As a dedicated, equine-only practice based in Aberdeenshire, Bennachie Equine Vets offer a full range of ambulatory veterinary services. From routine care to emergency treatment, we deliver our services with consistency, experience, and care that puts your horse first.
Whether you keep competition horses, happy hackers, youngsters, retirees, or a bit of everything, we’re here to support you with whatever you need.
All of our equipment is fully portable and battery-powered, meaning we can come to you regardless of your facilities.
Vaccinations
We offer routine vaccinations (tailored to your requirements) for the following diseases:
- Equine influenza
- Tetanus
- Equine herpes
- Strangles
Vaccination appointments are a great opportunity to catch up about any niggles you may have had through the year, plus we always enjoy seeing our patients when they are well!
Lameness and poor performance investigations
- We have a wealth of experience investigating poor performance and lameness in horses. With any lameness case, both Mairi and Steffi are happy to take a practical approach, and work with you to find a treatment plan which meets the needs of both you and your horse.
- For a full investigation, we will perform a thorough assessment, using inertial movement sensors where required, then perform nerve and joint blocks as necessary to identify the problem area. This will be followed by any necessary diagnostic imaging, to reach a diagnosis and create a specific treatment plan.
- We pride ourselves on working closely with local farriers and physiotherapists to ensure a collaborative team approach.
- Most investigations can be performed at your yard, however if your facilities are limited, we can arrange an appropriate alternative.
Diagnostic imaging
- We have high quality wireless digital x-ray and ultrasound machines that provide instant images for stable-side diagnoses. They can quickly be shared with specialists or paraprofessionals where necessary.
Medical investigations
With more than two decades of experience in equine practice, we are able to investigate almost all medical conditions at your yard.
These include but are not limited to:
- Colic investigations
- Respiratory problems
- Gastric ulcers
- Urinary issues
- Weight loss
- Metabolic conditions
- Pre-movement infectious disease screening (e.g. guttural pouch washes for strangles)
- For cases which require intensive or specialist care, we work closely with several referral hospitals.
Reproduction
Both Mairi and Steffi have extensive experience in stud medicine, and can work with you through every step of the breeding process. Whether you are considering putting your mare in foal for the first time, or running a busy stud, we are here to help.
Dentistry
We provide routine dental health checks for all horses, ponies and donkeys, and would usually recommend a check every 6-12 months. We will generally sedate our dental patients to allow a thorough exam with a mirror and head torch, so we can identify problems early and treat where necessary. For more advanced dental conditions, we work closely with dental specialists and can provide ongoing aftercare.
Pre-purchase examinations
- Both Mairi and Steffi have completed the BEVA Pre Purchase Examination training course and performed countless pre-purchase examinations. We offer both 2-stage and 5-stage vettings to both registered clients and non-registered clients, and can include x-rays where required.
- We always interpret our examination in the light of the intended purpose of the horse. Following the vetting, we will have a practical conversation with you about the findings, in order to help you make an informed decision. We will also provide a written report.
- Please note that due to a potential conflict of interest, we are unable to perform vettings on any horse that is one of our registered patients.
Emergency care
When you are registered with Bennachie Equine Vets, you will have peace of mind that no matter the time of day or night, we are here for you. We both have many years of experience in a wide range of emergency conditions, and will always bring a practical, calm and compassionate approach.
Euthanasia
- Saying goodbye is never easy, but when the time comes, we will be here to support you. Whether pre-planned, urgent, or due to extenuating circumstances, we will be with you every step of the way, handling the euthanasia with dignity and empathy. We’ve both been there ourselves, and we know how difficult it is.
- We are able to assist with follow up arrangements such as collection or cremation and also work closely with the BHS friends at the end initiative who can provide invaluable support.
Referral and second opinion services
- We are delighted to offer a referral service to local practices across the whole of North East Scotland. Whether it is case advice, a specific procedure, or a full case referral, get in touch and we will be happy to help.
- For non-registered clients who are looking for a second opinion on an ongoing condition, we will be happy to perform an assessment and work with your vets to aid in the diagnostic and treatment plan. Please get in touch with us for more information.