Study involving P.A. area horses examines PTSD treatment for emergency responders

Mar 16, 2023

A research study is being done in the Prince Albert area trying to determine whether or not horses can help emergency responders managing PTSD.

Cartier Farms has partnered with McMaster University to see if Equine Assisted Learning (EAL) could be a viable treatment to help with symptoms and improve functionality.

The goal is to get 80 participants split into four different rounds. They will then be split again with one half getting to experience EAL treatment, while the other half does not.

“We’ll figure out if there are differences in those two groups that would suggest that the EAL helped or didn’t help,” said Ashley Williams, postdoctoral fellow with McMaster University’s trauma and recovery unit.

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Genetic research and new technologies continue to influence the future of swine health and production efficiency. In this episode, we explore how research and technology are being used to support stronger, more resilient pigs, while also improving overall production outcomes. In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Jenelle Dunkelberger, geneticist with Topigs Norsvin, to discuss both routine and emerging strategies for improving piglet, pig, and sow livability. She outlines two primary approaches to enhancing resiliency: gene editing and traditional selective breeding. Continuing the resiliency conversation, we also hear from Dr. Lucina Galina, director of technical research projects at the Pig Improvement Company. She shares insights into ongoing gene-editing work focused on PRRS, detailing the pathway to success, regulatory and practical considerations, and the questions that still remain as the technology evolves. Together, these conversations provide a closer look at how research, genetics and innovation are shaping the future of swine health and livability.