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InFocus

A look inside Sussex Equine Hospital

Having moved to new premises in Ashington, Sussex Equine Hospital held an open day to show off its new facilities

The Sussex Equine Hospital was founded in 1951. It was formerly known as the Arundel Equine Hospital and it moved to Ashington, West Sussex, in July 2017. Currently there are 21 vets working there with a dedicated staff covering all aspects relating to equine surgery.

FIGURE 1 The West Sussex Fire Brigade were in attendance to demonstrate how they rescue horses from mud and water
FIGURE 2 The Brooke, which supports conditions for working horses and donkeys, was the chosen charity at the open day

The practice is independently run and has built up an excellent reputation across Sussex, Surrey and Hampshire. Director Ed Lyall said, “We have invested a lot in the move but our directors and stakeholders felt it had to be done. Already it is proving to us that we made the right decision. Our aim is to provide excellence in veterinary practice made possible by vets that care passionately about their patients and provide a unique service tailored to each individual client’s needs.”

The practice decided to open its doors and hold its first open day, which was an outstanding success. Even the West Sussex Fire Service was in attendance with their horse lifting gear, which proved very popular with the children. It was a “walk around” event with vets and staff members present to show how each department works. A concerted effort had been made in providing dedicated imaging to show visitors how procedures are carried out in each area of the hospital.

FIGURE 3 Paula Broadhurst, one of the practice directors, explained the use of the intensive care foal “Maverick”
FIGURE 4 The hospital team opened the doors to visitors of all ages to showcase their work

Speaking to some of the visitors, there is no doubt that it has given them the opportunity to see just what goes on behind the scenes of an established equine practice. One even said that she was now looking at becoming a veterinary nurse when she leaves college, having met several nurses there and seeing the pictorial display on what is involved in their work.

John Periam

John is a photojournalist; he worked as a veterinary salesman in the 1960s and still has strong links to the profession through his equestrian work. John is also a regional correspondent for a trade paper for the UK fishing industry.


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