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Verna Vilppula CV
Education
MSc in Animal Sciences (Ethology)
Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), 2025
BSc (Hons) Applied Animal Behavioural Science and Welfare
University of Greenwich, UK, 2020
Basic studies in creative writing and cultural history
University of Jyväskylä, 2014
Vocational qualification in horse management (horse breeding)
Ypäjä Equine College, 2010
Research and positions of trust
Researcher, Horse Interaction Project
University of Helsinki / Kone Foundation, 2019–2023
Project leader: Associate Professor Sonja Koski
The research focused on horse personalities and the relationships between people and horses.
Board member
Finnish Association of Animal Trainers, 2021--2022
Awards
Finnish Horse Sport Association
Ethical Actor of the Year Award 2026
Lectures and personnel trainings (selected)
My clients include the following:
University of Helsinki (veterinary students)
Fennovet (veterinarians)
Finnish Equestrian Association
Finnish Animal Welfare Association
Häme University of Applied Sciences (horse agronomy students)
Ylä-Savo Vocational College (animal trainer specialist education)
Maatila2030 EU – project
Eläin on – animal-assisted work project
Southern Finland Horse Breeding Association
Myy Learning
Education & Academic Background
I began studying Applied Animal Behaviour Science at Coventry University in 2016, specialising in animal training and cognition. After two years, I transferred to the University of Greenwich, where I focused on companion animal and equine welfare. I graduated in 2020 with a First Class Honours BSc in Applied Animal Behavioural Science and Welfare, finishing at the top of my class.
In 2025, I completed my MSc in Animal Sciences (Ethology) at the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU). The emphasis of my master's studies was on the welfare of companion and farm animals, as well as human–animal interactions.
My master's thesis, Influence of Training Techniques and Housing Environments on Horse Success in an Object Choice Test, received the highest possible grade (5/5). The thesis was recognised for its scientific quality, relevance, and presentation, and was supervised by Associate Professor Sonja Koski and animal welfare and cognition researcher Dr Maria Vilain Rørvang.
You can read my master's thesis here.
In addition to my degree programmes, I have completed university-level studies in pedagogy, psychology, environmental law, creative writing, and cultural history. These disciplines have broadened my understanding of learning, behaviour, and human decision-making, while providing valuable insight into the wider social and cultural factors that also influence the lives of animals.
Together, they support my goal of combining scientific research, practical application, and engaging communication to advance animal welfare.
Research Experience
From 2019 to 2023, I worked as a researcher in the Horse Interaction Project, funded by the Kone Foundation and led by Associate Professor Sonja Koski at the University of Helsinki.
I was responsible for the part of the project investigating the social personality of adult horses and the human–horse relationship. Other parts of the project explored the development of foal personality, the formation of human–horse relationships, and horse owners' beliefs and attitudes.
The project brought together behavioural science, cognition, welfare research, and human–animal interaction to deepen our understanding of horses as social animals.
Professional Journey
Animals have been a central part of my life since childhood, and I have worked professionally in the animal sector since 2009.
My vocational education in equine management gave me the opportunity to work with horses in Finland, the Netherlands, Germany, Estonia, and the United Kingdom. My transition from the equestrian world to animal welfare science was a gradual and deeply personal journey. It began after witnessing the systematic mistreatment of horses and corruption at an elite international competition stable—an experience that fundamentally changed how I viewed the industry and inspired me to pursue a career dedicated to improving animal welfare through science.
I found my professional calling in applied ethology, where I could combine scientific research with my passion for understanding animals as whole individuals. Growing up in a family of physicians and developing an early interest in health, wellbeing, and ethics has also shaped the way I approach both animals and people, always seeking to understand the biological, environmental, and ethical factors that influence wellbeing.
Life with Animals
At home, I share my life with Eemeli, a re-homed cat who came into my life as an adult. I strive to provide him with an active, species-appropriate life that allows him to express his natural behaviours.
With my late rescue cat, Heros, I enjoyed hiking, harness walks, agility, trick training, and exploring new environments together. I continue to share ideas and practical tips on feline welfare and enrichment through my Instagram account, @kotipeto.
My life also includes Hilma, a family dog who regularly stays with me for a change of pace from everyday life with young children. Our time together is centred around resting, long sniffing walks in nature, and behavioural enrichment that promote wellbeing for us both.
