Would you always choose an equine vet over a large animal vet (who has a good reputat

It would be interesting to hear from an actual vet what the difference is. I always thought that horses came into the "large animal" catagory. Our vets are a mixed practice, and are farm type sensible vets, which I prefer. The equine practice in the area charges much more for things. I'm sure they just see some horse owners coming - and charge them extra. They may be useful for a complete novice owner perhaps, but I can't see why five years of vets school wouldn't teach someone about how to treat a horse...
 
Training is more or less the same - all vets are qualified to treat all species, including exotics. Cows, Sheep, Dogs, Cats and Horses all have a relatively similar number of lectures at vet school. Exotics (including small furries) was apparently not very many lectures, pigs, donkeys, chickens etc all have the odd lecture on them.

Some vet schools, you have to choose between equine and large for your final year rotations - most you do all species equally.

Post qualification CPD - whether it's relevant or not depends on the vet. Some will be registered for CPD and turn up hungover/not paying attention, or daydream all day, some will take notes assiduously. Not all the vets at the same practice will be able to go to BEVA (or species equivalent) as someone has to be around to do calls etc. Experience wise - a vet who's been working in an equine only (or farm only) practice will be rusty on smally stuff and vice versa.

My OH's in a mixed practice, is part way through an advanced certificate in equine medicine (I think) and attends CPD courses on equine matters, and odd local evening meetings on small animals. He's on call for all species, so keeps up to speed by talking to colleagues who do more of the other stuff. But he's quite a studious type and likes to be prepared - and is always buying (and reading) more books. Other vets aren't quite as dedicated to reading (or don't have time).
 
my equine vets are attached to the RVC so they can also call on the academic vets and surgeons too for extra information and as they teach vet students and normally bring one with them when they come they are good at explaining things very clearly.

they are not the cheapest as they are not the nearest though.
 
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