.

Host:

At what point do owners typically become receptive to weight management advice?

Tamzin:

Sadly, it’s often not until the horse develops laminitis. That’s the tipping point where owners suddenly engage—but by then, the horse is already suffering. It’s incredibly frustrating for vets, and heartbreaking for the horse. That’s why we’re working on tools and messaging to engage owners earlier, before it reaches crisis point.

Host:

What are some practical communication tips for vets when addressing obesity on a routine visit?

Tamzin:

Start by asking, “What do you think of your horse’s weight?” Let the owner tell you where they’re at—do they recognise the issue, or are they unaware? That saves time and avoids confrontation. Avoid euphemisms like “looking well” or “in show condition” because owners will take that as a positive. If you do see a pony in ideal condition—especially a native type—point it out and praise it. Positive reinforcement goes a long way.

Host:

That’s such a useful tip. Now, you’ve also been doing amazing work with the National Showing Council. Could you tell us more?

Tamzin:

Yes! We’ve been piloting a “Healthiest Body Condition” rosette at showing events. A vet or trained scorer goes into the ring and condition-scores each horse, then awards a rosette to the one in the healthiest condition. It doesn’t interfere with judging—it’s an additional award. It’s been really well received, especially by owners who’ve worked hard to keep their horses lean. We’ve had great feedback and growing support from the National Showing Council.

Host:

That’s brilliant. For anyone listening who’d like to get involved, can they reach out to you?

Tamzin:

Absolutely. We’re always looking for vets who can volunteer to condition score at shows. If you’re interested, please email office@bova.co.uk and they’ll put you in touch with me.

Host:

Let’s talk about supporting owners once they’ve recognised the issue. What are some tips for vets to keep them engaged throughout the horse’s weight-loss journey?

Tamzin:

Three things:
Mental wellbeing of the horse. Owners worry about their horse being “miserable” on a diet. Reassure them that things like enrichment, turnout with companions, and forage variety can support mental health.
Tracking progress. If you can, use measurable data like insulin levels or condition scores. It gives owners something tangible to work towards.
Follow-up. If a revisit isn’t possible, suggest the owner sends you a photo update. It shows that you’re invested, and keeps them motivated.

Host:

What about involving others like farriers or vet nurses?

Tamzin:

Absolutely. Farriers are on yards regularly and often notice weight gain early. Vet nurses are underutilised in equine practice for this kind of work but have brilliant communication skills and can provide ongoing support. If nurses could do follow-ups or run weight clinics, that would be amazing.

Host:

Fantastic ideas. And are there online resources available for vets?

Tamzin:

Yes, the BEVA obesity toolkit is a great starting point—it includes clinical resources, communication tools, and printable materials for owners. There’s also the Blue Cross Fat Horse Slim guide, and a decision-making aid we developed that walks owners through practical changes. If there’s anything missing, I’m always happy to hear from people—just email me.

Host:

Perfect. We’ll pop those links in the episode notes. Finally, any closing thoughts?

Tamzin:

Just a huge thank you to all the vets tackling this. It can feel disheartening, but it’s probably one of the most impactful things you can do for equine welfare. Keep having those conversations, and know there’s growing support and resources behind you.

Host:

Tamzin, thank you so much. This has been an inspiring and insightful conversation. Keep up the fantastic work, and we hope to speak again soon.

Tamzin:

Thank you for having me. It’s been a pleasure.

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Disclaimer:

These podcasts are intended for registered vets and veterinary nurses. If you are a pet owner, please consult your veterinary surgeon directly regarding any concerns about your animal.