Full-length feature film “Horses and the Science of Harmony” examines the nature of harmony between horse and rider through the eyes of three-day event rider Bubby Upton and through the lens of cutting-edge science.

Horses and the Science of Harmony tells the emotional story of Bubby Upton, a rising star in British three-day eventing, who suffered a catastrophic spinal injury, yet bravely fought to get back to doing what she loves—ride. Upton’s story is woven alongside the latest in equine science to educate viewers about equine behavior and optimal well-being.

Horses and the Science of Harmony features Olympians Mary King and Lucinda Green and Badminton winner Piggy March, as well as international dressage rider and coach Gareth Hughes, alongside some of the top equine veterinarians and researchers in the world—all weighing in on the concept of harmony between humans and horses. 

The film illustrates that horses might perceive the world very differently than humans do. “We interviewed some of the top equine veterinarians and researchers in the world who show that horses don’t see the same colors as humans do, they hear higher frequencies of sound than we do, and their sense of smell is equivalent to that of a bloodhound dog,” said director Kathryn Lauritzen. “Executive producer (Dr.) Sue Dyson and I believe that by providing viewers with the most advanced research available as to the true nature of horses, they will be able to translate that new knowledge into a more harmonious relationship with their horse.”

“Understanding how horses learn, the importance of reward, the benefits of tack fit for horse and rider, the rider’s mindset, the interactions among horses and sleep are all key factors in promoting harmony,” said Dyson, who specializes in equine orthopedics, with a focus on lameness and poor performance in sports horses.

The official trailer for “Horses and the Science of Harmony,” produced by U.K. equine performance specialist Dyson and U.S.-based Lauritzen of Padma Video is available to watch here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TbC7Ny6K27k and on Smart TV platforms Apple TV, Amazon Fire, ROKU, LG, Samsung, as well as online via Equus Television Network www.equustelevision.net

Horses and The Science of Harmony will be available, free to view, starting Friday, Oct. 25, 2024.