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Equine conference to discuss gait analysis
Image (C) Bas Niemans, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University.
The benefits of gait analysis for equine performance and welfare will be considered. 

The Saddle Research Trust has confirmed that gait analysis will be discussed at its 4th International Conference.

Led by Dr Filipe Serra Bragança, from the University of Utrecht Faculty of Veterinary Science, the second session of the day will discuss the current position of objective gait analysis, and its future role in assessing performance horses. 

Several different aspects of gait analysis will be discussed, including kinetic, kinematic and surface electromyography, as well as applications and consequences of gait analysis for equine athletes, focusing on welfare and quantifying performance. 

Using sensor technology for gait analysis to regularly monitor horses will also be explored, alongside the pros and cons of different types of gait analysis systems, and future development goals in the field. 

Dr Bragança commented: “The introduction of modern technology into equine sports medicine has started a revolution.

“We have now the tools and knowledge to better quantify many aspects of our field that will ultimately lead to better performance and welfare of the equine athlete.”

The conference, which is exploring the 'Welfare and Performance of the Ridden Horse: The Future' will be held virtually on Saturday 11 December 2021, and tickets are available here. 

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
RCVS pays tribute to well-loved equine vet

The RCVS and the Riding Establishments Subcommittee has paid tribute to well-loved veterinary surgeon and riding establishment inspector, Rebecca Hamilton-Fletcher MRCVS.

Linda Belton MRCVS, RCVS President, said: "I, along with my colleagues on the RESC, RCVS Council, RCVS Standards Committee, as well as RCVS staff, was very saddened to hear of the sudden death of Rebecca, or Becca as we knew her, last week.

"She was a true advocate for equine welfare and in her many years on the RESC worked to continually improve the quality and consistency of riding establishment inspections, all in the interests of enhanced horse welfare and rider safety."