Dr. Pat Sells, BVSc, CertAVP, MRCVS
Pat qualified from Liverpool Vet School in 2007 with the Equine Clinical Prize. He spent 5 years at Rossdales in Newmarket, where he obtained his Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice and supported busy breeding operations such as Juddmonte Farms. Pat subsequently set up a stud & racing practice in New Zealand at Windsor Park Stud. When Pat moved home to the UK in 2016 he set up a stud & racing practice based at Chasemore Farm, where he is now non-exec director. Having moved to the Newbury area in 2025 he is now co-director and co-founder at Arrowdown Equine Vets. Areas of clinical interest include podiatry, sales, reproduction & orthopaedic development. Pat sits on two committees for the HBLB and is a keen ownerbreeder.
Rebecca Watson, RVN, MSc Equine Science
Rebecca Watson joined Plusvital in 2024, bringing over 15 years of equine veterinary experience and a global perspective gained across five continents. A Registered Veterinary Nurse with the RCVS and a holder of a Master’s Degree in Equine Science from the University of Edinburgh, Rebecca specialises in equine nutrition, health and performance. Registered with the UK Association for Nutrition (AfN), Rebecca combines her clinical expertise with evidence-based nutritional practice. At Plusvital, she plays a key role in product development, technical support, distributor training and providing tailored nutritional advice to help horses perform at their best.
Dr. Peter Ramzan, BVSc (Sydney), FRCVS
Pete graduated from the University of Sydney in 1994 before working in the cattle industry in Northern Australia. He moved to the UK in 1996, gaining large-animal experience before joining Rossdale and Partners, Newmarket, in 1998. He became a partner in 2005 and Clinical Director from 2021–2025. A member of Rossdale’s racing team, Pete undertakes pre-purchase examinations in the UK and worldwide and is Nominated Vet for the Hong Kong Jockey Club. He has lectured and published extensively on racehorse sports medicine, including co-authoring The Racehorse: A Veterinary Manual. Pete is an RCVS Fellow and BEVA award recipient.
Dr. Jane Boswell, MA Vet MB CertVA CertES(Orth) DipECVS MRCVS
Dr Jane Boswell is a Claims Consultant for the Veterinary Defence Society. A Cambridge graduate, she completed an internship and residency in Equine Surgery at the Royal Veterinary College, attaining the ECVS Diploma in Large Animal Surgery in 2000. She subsequently joined Liphook Equine Hospital, becoming a partner in 2006 and remaining there for 25 years. An RCVS and European-recognised Specialist in Equine Surgery, she has extensive expertise in equine surgery, lameness and advanced imaging, particularly MRI. Dr Boswell has contributed significantly to postgraduate education and specialist training, serving as an examiner for the RCVS and ECVS and founding the Vet Partners School of Equine Veterinary Nursing.
Dr. David E Freeman, MVB, MRCVS, PhD, DACVS
David Freeman graduated from the Veterinary College of Ireland in 1972 and completed an internship and residency at New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania, where he later earned his PhD. A board-certified veterinary surgeon, he held senior academic and clinical positions at the Universities of Pennsylvania, Illinois and Florida. He is Martha and Arthur Appleton Endowed Professor in Equine Studies and Director of the Island Whirl Equine Colic Research Laboratory at the University of Florida. Internationally recognised for his contributions to equine surgery, David received the ACVS Founders’ Award for Career Achievement in 2022. His clinical focus is equine gastrointestinal surgery and colic.
Dr. Desmond P. Leadon, MA, MVB, MSc, FRCVS, DipECEIM
Des was educated at Blackrock College, graduated as a Veterinary Surgeon from Trinity College Dublin in 1975 and returned there for his post-graduate MSc. studies. He came to the Centre in April 1984 having returned home to Ireland from the Rossdale practice in Newmarket, where he completed his studies on equine prematurity, with Dr. Peter Rossdale, which resulted in the award of Fellowship of the RCVS. Des is a founding Vice-President of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine, a Past President of BEVA and of WEVA, and is Veterinary Advisor to the ITBA.
