Espinar Equine

24/08/2024

Equine Vet With A Passion For Lameness and Performance? Join Our Team!

Are you a knowledgeable and confident equine vet, ready to make your mark in a growing practice?

If so, please read on..
Espinar Equine was founded in 2018 by Emiliano Espinar, LdoVet CertEP CertISELP MRCVS, as a one man ambulatory operation with the goal of providing excellent lameness and performance care for horses. Since then we have developed into a small team with a support office. Our mission is to create a centre of excellence for ambulatory equine soundness/lameness, offering diagnostics and orthopaedic services.

We're a friendly team who are proud to be a little bit different in how we do things. We have a personal, laid-back relationship with our clients, offering a point of difference unmatched by larger practices.

About the job:
As an associate veterinarian, your primary responsibility will be to provide exceptional care to our clients' horses. You will spend your days offering first-opinion GP services, with opportunities to engage in more specialised cases as you grow in the role.

While we cover a broad area, 90% of our work occurs within a 45-minute drive from our Newbury base. We also handle vettings further afield and provide emergency care. It is therefore vital that you be based within our area of coverage or are willing to relocate close to our base in Newbury.

You need to be confident in a range of procedures, from gastroscopies to intra-articular injections, along with routine visits for vaccinations and dental care. Additionally, you will need to perform/assist in surgical procedures, such as field GA castrations and simple standing surgeries.

About you:
You are an equine vet with a minimum of two years’ experience. You’ve become confident in your clinical ability, able to handle most of your own cases independently. You’ll have good communication skills, both with clients and other team members. You enjoy working as part of a small team and are excited about learning and developing further knowledge of lameness and performance.

Qualifications and Essential Experience Required:
MRCVS
2 years experience in an equine veterinary role

Desirable Experience:
Some experience with diagnostic imaging
Digital literacy using AI and willingness to embrace new technologies

Salary/Benefits:
An approximate salary range of £40,000 - £60,000, based on experience and other requirements
Company Vehicle
Payment of professional membership fees, such as BEVA, and professional insurance
CPD supported to fit both individual & practice growth aims
Visa sponsorship
Flexible work-life balance, with minimal on-call rotations (1:4) and 25 days of annual leave + Bank Holidays
Highly supportive environment; supported by a ISELP certified member
Cycle scheme

Next Steps:
Please apply to [email protected], including a cover letter explaining why you would be a good addition to our team.

22/08/2024

🌟 New Research Uncovers How Gut Bacteria at 1-Month-Old Can Predict Future Success in Thoroughbred Racehorses—and Possibly All Horses! 🏇🐴

The gut microbiome has a profound influence on nearly every aspect of human health, from digestion and immune function to mood and even neurological conditions. The emerging field of microbiome research is unlocking new possibilities for personalised medicine and therapies that harness these tiny organisms to promote overall well-being.

In the equine world, a study from the University of Surrey has found that the gut bacteria composition in Thoroughbred foals at just one month old can predict their future athletic performance! 🧬✨ Researchers analysed 438 samples from 52 foals and discovered that foals with 'higher gut bacterial diversity' at 28 days old had better race results and were healthier overall.

Foals with 'lower bacterial diversity' at a young age had a greater risk of respiratory disease and other health issues later in life, highlighting the importance of early gut health. 🤒📉

🏆 Key findings:
- Foals with diverse gut bacteria performed better on the track
- Lower bacterial diversity linked to more health issues and lower prize money
- Antibiotics in the first month of life can disrupt gut bacteria, impacting health and performance long-term

Though the study focused on TB racehorses, these findings could have far-reaching implications for the health and performance of all horses - not just those bred for racing. This research may open doors to better health management for horses across all disciplines. 🐎💡

This groundbreaking work is paving the way for developing probiotics to enhance foals' gut health from day one. 🧪

Read more about this study and how it could shape the future of horse care: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/bacterial-gut-diversity-improves-athletic-performance-racehorses.

20/08/2024

🐴 Acupuncture for Horses🐴

Did you know that acupuncture isn’t just for humans? Horses can benefit too! With roots in traditional Chinese medicine, this scientifically supported practice involves the insertion of fine needles into specific acupoints to stimulate the nervous system, improve blood flow, and release endorphins, providing natural pain relief and promoting healing. 🩺✨

Acupuncture can be highly effective for managing conditions such as musculoskeletal pain, arthritis, laminitis, and even respiratory and digestive disorders. It’s commonly used to support rehabilitation, enhance performance in sport horses, and reduce inflammation and stress in equines of all types.

