Advancements and challenges in equine monitoring technologies

The use of technology for the monitoring of horses has witnessed significant advancements in recent years, offering both advantages and limitations in equine management and healthcare. This abstract explores the various technologies utilized for monitoring horses, their benefits, and challenges. One of the primary technologies employed in equine monitoring is heart rate devices. These devices provide valu-able insights into the cardiovascular health and fitness levels of horses during training sessions and competitions. By monitoring heart rate variability, horse owners can assess stress levels and optimize training regimes accordingly. More-over, heart rate monitoring devices aid in early detection of cardiac abnormalities, allowing for timely intervention and veterinary care. Nevertheless, the accuracy of heart rate monitors may be affected by factors such as improper device placement or signal interference, leading to inconsistent readings. Furthermore, emerging technologies such as wearable biometric sensors and smart stable systems are revolutioniz-ing equine monitoring practices. Biometric sensors, worn by the horse, can track vital signs, temperature, and activity levels, providing comprehensive health data in real-time. Smart stable systems integrate sensors and automation technol-ogy to monitor stable conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality, ensuring optimal living conditions for horses. Despite their potential benefits, these technologies may face challenges related to data accuracy, device durability, and integration with existing management systems Another technology commonly used for monitoring horses is the computer vision. This technology utilizes advan-tageous algorithms to extract relevant information from images, enabling non-invasive monitoring of animals. Computer vision algorithms are used to detect the presence of horses in the images, involving the creation of object or animal recognition models to identify specific horse features such as body shape, head, or coat. Once horses are detected in the images, computer vision can track their movement over time by analysing their position frame by frame in videos. In conclusion, the use of technology for monitoring horses offers numerous advantages in terms of management, health and safety. However, it is essential to acknowledge the limitations and challenges associated with these technolo-gies, including accuracy, reliability, and privacy concerns. Scientific validation of sensors and consideration of potential limitations are critical aspects in guaranteeing the effectiveness and reliability of such systems. By addressing these chal-lenges through continued research, innovation, and collaboration between veterinarians and equestrians, we can fully utilize the potential of technology to improve the well-being and performance of horses in various equestrian disciplines