Professor Ann Cullinane, MVB, PhD, MRCVS
A veterinary graduate from University College Dublin (UCD) with a PhD in equine virology from the University of Glasgow, Ann has been Head of the Virology Unit at the Irish Equine Centre (IEC) since 1987. As a World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH, formerly OIE) designated expert for equine influenza and equine herpesvirus, she is responsible for the WOAH reference laboratories located at the IEC. Ann is an Adjunct Professor at UCD and has published over 90 peer-reviewed papers that illustrate her commitment to vaccinology, diagnostics and disease control. She chairs the WOAH Expert Surveillance Panel on equine influenza and, in 2021, was elected Vice President of the WOAH Biological Standards Commission.
Dr. Donald Collins
Don is an Equine Veterinary Surgeon and is an affiliated with the Phoenix Equine Group and is based in Kildare Town.
Anne O’Brien, RVN BSc
Anne O’Brien is a veterinary professional and lecturer at University College Dublin’s School of Veterinary Medicine, with expertise in equine clinical practice, anaesthesia and diagnostic imaging. She has contributed to veterinary clinical research, including published work on advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques in horses. Anne is involved in veterinary education at UCD, helping to develop the practical clinical skills of veterinary students. Her professional interests encompass equine medicine and the delivery of high-quality clinical care, combining practical experience with academic and research activity. She is committed to veterinary education, clinical excellence and advancing knowledge in equine veterinary medicine.
Dr. Giorgio Richardi
Giorgio qualified from the University of Turin, Italy, in 1989 and completed an Equine Surgery Internship at the Animal Health Trust, Newmarket, in 1991–1992. He subsequently worked in private practice in Italy (1993–2014), developing expertise in lameness and surgery, while also serving as Contract Professor of Equine Surgery at the University of Pisa and Visiting Equine Surgeon at the University of Milan. In 2014–2015, he was Senior Clinician at Wrsan Racing Stables, Abu Dhabi. Since 2016, he has been Senior Lameness Clinician and Surgeon at Donnington Grove Equine Hospital. He is ISELP certified and serves on BEVA and WEVA boards.
Jackie Ryan RVN, DipVN
Jackie is an experienced equine veterinary nurse with more than 19 years’ experience in specialist equine practice. She obtained her Diploma in Veterinary Nursing from University College Dublin in 2009 and has worked in equine hospitals in Ireland and Australia. In 2018, Jackie moved to Qatar and joined the Equine Veterinary Medical Center, where she became Head Surgery Nurse. Her specialist interests include equine surgical nursing, anaesthesia, postoperative care, colic surgery and the management of critically ill horses. Jackie has contributed to published veterinary nursing literature and is passionate about advancing standards of equine nursing care, education and patient welfare.
Dr. Hugh Suffern MVB, MRCVS
Hugh is a highly experienced equine veterinary surgeon and founder of Tullyraine Equine Clinic in Banbridge, County Down. He graduated from Trinity College Dublin in 1981 and has devoted his career to equine veterinary medicine, with a particular focus on sport horses and performance. Hugh has served as an Irish team veterinarian at multiple Olympic Games, World Championships and European Championships, and has extensive experience as an FEI veterinarian. He has also worked with major bloodstock sales and breeding programmes, including Tattersalls and Horse Sport Ireland. A former four-star event rider himself, Hugh combines clinical expertise with first-hand understanding of equestrian sport.
Dominique Doyle RVN DipVN ISFMDipFN
Dominique is an experienced Registered Veterinary Nurse specialising in equine and donkey care. Based at The Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, UK, she has developed particular expertise in the nutritional, nursing and welfare needs of donkeys. Dominique has contributed to veterinary nursing education and is a co-author of the donkey chapter in the Textbook of Equine Veterinary Nursing, covering donkey behaviour, nutrition, anatomy, common disorders, pain recognition and nursing care. She is passionate about improving standards of donkey welfare and ensuring that veterinary professionals understand the important physiological and behavioural differences between donkeys and horses. Dominique regularly shares her specialist knowledge through veterinary education and professional CPD.
Dr. John Hanley
John graduated from University College Dublin in 2004 and gained valuable experience in the UK before joining Sandymount Vets in 2005. He has a deep passion for surgery and finds it incredibly rewarding to help pets heal, move comfortably again, and return to happy, active lives. With extensive postgraduate training in orthopaedics and a Certificate in Advanced Veterinary Practice from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in London, John brings both skill and empathy to every case he treats.As co-owner and co-director of Sandymount Vets with his wife Miriam, John leads the clinic’s orthopaedic service with a gentle, reassuring approach — ensuring every pet feels cared for and every owner supported throughout their pet’s recovery. Outside the clinic, he enjoys sport, music, and long walks with the family’s terrier.