Emiliano used to work with certified veterinary acupuncturist Dietrich, so we met at a yard today to discuss some horses that we had referred to him for acupuncture treatment. This treatment is safe and non-invasive, making it a valuable complement to conventional medicine. Whether used for chronic conditions or injury recovery, acupuncture helps optimize your horse's overall health and well-being. 🌿🐎

07/08/2024

01/08/2024

One part of my job as a veterinary nurse that I most enjoy is the opportunity to give some positive energy and personal care to the horses we see. Horses are incredibly perceptive animals and can easily pick up on the emotions of those around them. However, it’s not always an easy task (for horses or owners!) to remain calm when they are in pain, or undergoing a procedure.

When we maintain a peaceful and positive demeanour, it helps to create a reassuring atmosphere where kind care is at the forefront. There have actually been several research studies done showing how calm handling and gentle touch can reduce stress indicators in horses. That's why we also believe in the power of treats to make visits a positive experience! 🌟🐴

As our clients know, Emiliano has a great ‘bedside manner’, and often I will ask if you have any of your horses favourite diet-appropriate treats or licks to hand, or I will give them a scratch on the withers while the vet is ‘doing their thing’. They may be considered small gestures but we believe they are so beneficial:

😌Reduces Stress: A tasty treat can help focus and calm your horse, reducing anxiety and making the visit more comfortable.

😊Builds Positive Associations: Rewarding with treats helps create positive memories of the vet visit, making future visits less daunting.

😋 Positive reinforcement: Treats can be a great motivator, helping your horse stay calm and cooperative during exams or procedures. This also applies to strokes, scratches and lots of ‘good boy/girl’s!’

🤗 Our thoughts and intentions - as well as our actions - always matter and are deeply important in fostering a harmonious and trusting relationship with our equine patients.

It’s why we should always aim to make each interaction as stress-free and enjoyable as possible; with a treat, kind words and a little extra love! 🌟🐴

30/07/2024

Ultrasound is a vital diagnostic tool in equine veterinary medicine, offering a non-invasive way to assess your horse's internal organs. This sophisticated imaging technique uses sound waves to create real-time images, allowing us to closely examine the lungs, kidneys, intestines (as Emiliano is examining here) and other internal organs. It's especially useful for conditions like colic, liver disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders, giving us a clear view of any abnormalities or blockages.

Whether we're monitoring a known condition, investigating symptoms like weight loss or abdominal pain, or simply conducting a routine check-up, abdominal ultrasounds provide swift, real-time invaluable insights.

We have a variety of ultrasound devices and this handheld one even connects to our phones! Technology is advancing rapidly in veterinary care and another positive point of this, is that things are becoming a lot smaller and lighter to carry around in the car!

26/07/2024

📋 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 🐴

We know that medication and the need for prescriptions can sometimes be confusing. Here’s a breakdown to help understand the process:

𝐃𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐬 & 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: After a thorough examination, our vets may determine that your horse needs medication. If this medicine is classed as a POM-V ("Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinarian") or POM-VPS ("Prescription Only Medicine - Veterinarian, Pharmacist, Suitably Qualified Person') it means it is strictly regulated and can only be prescribed by a qualified veterinarian after a thorough clinical assessment of your horse. Or, in the case of a POM-VPS, by a vet, pharmacist, or SQP who has evaluated your horse’s condition and determined the need for the POM-VPS medication. So if you wish to buy these medicines online instead, we’ll need to write you a prescription detailing the required treatment.

𝐌𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐝: We’ll provide clear instructions on how to administer the medication, including dosage, frequency, and any special considerations on the prescription. Our team is always here to answer any questions you might have.

𝐒𝐚𝐟𝐞𝐭𝐲 & 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞: It's crucial to follow the prescription exactly as directed. Never use medications prescribed for another horse or alter dosages without consulting us first.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐏𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐜𝐫𝐢𝐩𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬 𝐌𝐚𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫: Prescriptions ensure that your horse receives the right medication at the right dose, tailored specifically to their needs.

𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐦𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐚𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞: Contrary to popular belief, this is not due to vets making more profit. Larger online companies have a distinct advantage when they buy certain medicines and offer them for sale.

We’re committed to making veterinary care as straightforward and transparent as possible. If you have any questions about prescriptions or your horse’s health, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help! 😊

25/07/2024

Any guesses what Emiliano is up to here? 🧤 💩 🤔 😬

🔍 Why Check for Sand Content?

