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Summary of dissertation

This dissertation focuses on the human aspects of equine veterinary practice. In modern society, horses are no longer (primarily) working animals but are mainly kept for sport, leisure, and therapy. At the same time, public interest in animal welfare and ethics is rising. These developments affect the daily work of equine veterinarians, who face high expectations from horse owners, public scrutiny, and complex moral and professional challenges.

The central research question is how equine veterinarians can effectively respond to owner expectations while safeguarding equine welfare and their own (professional) wellbeing. The studies in this thesis explore both owner and veterinarian perspectives, with a focus on client satisfaction, and job engagement.

Seven key aspects influencing client satisfaction were identified; quality of care, quality of service, horsemanship, interpersonal skills, professionalism, transfer of knowledge and financial aspects. Results show that owner expectations vary depending on background and type, requiring a more tailored, client-centered approach from veterinarians. 

Job satisfaction among equine veterinarians was shown to depend on four factors; pride and purpose, company culture and management relationships, working conditions and compensation, and team culture and development opportunities. 

Sustainable equine veterinary practice requires more than resilience; it calls for supportive work environments and a renewed focus on interpersonal skills in both education and practice.

In summary, this thesis demonstrates that equine veterinary practice is not only about horses, but equally about people. As stated in the final sentence of the thesis: It’s not just “about the horse”; it’s equally about the people around it.

PLEASE NOTE: If a candidate gives a layman's talk, the livestream will start fifteen minutes earlier.