Evolution of Critical Care in Private Equine Practice

1. Introduction
The advances in equine medicine over the past couple of decades have brought about a more rapid information gathering process and an increased rate of accurate clinical diagnosis—primarily through the more common use of ultrasonography. Advanced training for veterinarians and veterinary technicians along with continued experience gained in frequent management of critically ill animals have made critical care for the equine patient a much more recognized service in equine practice.

The private practitioner is often on the front line in assessment and management of the critically ill equine patient. Over the past 20 yr, equine medicine has seen the advent of a variety of diagnostic tools and advances in therapy that have improved the medical and surgical management of the critically ill equine patient. Part of this improvement has been a transition in the delivery of advanced care to the private hospital and referral practice setting. This discussion focuses on how these advances have influenced the delivery of care to the critically ill equine patient in the private practice setting. [...]