Horses that graze on sandy soil or eat hay off the ground can ingest sand. Over time, this can accumulate in their intestines, leading to painful and potentially life-threatening sand colic. Regularly checking the sand content in your horse’s droppings allows for early detection of sand buildup, enabling you to take action before it causes serious health issues.

📝 How to Perform a Sand Test:

1. Gather a small sample of fresh horse droppings for the most accurate results.

2. Place the droppings in a clear container, such as a plastic jar (or a re**al glove, whatever you have to hand!) and add enough water to cover the sample.

3. Seal the container and shake it vigorously to break up the droppings. Allow it to sit undisturbed for a while. Sand, being heavier, will settle at the bottom.

4. Carefully pour off the water, taking care not to disturb the sediment at the bottom. Examine the remaining material for sand. A small amount is usually harmless, but if you see a significant layer of sand, it’s time to take action.

🌿 What to Do If You Find Sand:

If you find a significant amount of sand in the droppings, contact us for advice. We can recommend appropriate treatments, such as psyllium supplements, to help clear the sand from your horse’s digestive system. To prevent further ingestion, consider feeding your horse off the ground, using feeders, or providing mats to reduce contact with sandy soil.

If you have any questions about sand testing or need further assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out!

16/07/2024

𝗜𝘀 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗵𝗼𝗿𝘀𝗲 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗯𝗮𝗰𝗸 𝗽𝗮𝗶𝗻?
Join us for an informative talk about Kissing Spines, by Emiliano Espinar, 𝐶𝑒𝑟𝑡𝐸𝑃, 𝐶𝑒𝑟𝑡 𝐼𝑆𝐸𝐿𝑃, 𝑀𝑅𝐶𝑉𝑆

🌟 The Espinar Equine team are excited to invite you to our upcoming client evening, dedicated to understanding and managing kissing spines in horses. Learn about the signs, treatment options, and preventative rehabilitation measures of this common condition.

Emiliano will share his knowledge based on many years of experience of diagnosing and treating back issues in both performance and leisure horses, and answer any questions you may have.

🩹 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁’𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗻’𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝘄𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲!
In addition to kissing spines, we will also discuss ways to best manage wounds; when to call the vet (and what to do while waiting!) along with bandaging tips and a change to hone your skills with a practical session.

Come and spend an evening with us, meet some of our team and have a chat!

Free and open to everyone, spaces are available on a first come, first served basis - so do comment below or message us to reserve your place!

📅 Date: [23rd July 2023]�
🕒 Time: [7pm]�
📍 Location: [Arlington Arts Centre, Newbury, RG14 3BQ]

11/07/2024

🌟 At Espinar Equine, we believe that sharing our values and maintaining transparency in vet care are fundamental to building trust and ensuring the best care for your horses. Our commitment to openness means you’re always informed and involved in every aspect of your horse’s health journey. Here’s why this matters:

🔍 Transparency Builds Trust: We believe that honesty is the cornerstone of a strong relationship with our clients. By being transparent about diagnoses, treatment options, and costs, we ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions for your horse.

🤝 Empowering Owners: When you understand the 'why' behind our recommendations, you’re better equipped to provide the best care for your horse. Knowledge is power, and we’re here to share it with you.

💬 Open Communication: We value your input and questions. Our team is always ready to discuss your horse’s health, explain treatment plans, and address any concerns you may have. Clear communication leads to better outcomes and happier, healthier horses.

🌿 Shared Values, Shared Success: By sharing our values with you, we create a cohesive care plan that respects your priorities and our commitment to excellence. Together, we ensure that your horse receives the highest standard of care.

10/07/2024

🐎 Essential Post-Workout Leg Care Tips 🍃

Cooling Down: After exercise, walk your horse to gradually reduce their heart rate and cool down their muscles. This helps prevent stiffness and injury.

Cold Therapy: Apply cold packs or ice boots to your horse’s legs to reduce heat and inflammation. Cold therapy is especially beneficial for preventing tendon and ligament injuries.

Leg bandages: Bandages can be used to support your horse’s legs and help reduce swelling especially if they are going to be stabled afterwards. Make sure to apply them correctly to avoid causing more harm than good.

Hydration and Nutrition: Ensure your horse is properly hydrated and provide a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support joint and tendon health.

Massage and Stretching: Gentle massage and stretching can improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension. This can be done by a professional or as part of your regular routine.

Routine Checks: Inspect your horse’s legs for any signs of heat, swelling, or discomfort. Early detection of issues can prevent more serious problems down the road.