Dr Emma Adam BVetMed, PhD, MRCVS, DACVIM, DACVS
Emma is an internationally recognised equine veterinarian, researcher and educator specialising in the health and performance of the equine athlete. She is Associate Professor and Faculty for Equine Veterinary Outreach, Liaison and Research at the University of Kentucky’s Gluck Equine Research Center. A graduate of the Royal Veterinary College, London, Emma completed specialist training in equine internal medicine at Texas A&M University and equine surgery at the University of Pennsylvania, achieving board certification in both disciplines. Her research interests include musculoskeletal science, regenerative medicine, infectious disease and equine health, while her current work focuses on research, education and industry outreach.
Dr Joe Collins MVB, PhD, CSci, CBiol, FRSB, MRCVS, CertEP, CertVR
Joe is an experienced equine veterinarian and internationally recognised animal welfare specialist. He graduated from University College Dublin in 1987 and subsequently worked in equine practice in Ireland and the UK, including a three-year equine clinical residency at Cambridge University Veterinary School. Joe later completed a PhD focused on equine health and welfare in Ireland. He is Chief Veterinary Advisor (Europe) at The Donkey Sanctuary and President of the Federation of European Equine Veterinary Associations (FEEVA). He has previously served as President of Veterinary Ireland and has extensive experience in animal welfare, veterinary medicines and professional standards.
Dr. Jill Bryan BSc (Vet Path), MVB, DipECEIM, FRCPath, MRCVS
Jill is Head of Pathology and an RCVS Specialist in Veterinary Pathology (Equine). She qualified from University College Dublin in 2003, having completed a BSc in Veterinary Pathology at the Royal Veterinary College. Following equine practice, she undertook a residency in Equine Internal Medicine, becoming a Diplomate of the European College of Equine Internal Medicine in 2011. She later completed a Veterinary Pathology residency and FRCPath qualification. Based in Newmarket, Jill has seven years’ experience as an equine diagnostic pathologist, specialising in equine abortion investigations, infectious diseases and collaborative research.
Dr. Jeremiah O’Sullivan MVB, CertVR, Cert ISELP, MRCVS
Jeremiah is an experienced Irish equine veterinary surgeon and founder of Clinic na gCapall in County Carlow. He graduated from University College Dublin in 1984 before working as a house surgeon at the Royal Veterinary School in Edinburgh and subsequently lecturing in large animal surgery at UCD. Jeremiah later gained postgraduate certification in veterinary radiology and spent more than a decade in equine practice on the Curragh. He has a particular interest in diagnostic imaging, orthopaedics and lameness, and has twice won the British Equine Veterinary Association’s imaging competition. He is also a certified member of ISELP.
Kirsty McCann DipVN
Kirsty is an experienced equine veterinary nurse and equine healthcare professional with extensive experience across veterinary nursing, nutrition and the wider equestrian industry. She trained in Veterinary Nursing at University College Dublin and spent several years as a lead equine nurse at a major equine referral hospital on the Curragh. Kirsty subsequently worked in equine nutrition before joining Forte Healthcare in 2021. She is now General Manager of ARKequine in Ireland and the UK, supporting the development and delivery of innovative equine healthcare solutions. Kirsty combines clinical knowledge, practical horsemanship and industry experience, with particular interests in equine nutrition, preventative healthcare and welfare.
Dr Lisa Reidy MVB, MSc, BA (Hons) Law, A.M.
Lisa is a veterinary practitioner, employment law specialist and experienced workplace mediator. With more than 20 years’ experience in veterinary practice and education, she has worked across food-animal and companion-animal veterinary medicine in Ireland. Lisa combines her veterinary expertise with legal and mediation training to support veterinary practices with employment law compliance, workplace policies, conflict resolution and human-resource management. She is the founder of The HR Vet, Ireland’s veterinary-focused HR service, providing tailored support to independent veterinary practices. Lisa also has extensive experience in veterinary education, lecturing in veterinary nursing and bioveterinary science.
