Introduction to the International Journal of Equine Science

Abstract

Studies, knowledge, and science involving equine species go back centuries due to humanity's need to improve the performance, production, and health of these animals that have always participated in people's lives and thus contributed to the development of humanity. This involved veterinary medicine and its specialties, which began to continually seek and improve solutions to different problems. Notably, it was possible to observe that based on the historical needs of the use of horses in society, the field of equine medicine has evolved tremendously in terms of research and study. Horses were active participants in the creation and development of nations, in military actions and conquests, as an invaluable animal labor force, in the production of goods, and in the transportation of people and cargo. The use of horsepower has undergone changes, with the intensification of its use at work, in sports, in different modalities, and in leisure. It currently reaches the therapeutic dimension by having a key role in hippotherapy, which is widely used in different world regions. This variety of jobs in different activities makes horses a prominent species and recognized as beneficial to people and societies. Currently, horses represent a source of income for people, generate work and resources, and have an impact on the pleasure and health of the populations that have horses as part of their lifestyle. Because of how important they are in people’s lives, horses have become prominent in the field of scientific research seeking more knowledge about the development of the species and its possibilities of use. The studies and works initially sought animal health through equine veterinary medicine and from this concept, added to other needs for the development of the themes, the interest in equine science arises, broader and more comprehensive with regard to this species. Equine science is highlighted by deepening knowledge in the various fields of action related to horses, updating and expanding information and knowledge, and directly benefiting animals and people who relate to this species, touching animal health and public health. Currently in line with “one health”. This field of studies related to horses tends to grow and expand, responding to existing questions and seeking other benefits with scientific and technological development. The incessant search for animal health, for human and social well-being, and development, allied to ethical and animal well-being issues make the expansion of studies, research, and knowledge happen in a consistent and accessible way.