New Guidelines

The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) recently approved a new set of guidelines pertaining to veterinarian farrier professional interaction.

Guidelines for
VETERINARIAN / FARRIER PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT (2006)

Licensed veterinarians, being responsible for the medical and surgical management of equine patients should offer clear and concise communications concerning the hoof care of the patient to the client’s farrier. The veterinarian and farrier share the responsibility of consulting with and advising the client. The veterinarian should actively consider the opinions of the attending farrier regarding options for shoeing therapy.

Communications between these professionals should provide a clear interpretation of the clinical findings of the patient. This communication should be handled in such a manner that acknowledges each individual's professional training and responsibility. Ideally, the veterinarian and farrier should communicate directly, preferably in person or electronically. Such communication should be augmented by written documentation to minimize misinterpretation. The written communications should include a diagnosis, proposed treatment as well as a description of the possible shoeing options. The written document should be in sufficient detail to become part of the patient's permanent medical record.

Referrals may be made from veterinarian to veterinarian, veterinarian to farrier, farrier to veterinarian, or farrier to farrier. In those horses seen as referrals, the attending professionals (referring veterinarian or farrier) should maintain an active role in the on going care of the patient. The professional to whom the referral was made should maintain contact with the attending veterinarian and farrier throughout the duration of treatment. The attending farrier, who will be responsible for the shoeing of the patient following referral, should remain involved with the veterinarian and/or farrier to whom the horse was referred regarding the shoeing therapy that was performed and follow-up care when necessary. All professionals should remain available until the original problem has been resolved. The client should be encouraged to contact the original veterinarian or farrier for continued care of the horse.