journal article
Apr 02, 2026
Perspectives of UK horse carers towards the use of artificial intelligence in equine healthcare
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the modern world, including in veterinary medicine. This cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate horse carers’ attitudes towards using AI use in equine care.
Methods
An online survey was distributed to UK horse owners/carers in 2025, covering participants’ demographics and use of AI and their opinions of AI for equine care. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, categorisation of free‐text responses and logistic regression to determine factors associated with opinions.
Results
Ninety‐seven responses were analysed. Participants had a predominantly positive opinion of AI to automate large datasets for equine care, and a predominantly negative opinion for automating communications and medical decision making. Key categories identified in free‐text responses were: AI use in general/equine care, desire for human interaction and AI as a supportive aid only. Positive attitudes towards AI for equine care were significantly associated with participants’ opinions of AI in their own lives (odds ratio [OR]: 3.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.06‒4.45) and understanding of AI (OR: 1.31, 95% CI 1.03‒1.66).
Limitations
This is a small exploratory study of horse owners/carers in the UK, and the findings may not be more widely generalisable.
Conclusion
Horse owners/carers had mixed opinions on the use of AI in equine care, and their primary concern was around it replacing human decision making.
Background
Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming increasingly prevalent in the modern world, including in veterinary medicine. This cross‐sectional study aimed to investigate horse carers’ attitudes towards using AI use in equine care.
Methods
An online survey was distributed to UK horse owners/carers in 2025, covering participants’ demographics and use of AI and their opinions of AI for equine care. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, categorisation of free‐text responses and logistic regression to determine factors associated with opinions.
Results
Ninety‐seven responses were analysed. Participants had a predominantly positive opinion of AI to automate large datasets for equine care, and a predominantly negative opinion for automating communications and medical decision making. Key categories identified in free‐text responses were: AI use in general/equine care, desire for human interaction and AI as a supportive aid only. Positive attitudes towards AI for equine care were significantly associated with participants’ opinions of AI in their own lives (odds ratio [OR]: 3.69, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.06‒4.45) and understanding of AI (OR: 1.31, 95% CI 1.03‒1.66).
Limitations
This is a small exploratory study of horse owners/carers in the UK, and the findings may not be more widely generalisable.
Conclusion
Horse owners/carers had mixed opinions on the use of AI in equine care, and their primary concern was around it replacing human decision making.
Topics
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References
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Cite This Article
Ceara M. P. Buckley, Robert M. Hyde, Sarah L. Freeman (2026). Perspectives of UK horse carers towards the use of artificial intelligence in equine healthcare. Veterinary Record. https://doi.org/10.1002/vetr.70554
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