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UPenn Natural Horse Behavior Short Course

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Clark Summit, PA
April 24-25, 2025


Dr. Sue McDonnell, Stacy Butewicz, Jaime Miller

A Transformative Experience in Equine Behavior: Two-Day Course with UPenn’s Dr. Sue McDonnell

Philadelphia, PA – April 24-25, 2025 — The University of Pennsylvania’s Veterinary School of Medicine recently offered a unique opportunity for equine enthusiasts to deepen their understanding of natural horse behavior. The two-day course, led by the world-renowned Dr. Sue McDonnell, PhD in Equine Behavior, was held at the picturesque Lor-El Farm in Clark Summit, Pennsylvania. This immersive experience was open to both students and the public, drawing participants eager to expand their knowledge of horse behavior in a natural setting.

Hosted by Jamie Miller, the owner of Lor-El Farm, the course offered a rare glimpse into the lives of a semi-feral herd of about 60 ponies roaming freely on 30 acres of land. Participants were captivated by the sight of these ponies thriving in their natural environment, including the oldest pony in the herd, a 24-year-old mare who had just given birth to a healthy foal without any assistance.

The course provided an extraordinary opportunity to observe and understand equine behavior firsthand. Dr. McDonnell’s expertise, combined with Jamie’s intimate knowledge of the herd, made for an enlightening experience that left participants with a deeper appreciation for these magnificent animals. The highlight of the weekend was walking into the field on the second day to discover a newborn foal, a truly magical moment that underscored the beauty and resilience of these creatures.

At the conclusion of the course, participants received a certificate of completion from UPenn, marking a rewarding achievement in their ongoing education. For anyone passionate about horses and eager to expand their knowledge, this course comes highly recommended.

For more information, please contact:
University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine