Equine Field Service
What to Expect at Your Appointment
The Colorado State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital has a commitment to teaching clinical medicine to veterinary students. This is why students often will accompany us on our field service appointments.
Our students may assist us in performing basic examinations and care, and serve as observers and learners for more complex types of care, such as surgery.
Students complete a two-week rotation with our field service, so long-term clients are likely to see many different friendly student faces throughout their horse's lifetime of care!
Most clients can expect the following at their appointment:
- A veterinarian and a field service intern will arrive at your barn.
- The veterinarian and intern will greet you and begin by having a discussion with you about the issues your horse is having, as well as your horse's history. We like to get an idea of the kind of lifestyle your horse has, as well as basic information such as age, weight, etc.
- We will examine your horse and perform diagnostics as necessary.
- Based on the findings from our examination and diagnostics, we will work with you to make choices about your horse's care and perform any decided upon treatments.
- We can provide some medications in the field and, if we cannot provide the appropriate medication, we will discuss with you how to get a Prescription Filled for that medication.
- Blood work cannot be performed in the field. If blood work is necessary, we must process the blood samples at our Clinical Pathology Laboratory. The results of these diagnostics will be shared with you as soon as they are available.
- The veterinarian and intern will discuss the treatment and any discharge instructions with you. You also will receive a paper copy of your discharge information via mail after your appointment.
- You may receive a follow-up call to check in on the status of your animal.