08/07/2024

🚗🐴 Life as an Ambulatory Vet (& Vet Nurse!) 🐴🚗

We seem to have mastered the art of remote working; turning the car into a mobile office! And yes, it’s surprisingly ergonomic (kind of).

Between visits we share the driving, although its usually myself who ends up multi-tasking on the laptops as you can see! We can be quite busy on the journeys between calls, typing up clinical notes and reports, answering phone calls and booking appointments, transferring diagnostic imaging to our system, etc. Although its easier to do this back in our actual physical office, sometimes time-sensitive tasks have to be sorted whilst on the move.

From ultrasound machines to portable X-rays, bandages to postage bags, our cars are packed with everything needed for top-notch horse care (and keeping up with all the admin that goes alongside!) Just don’t ask us where we keep the spare tyre...

05/07/2024

🌟🐴 𝐔𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐎𝐱𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬 𝐢𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬.

Interesting article in Horse&Hound about oxidative stress (and viewing lameness videos - more about this in another post!) One important aspect of equine health that often goes unnoticed is oxidative stress. But what exactly is it, and why should you care?

🔍 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐢𝐬 𝐎𝐱𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬?

Oxidative stress occurs when there’s an imbalance between free radicals (unstable molecules that can damage cells) and antioxidants (molecules that neutralise free radicals) in the body. While free radicals are a natural byproduct of metabolism, excessive levels can lead to cell damage and contribute to various health issues.

🌿 𝐖𝐡𝐲 𝐢𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐇𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐞𝐬?

1. High-performance horses, like racehorses and eventers, produce more free radicals due to intense exercise. Oxidative stress can lead to muscle fatigue, decreased performance, and longer recovery times.

2. Ageing: Just like in humans, oxidative stress accelerates the ageing process in horses. It can contribute to age-related diseases and conditions, affecting your horse’s overall well-being.

3. Oxidative stress is linked to several health issues, including inflammatory diseases, respiratory problems, and compromised immune function.

🍎 𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐂𝐚𝐧 𝐘𝐨𝐮 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐭 𝐎𝐱𝐢𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬?

1. Balanced Diet: Ensure your horse’s diet is rich in antioxidants.

2. Proper Exercise: Regular, moderate exercise helps manage oxidative stress better than sporadic, intense workouts. Tailor your horse’s training program to their fitness level and gradually increase intensity.

3. Stress Management: Reduce environmental and psychological stressors. Ensure your horse has a calm, stable environment with plenty of turnout time and social interaction.

4. Regular Check-Ups: Routine veterinary visits help monitor your horse’s health and catch early signs of oxidative stress-related issues. Early intervention can make a big difference.

04/07/2024

#

02/07/2024

On our way to a visit we spotted this sweet cat sleeping on the counter at a toll bridge crossing 🤩 Caring for horses is our passion, but there’s something incredibly heartwarming about seeing a cat sleep so contentedly! It’s a reminder that our compassion for animals (big or small!) is what drives us every day 🐴🐱🐶

29/06/2024

🐎 What goes on during a lameness investigation? Besides the thorough clinical assessment and dynamic motion exams, we often use our gait analysis sensors to complement. Here, Mel is processing the data from the sensors and creating the report, while Emiliano assesses the horse 👩🏼‍💻 Using this portable technology at the yard and having results visible the same day is great! It gives a better understanding of the vet's recommended advice, helping you make well-informed decisions on the next steps for a treatment plan.

27/06/2024

Did you know that gastroscopy is 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐨𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐨 𝐝𝐞𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐲 𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐠𝐧𝐨𝐬𝐞 𝐠𝐚𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐮𝐥𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐬 in horses? It is the gold standard, and here's why:

👀 Direct Visualization: Gastroscopy is the only diagnostic method that allows veterinarians to directly visualize the stomach lining. This means they can see the ulcers with their own eyes, assess their size, location, and severity, and make an accurate diagnosis.

✅ Accurate Diagnosis: Observation of clinical signs (poor appetite, weight loss, grumpy to girth up or colic), can suggest the presence of ulcers but are not definitive. Gastroscopy provides a clear, unequivocal diagnosis, ensuring we know exactly what we’re dealing with.

💊 Effective Treatment Planning: Knowing the precise nature and extent of the ulcers enables us to create a targeted treatment plan. We need to know whether the ulcers are in the squamous or the glandular part of the stomach, as different treatment methods are required depending on which one we are dealing with. This tailored approach saves you money in the long-run, by giving you the most effective treatment from the outset.

🐴 Rule Out Other Conditions: Gastroscopy helps rule out other potential causes of your horse’s symptoms. By visually examining the stomach, we can identify other issues (such as bots, stomach impaction etc) ensuring your horse gets the correct treatment.

