Equine education expands in Canada with landmark conference

The event underscores Canada's expanding role in equine veterinary education and the demand for more hands-on continuing education.

Female vet checking horse while standing in stable
The conference highlighted Canada’s increasing role in enhancing equine veterinary education and addressing longstanding training deficiencies. Photo ©Wavebreak Media/courtesy Bigstockphoto.com

The American Association of Equine Veterinary Technicians (AAEVT) celebrated a significant milestone with its first Canadian conference held at King Animal Hospital in King, Ontario.

Canadian veterinary technicians are required to complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years; however, equine-focused options are limited. Most conferences take place in the U.S. and often lack sufficient hands-on content, making it challenging for busy equine teams to engage in practical learning.

The selection of King Animal Hospital as the venue was intentional, as it emphasizes education, collaboration, and the advancement of technician roles, making it a natural choice.

The conference featured lectures by surgeons Dr. Bonder, Dr. Albert Torrent, and Dr. Natalie Cote, who conducted hands-on sessions in which technicians practiced using thoracic ultrasounds and dental X-rays.