Recognizing Leaders in our Equine Health Industry
In our October Impact Awards focus, we turn our gaze to the unsung heroes of our equestrian world—our dedicated equine healthcare professionals. These are the individuals whose skilled hands and compassionate hearts ensure that our beloved horses remain in peak condition, enabling us to pursue the sport and lifestyle we hold dear.
Yet, the path for these remarkable healthcare professionals is not as smooth as it should be. Recent data from the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) paints a concerning picture. Annually, a mere 1.3% of veterinary graduates enter directly into equine practice, with another 4.5% moving into equine internships. Alarmingly, within just five years, half of these veterinarians transition to small animal practices or leave the profession entirely. This stark trend underscores the pressing need for us to recognize and support those who choose this challenging yet essential field.
Research in equine veterinary medicine is crucial for advancing treatments and improving the health outcomes of our horses. Yet, it often goes unnoticed. The contributions of Equine Veterinary Technicians, who play an indispensable role in supporting veterinarians, also deserve our recognition. These technicians provide the backbone of clinical operations, ensuring that each day runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing veterinarians to focus on their diagnostics and care. This is why we are recognizing not only outstanding equine veterinarians but also research teams and equine veterinary technicians in this special impact awards section.
It’s important for us, as equestrians, to remember that our equine healthcare professionals are not just practitioners; they are people too. The next time you bump into your equine vet or technician outside of a professional setting, resist the urge to discuss your horse’s health immediately. Instead, take a moment to engage with them as individuals and acknowledge their hard work and dedication. Consider how you might support their work-life balance, whether through simple gestures of gratitude or respecting their personal time.
We are thrilled to honor our selected equine healthcare professionals in this edition, celebrating their tireless dedication and passion. Their work not only keeps our horses in excellent health but also enriches our lives, providing us with the opportunity to enjoy the sport and lifestyle we cherish.
I urge each of you to connect with your equine veterinary team and share your gratitude. A simple thank-you note can make a significant impact, demonstrating that their efforts are truly valued. In conclusion, let us celebrate these remarkable honorees for their hard work, passion, and unwavering dedication to us and our horses.
Meet the Finalists:
Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Health and Sports Performance (EHSP) Team
Director: Frank M. Andrews, DVM
Allison Parnell, DVM with Equine Veterinary Associates:
Elise Jones, DVM with Stable & Stock Veterinary Services:
Mustajab Mirza, DVM with Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine (LSU Vet Med)
Rachel Cezar-Martinez, DVM with Double Z Cowboy Corral and Louisiana Equine Council:
Amanda Burrow, Reproduction Veterinary Assistant at Janssen Vet Clinic:
Maddie Cerise, Large Animal Technician at LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital:
