Robinson Equine Vet & Dental Surgery

15/05/2026

⚠️ Equine Influenza Alert ⚠️

A case of equine influenza has recently been confirmed in the local New Forest area. The horse was an unvaccinated new arrival in a small private yard, not a forest run pony. In light of this, we are advising all horse owners to remain especially vigilant for any signs of respiratory illness.

🐴 Signs to watch out for:
• Fever (high temperature)
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing
• Nasal discharge

There has been a significant rise in equine influenza cases across the UK in recent months. The majority of confirmed cases have occurred in unvaccinated horses. However, positive cases have also been identified in vaccinated horses where the last vaccination was administered more than six months ago. This supports current evidence that protection is significantly improved when boosters are given within a six-month period.

Under the right conditions, equine influenza can spread over distances of up to 5 km. This means that even horses that do not leave their yard may still be at risk through indirect exposure from surrounding areas.

That said, the most common route of transmission remains the movement and mixing of horses. We would therefore strongly encourage owners to consider a 6-month booster vaccination if their horse:
• Travels off the yard
• Competes or attends events
• Mixes with other horses, including New Forest ponies

If you would like to arrange a vaccination visit or discuss your horse’s vaccination status, please contact the practice, we are happy to help.

30/04/2026

Check out the feature in the New Milton Advertiser Equestrian Edition, where Beth discusses all things strangles - an important and highly contagious disease.

In the article, Beth explains:
• What strangles is and how it spreads between horses
• Why the New Forest faces unique challenges due to horse movement and grazing patterns
• The hidden risk of carrier horses that may appear healthy but continue to spread infection
• Key clinical signs to watch for, including fever, swollen lymph nodes, nasal discharge, coughing, and difficulty swallowing
• Potential complications and why early recognition matters
• Practical biosecurity measures to help reduce outbreaks
• The role of testing, isolation, and responsible horse management
• How vaccination can support protection and reduce disease impact

If you’d like advice on strangles prevention, testing, or vaccination, our team is here to help. 🐴💉

10/04/2026

⚠️ Equine Influenza Alert – Rising Cases in the UK ⚠️

There has been a recent increase in equine influenza (flu) cases across England.

In the first 10 days of April 2026, there have already been 6 confirmed outbreaks, compared to just 2 cases in the whole first quarter of the year. Cases have been reported across multiple counties, including Hampshire, Berkshire, Kent, Lincolnshire, and North Yorkshire.

🔍 Key points:
• Many cases involve recently arrived horses, including imports from Europe
• Vaccinated horses can still be affected
• The disease has been present across different regions

🐴 Signs to watch for:
• Fever (high temperature)
• Loss of appetite
• Coughing
• Nasal discharge

🛑 What you can do:
• Monitor horses closely, especially new arrivals
• Isolate any horse showing symptoms
• Ensure vaccinations are up to date
• Contact us promptly if you have concerns

Early action helps prevent further spread and protects all horses on your yard.

📞 If you’re unsure or notice any symptoms, please get in touch with the practice for advice.

Photo and info courtesy of the Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance

10/03/2026

An interesting client evening looking at all things related to bit and bridle fitting. All are welcome at what will be a very informative evening. Our very own vet Nicky Brooks will talk during the evening about dentistry and its role in bit and bridle fitting.
Leanne George (physiotherapist) and Sally O’Hara will look at bits and bridle fitting. Please register your interest through the link below.

How does your horse’s equipment affect their comfort, welfare and performance?

Join us to explore how bridles, saddles and bits can create pressure areas, what research tells us about equipment use and how your horse’s mouth and head anatomy may be affected.

This session will include expert talks and practical, hands-on demonstrations from:
• Leanne George - research findings
• Sally O'Hara Bit and Bridle Fitter
• Nicky Brooks of Robinson Equine Vet & Dental Surgery

📍 Venue: Forest Oaks Equestrian
📅 Date: Wednesday 25th March
⏰ Time: 7pm

📩 Book your place via email or WhatsApp.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how better equipment choices can support your horse’s comfort and performance.

22/02/2026

Today our team swapped waterproofs and wellies for teacups and treats as we enjoyed a lovely afternoon tea together. 🍰 🫖

It was so nice to spend time away from the usual mud and stables! A perfect way to relax and recharge as a team.

21/02/2026

Good luck to everyone competing in the West Hants Pony Club charity Mounted Games today, we’re proud to support such a wonderful event! 🏆 🌟 🐴

Our last sponsor for the charity Mounted Games Competition today is Robinson Equine Vet & Dental Surgery. Thank you for your support

18/02/2026

We’re thrilled to share that our team has been featured in the Ringwood & Fordingbridge News this week! 📰🐴

The article highlights the importance of modern equine dentistry and how advances in techniques, equipment, training and education are helping to improve horse welfare, performance, and long-term health.

We’re passionate about providing evidence-based, up-to-date dental care for every horse we see, and we’re delighted to see this important topic being shared with the wider community.

A big thank you to the Ringwood & Fordingbridge News for helping raise awareness of equine dental health. 🦷✨

15/02/2026

Check out our Winter Newsletter, featuring new team members, a dentistry update, and worming advice. 🐴🦷🪱🌟

13/02/2026

🐴✨ Inspiring the Next Generation! ✨🐴

This week, Beth had the pleasure of giving pupils at The Mountbatten School a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at the world of equine dentistry - all via Microsoft Teams!

Students were treated to an insight into the tools of the trade, the science behind equine dentistry, and why welfare-focused veterinary care is so important for our horses. 🦷💙

By showcasing real equipment and sharing real-world knowledge, these sessions are helping to spark curiosity and open young minds to the exciting possibilities within veterinary careers.

We’re thrilled to hear such positive feedback from teachers, who have praised the initiative for being both engaging and inspiring. 🌟

Here’s to encouraging the next generation of veterinary professionals! 👩‍⚕️👨‍⚕️🩺

12/02/2026

🌟 A lovely post from Alice about Calyspo’s recent dental filling, performed by Nicky, stable-side! 🐴💫
We have state-of-the-art portable equipment so we can offer restorations (fillings), when appropriate, to horses in the comfort of their own stables - no travel stress, just great care where it’s needed most. 🦷✨

Watch the full video below!

05/02/2026

Big happy birthday to our super vet & dentist Nicky Brooks! 🥳🦷
She’s enjoying a very well-deserved day off after smashing a super busy January- completing over 100 dentals, from Shetlands to 5⭐ eventers, plus lots of advanced dental treatments too! 💪✨ 💪✨
We’re so lucky to have her on the team… enjoy your day of cake & relaxation! 🎂💙

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