FAQs
Who can use UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital?
The hospital is open to the general public: we see a wide range of performance and pleasure horses. In most cases referral from a primary veterinarian will have occurred, however anyone may arrange a consultation directly simply by contacting us. All emergency cases must be referred by a veterinarian who has attended to the horse for its current problem and we must speak to your veterinarian before we can accept the horse into hospital.
Are there any services UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital doesn’t provide?
We do not offer some routine care such as general vaccinations and routine dental work. For these services please contact your regular veterinarian.
What is different about UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital to other Equine Vet Hospitals and Clinics?
The UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital is a world class facility that is staffed by registered specialists in equine medicine, surgery and reproduction. The purpose of the hospital is to provide the most advanced diagnostics, surgical and medical care available. Although it is primarily a referral hospital, horse owners and trainers are welcome to contact us directly regarding their horse.
What is a Veterinary Teaching Hospital?
A Veterinary Teaching Hospital is usually associated with a University and is established to assist in the training of veterinarians and veterinary nurses/technicians. The priority of UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital is to deliver the highest level of veterinary care available, whilst incorporating student training. Similar to medical students in human hospitals, final year UQ veterinary students observe and aid in the management of cases under the supervision of clinicians as part of their veterinary training.
Is it easy to access UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital with a large trailer or gooseneck?
Yes, we have a large car park with plenty of scope to swing a large gooseneck or trailer. The gates are generally closed to the car park, you will need to leave enough room to swing them toward you when you arrive. The gates are automatic opening and closing simply follow the instructions on the electronic gate.
Can I leave my trailer at UQ VETS during my horses treatment?
Yes but we suggest you speak to the clinic staff if you need to leave your float or trailer at the clinic during treatment.
What should I do when I arrive at the Hospital?
When you have parked your vehicle in the marked parking area please visit reception. The reception staff will arrange for staff to help you unload and stable your horse within the hospital. Once your horse is settled in, please report back to reception for your appointment and to fill out the necessary paperwork for the treatment of your horse.
What are the Hospitals facilities like for horses?
Built and opened in 2010, the UQ Vets Equine Specialist Hospital features the very latest and most advanced facilities for diagnostics as well as medical and surgical treatment for horses. The hospital features two state of the art operating theatres, high power digital x-ray, CT, ultrasound (including echocardiography), high-speed treadmill, loss of performance diagnostic facilities, dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) for foals and adults, sling stalls and an isolation facility. The hospital also includes the first scintigraphy (nuclear medicine/”bone scan”) facility for horses in Queensland. The stalls are bedded with EcoBedding, a high-absorbent, low dust bedding that helps provide a clean and dust free environment for our patients.
Do I need to bring anything to the Hospital for my horse?
Any items you bring to the hospital should be clearly marked with your name and the name of the horse. At admission, we will exchange your halter for one of the hospital halters however, if your horse is coming by transport, we will hold the items for return at discharge. Whilst we will take every care, we are unable to take responsibility for any items left at the hospital.
Can I visit my horse whilst at UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital ?
Certainly, visiting hours are Monday to Friday 9am to 11am and 1pm to 3pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 11am. Certain exceptions may apply with permission from the veterinarian on the case. Please see our full visitors policy for more information.
Where can I get lunch or morning tea when I visit UQ VETS Equine Specialist Hospital?
There is a café on the UQ Gatton Campus which is open from 9am - 3pm daily and a coffee vendor at the School Offices. Ask the Clinic staff to direct you. You can also visit Gatton or Forest Hill a short 10 min drive away.
Can I have my horses feet and teeth done at UQ VETS?
We have a master farrier on site on most Wednesdays through Fridays who sees both hospitalised specialty cases as well as providing general farrier work. We do have a veterinary dental specialist on site on the first Tuesday of every month to see advanced and referral dental cases, however we do not provide routine dental services. Please contact reception to make an appointment with either of these services.