NC State CVM Equine Health Program Supports North Carolina’s Growing Equine Community
The Equine Health Program at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine brings together horse owners, veterinarians, and college faculty on the issues, research, and advancements concerning horse health in North Carolina and beyond.
North Carolina is unique in that it is the only state without horse racing that is listed in the top 10 for the number of resident horses. Propelled by more than 53,000 equine-owning households or operations and some 306,000 horses, North Carolina’s equine community has a long and rich tradition and is a major contributor to the U.S. horse industry.
The NC General Assembly funded a statewide study of North Carolina’s equine industry to assess its economic impact and identify opportunities for growth. The results documented an annual contribution to the state’s economy of more than $1.9 billion. In addition, nearly 20,000 jobs are tied to the industry.
The CVM Equine Health Program has developed into one of the most respected in the country. For example, the program has received acclaim for its leadership in equine laser treatment; nuclear scintigraphy, ultrasound and magnetic imaging; gastrointestinal research; surgery and ophthalmology.
In supporting North Carolina’s significant equine resources, the CVM has developed a designation of an “area of excellence” within the Equine Health Program that encompasses clinical service, research, and teaching.
Clinical service can be related to work in the Equine and Farm Animal Veterinary Center for referring veterinarians and their clients or can occur in the hospital of a requesting veterinarian.
Research can be examining hospital data retrospectively or prospectively or doing basic studies.
Teaching can be lecturing and working with veterinary students in the clinics, working with house officers and post-graduate students, or developing training programs in the Equine and Farm Animal Veterinary Center or in out-reach programs for practicing veterinarians.
Four programs current fit the definition of areas of excellence:
- Colic and Digestive Diseases
- Ophthalmology
- Reproduction
- Sports Medicine
As an additional service, specialists with the Equine Health Program are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year for treatment of emergency problems. To refer a horse on an emergency basis, call 919.513.6630 during the day or 919.513.6500 after hours.
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