If you suspect your horse might have stomach ulcers, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to help with accurate diagnosis and effective treatment!

25/06/2024

Some of the blood samples processed and ready for posting today 🩸This is for 2 event horses we vetted, who are now heading off to the USA with their new owner! They need quite a few tests in order to satisfy export requirements, including Piroplasmosis, Dourine, Glanders and Equine Infectious Anaemia (aka 'Coggins test').

Some serum has to go to both the shipping agency and to the APHA government laboratory in this case, so its vital that everything is labelled and sent off promptly.

A visit to take a blood sample may be quite simple, but then there's a lot of work that goes on 'behind the scenes' back at the office. This can include centrifuging and separating the blood, drawing off serum or plasma, then securely packaging, in order to get the samples to the relevant labs on time!

We are always happy to help with blood sampling for export, whether you are planning on going for a short trip competing, or permanently moving abroad with your horse!

18/06/2024

Cuddles from the penultimate patient of the day who was very well-behaved for bandage changing 🤩 It’s been a busy but glorious day in the sunshine! ☀️Hope you’ve all had a great Monday too! 🙌

13/06/2024

Excited to announce the publication of our latest article, "Airway Allies: Empowering owners to combat Equine Asthma ," in the latest issue of Animal Therapy Magazine!

Equine asthma is a prevalent and often misunderstood condition that can significantly impact a horse’s health and performance. Our article aims to educate horse owners, trainers, and para-professionals on the signs, causes, and latest management strategies for this chronic respiratory disease. 🐴🫁💨

Would you like a sneak peak into our latest issue? Have a look at our contents page. So many great articles. Thank you to all our contributors for making this another fantastic and informative issue.

Photizo UK - LED Light Therapy Devices, Aceso Animal Therapy - Chiropractic and Soft Tissue Therapies, Yellow Dog UK, Espinar Equine, BreathEazy, Levi William Hunt Equine Physio UK Pioneer Veterinary Products Equine Massage Academy- EMA Whole Health Agriculture: Learning Hub British Horseracing Authority Hartpury Trimbio Arvonia Vets Cheltenham Leucillin Dr. Nick Thompson McTimoney Animal Association Big Dog Bed Company (www.therapevo.co.uk) Nupsala Musculoskeletal Clinic

10/06/2024

Great way to start a Monday - with a fantastic coffee from one of our wonderful clients! ☕️ it’s always very much appreciated 😊 Next stop is dropping some blood samples at the laboratory, before heading off to scan some stifles 🐎

08/06/2024

Happy Best Friends Day! 🎉 Today we celebrate those special connections that bring joy, comfort, and companionship to our lives. For some of us, our best friends walk on four legs and have a mane and tail!

Its always good to take a moment and appreciate the incredible bond we share with our equine friends. They teach us patience, trust, and the true meaning of unconditional love. Through our veterinary work with you and your horses, we get to see some of these amazing partnerships, which is very special indeed!

🤩 Feel free to share a photo or story of your special horse and tell us how they have made a difference in your life.

Remember, our aim is to keep our best friends sound and happy, ensuring they live their best lives as they bring so much happiness to ours. Happy Best Friends Day to you and your horses! 🐴❤️

29/05/2024

Are you looking to buy a new horse and want to ensure your potential equine companion is as wonderful and healthy as they seem? If so, getting a vetting (pre-purchase examination) is one of the smartest decisions you can make! Here’s why:

😌 Peace of Mind
A vetting provides you with the assurance that your potential new horse is in good health and fit for the purpose you have in mind. Knowing this upfront can save you from unexpected health issues and costly vet bills down the road.

🔮 Future Planning
If the vetting uncovers any minor issues, the vet can advise you on how to manage them. This helps you plan for your horse’s future care, ensuring it stays healthy and happy.

💭 Informed Decision-Making
The vetting process is thorough and detailed, covering everything from the horse’s movement and physical condition to its heart and lungs. This comprehensive check helps you to make a well-informed decision.

💷 Financial Protection
Horses are a significant investment. A vetting can reveal any potential problems that might affect the horse’s performance or health, helping you avoid a potentially expensive mistake. It’s an upfront cost that can save you a lot in the long run.

📊Objective Evaluation
Having a professional, unbiased vet assess the horse gives you an objective perspective. This can be particularly valuable if you’re buying from a private seller.

🌟In short, getting a vetting is a step towards ensuring a happy, healthy partnership right from the start!