AMBULATORY SERVICES
Our ambulatory veterinarians provide expert equine veterinary care at your horse’s home or training environment, allowing the examination, diagnosis, and treatment to be carried out in familiar surroundings. They are equipped with portable diagnostic tools, including digital radiography and ultrasonography, enabling high‑quality assessments to be performed in the field. Ambulatory services support preventative healthcare such as vaccinations and dentistry, as well as the investigation and management of acute illness or injury, lameness and many minor surgical procedures. By delivering professional veterinary care in the field, our ambulatory veterinarians provide practical, timely support for horse owners and trainers.
DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY
Digital radiology is a diagnostic imaging modality that uses computer‑based software to generate X‑ray images of horses. It is a vital tool in equine practice, commonly used to investigate lameness, identify fractures, evaluate joint disease, and detect other skeletal abnormalities, as well as to support pre‑purchase examinations (PPEs). The portability of digital radiography systems enables rapid acquisition of high‑quality images in field conditions.
ULTRASONOGRAPHY
Ultrasonography is a diagnostic imaging modality that uses high‑frequency sound waves to create real‑time images of soft tissues and fluid‑filled structures. It is especially valuable in equine practice, as many equine injuries involve soft tissues that are not well visualised using radiography. Ultrasonography is non‑invasive and can be performed with the horse standing, making it well suited for use in field settings. It is widely utilised in the investigation of lameness as well as in reproductive examinations.
DENTISTRY
Equine dentistry involves the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of dental disorders in horses. Ongoing dental care is essential, as horses’ teeth continually erupt throughout much of their lives. Without regular attention, dental abnormalities can lead to significant issues affecting welfare, performance, digestion, and behaviour.
At Matamata Veterinary Services - Equine, our veterinarians provide comprehensive equine dental care—from routine examinations and corrective dentistry to advanced surgical procedures, including complex tooth extractions. Our team is equipped with the expertise and technology needed to keep your horse comfortable, healthy, and performing at its best.
PRE-PURCHASE EXAMINATIONS
A pre‑purchase examination (PPE), commonly referred to as a vetting, is a clinical assessment performed by a veterinarian to evaluate a horse’s current health, soundness, and suitability for its intended purpose prior to purchase. The aim of a PPE is to identify existing or potential clinical issues, assess associated risks, and provide the buyer with informed guidance regarding any findings that may impact future performance or longevity.
A Two‑Stage PPE is typically recommended for pleasure horses and low‑level competition horses and consists of a thorough clinical examination at rest, followed by assessment of the horse trotting in hand. A Five‑Stage PPE is advised for performance horses, competition and racehorses, and high‑value animals. This more comprehensive examination includes evaluation during strenuous exercise and recovery, allowing for the detection of exercise‑related soundness, respiratory, and behavioural issues.
In addition to the clinical examination, a PPE may be supplemented with further diagnostic investigations such as radiography (including standard PPE X‑ray sets), ultrasonography, endoscopy for upper airway evaluation, and blood testing to screen for medications or prohibited substances.
PROFESSIONAL EQUINE CARE AT YOUR STABLE
We provide professional, field-based care in the environment where your horse feels most comfortable.
Expert veterinary care for horse health, performance, and wellbeing. Based in Matamata, our dedicated team provides ambulatory and clinic services across the Waikato 24/7, 365 days a year.
CONTACT
07 888 8193
equine@matamatavets.co.nz
362 Hinuera Road, RD2 Matamata
Waikato, NZ
Normal clinic hours:
8am - 5pm Monday - Friday
Emergency calls accepted anytime.
