Racing modules at Enniskillen involve visits to the industry’s leading equine establishments. CAFRE equine students recently made a visit to the Lisadell Equine Hospital, one of Ireland’s foremost veterinary practices to look at cutting edge technology.
Upon arriving, the students were invited to observe a horse being gastro-scoped, which was diagnosed with grade 3 stomach ulcers. One of the resident veterinary nurses, Shelly Gaffney, then kindly showed the laboratory facilities and explained the significance of haematology, biochemistry and serology and their application in equine health.
The highlight of the day was seeing the dynamic respiratory endoscope in action. This is the up to date method of diagnosing wind problems in athletic horses. A college trained racehorse was used and was ridden by Chris Armstrong (BSc 3), who is a qualified rider. After the horse had been galloped, the vet reviewed the video of the movement of the larynx and soft palate and explained in detail his findings to the students.
The students are grateful to the Lisadell staff especially Peter Gibbons, Liam Sharp and Mario Antignani MsRCVS for hosting such a stimulating and enjoyable visit.
Naomi Meeke, Jessica McGrath, Anna McSparron and Stephen Farrell - Second Year Students on the BSc (Hons) Equine Management at Enniskillen Campus
Eibhlin Sheridan (BSc3), Shelly Gaffney Veterinary Nurse and Darren McKay (BSc3) in the laboratory at Lisadell
Chris Armstrong (BSc3) riding a mare with the dynamic respiratory endoscope equipment attached to his back. The camera has been placed in the mare's respiratory tract
Peter Gibbons MRCVS and Liam Sharp MRCVS review the endoscopy findings with students