Medical, Surgical and Reproductive Referrals
For professional ethical reasons, and for the best interests of your horse, we will only see horses for medical, surgical or reproductive investigations or treatment that have been referred by veterinary surgeons. Horse owners who call us directly will be asked to discuss referral with their own veterinary surgeon before an appointment can be made at Rossdales Equine Hospital or Diagnostic Centre.
Once the decision to refer the case has been taken, the referring veterinary surgeon should discuss the case with one of our clinicians and an initial plan of investigation, together with an estimate of likely costs, will be advised.
The most common indication for equine caesarean section is dystocia (difficulty in foaling) and decision-making at the time of first indication of difficulty must be rapid for the best chance of saving the mare and retrieving a live foal. Owners who suspect dystocia in their mare should contact their veterinary surgeon immediately (see additional information about casearean section and controlled deliveries).
Where the horse is insured, either for mortality, loss of use or veterinary fees, it is essential that the owner informs their insurance company that the horse is being referred, prior to admission. When an appointment is made, we will advise owners about what to do when they arrive at our Hospital or Diagnostic Centre and any specific instructions they need to know beforehand. Owners should bring the horse’s passport to their first appointment.
