The campaign comprises a series of short videos featuring equine behaviourist Gemma Pearson MRCVS. The videos demonstrate quick and simple ways of teaching horses to be quiet, relaxed and safe for injections, clipping, worming, examinations and other veterinary procedures.
Equine practices can share the video links with clients here.
According to a paper published in the journal Equine Veterinary Education in January, an equine vet may expect to sustain between seven and eight work-related injuries that impede them from practicing, during a 30-year working life.1
This is far a higher figure than other civilian occupations such as the construction industry, prison service and the fire brigade.
Bruising, fracture and laceration to the leg or the head were the most common injuries reported with the main cause being a kick with a hind limb. Nearly a quarter of these reported injuries required hospital admission and 7% resulted in loss of consciousness.
David Mountford, CEO at BEVA said: "Many accidents reportedly occur when vets are trying to work with horses who have learnt to avoid examination or treatment and where handlers are not in full control. Gemma’s work at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies and her amazing videos show how a little preparation can have a big impact on horse, owner and vet safety.”
David Catlow, Blue Cross director of clinical services, said: "These videos are a superb resource to help with behaviour training in horses and to help them remain calm and manageable in all sorts of circumstances. Time spent on behaviour training of horses, using positive reinforcement methods such as these, is time well spent for everyone’s safety. Blue Cross invests a great deal of time in behaviour training on the horses we rehome, and it works."
The seven practical videos cover how clients can train and prepare their horse for:
David Mountford added: "These videos make interesting viewing for vets as well as horse owners and build on Gemma’s eBEVA webinar "Practical Equine Behaviour" and the Guidance on Managing Equine Risks that BEVA has produced.”
You can watch the videos here.
Photo: Equine vets Malcolm Morley and Gemma Pearson
PS: Whilst you're here, take a moment to see our latest job opportunities for vets.