Kevin Quigg, Master Farrier
Kevin is a highly experienced Master Farrier based in County Down, Northern Ireland, with a strong reputation within the equine industry. A member of the Irish Master Farriers Association, Kevin has developed extensive expertise in professional farriery and the management of hoof health and soundness in horses. He is also actively involved in promoting the farriery profession and supporting the development of emerging talent. Kevin has organised and supported farrier competitions in Northern Ireland, providing opportunities for apprentices and experienced farriers to demonstrate their skills and share knowledge. His commitment to craftsmanship, education and high standards makes him a respected figure within the farriery community.
Lisa Devane B.Sc. VN, B.Sc. Ag
Lisa is Equine Business Development Manager at Interchem, supporting the Irish and UK equine veterinary sectors. She began her career in equine veterinary nursing and spent several years as Head Veterinary Nurse at Fethard Equine Hospital in County Tipperary. Lisa joined Interchem/PharVet in 2019 as an Inside Sales Executive before progressing to her current role in 2023. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Veterinary Nursing and a BSc (Hons) in Agricultural Science from TUS Athlone. Lisa has particular expertise in equine healthcare, with interests spanning osteoarthritis, digestive health, nutrition, preventative care and veterinary-exclusive nutraceuticals.
Dr Marcus Swail BVMS, CertEqSportsMed, MRCVS
Marcus is an internationally recognised equine sports medicine veterinarian and founder of EquiVET Ireland. He graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1993 and has specialised in lameness, orthopaedics, performance evaluation, advanced imaging and pre-purchase examinations. Marcus established EquiVET Ireland in 2008 after working at Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital and has built a leading practice focused on competition horses. He has served as a Team Veterinarian for Ireland’s equestrian teams, attending multiple Olympic and World Equestrian Games and European Championships. Marcus is also a respected international speaker and regularly shares his expertise in equine sports medicine and performance veterinary care.
Michelle Fogarty
Michelle is a highly experienced bloodstock professional and Bloodstock Operations Manager with Weatherbys in Ireland. She developed her passion for Thoroughbreds after completing an Equine Management course in Kildare, followed by Equine Science at the University of Limerick. Her early career included valuable experience at Lane’s End Farm in Kentucky and Kiltinan Stud before joining Weatherbys. Michelle has extensive expertise in pedigree research, bloodstock administration and Thoroughbred breeding, including the management of equine passports and breeding records. She is actively involved in the Irish bloodstock industry and regularly contributes her knowledge to breeder education and industry events.
Dr. Mark MacRedmond MVB CertVPM MRCVS
Dr Siobhan McAuliffe MVB, DACVIM, Cert RA
Siobhan is an internationally experienced equine internal medicine specialist. She graduated from University College Dublin in 1997 and completed a residency in Large Animal Internal Medicine at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Kentucky. She subsequently served as Head of Medicine for the Stables of King Abdullah in Saudi Arabia before working in private practice in Kentucky. In 2010, she joined Kawell Equine Hospital in Buenos Aires as Head of Neonatology. Returning to Ireland in 2017, she established a medicine and neonatology unit at Fethard Equine Hospital. Siobhan now works as an equine internal medicine consultant and veterinary technical advisor.
Peter O’Reilly
Peter O’Reilly is Chief Executive of the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association (ITBA), bringing extensive experience across the Irish bloodstock and racing industry. A small breeder and long-standing ITBA member, Peter also serves on the board of the Association of Irish Racehorse Owners. From a family deeply involved in bloodstock, he has been around horses throughout his life, from hunting and racing to breeding. A former amateur rider, Peter has participated in charity and racing challenges, including riding at every Irish racecourse in 24 hours. Before joining the ITBA, he enjoyed a successful career in financial services before establishing his own business.
Dr Jennie Henderson BVSc, MSc, Cert EM (StudMed), DipECEIM, MRCVS
Jennie is a European Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine and Resident Veterinarian at Ballylinch Stud, Ireland. She graduated from Liverpool University in 2002 before completing an internship at Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital in Australia and a residency in Equine Internal Medicine at Edinburgh University. Jennie subsequently worked for three seasons at Godolphin’s Kildangan Stud before spending seven years at Newmarket Equine Hospital, where she ran the neonatal intensive care service. She has extensive expertise in equine internal medicine, neonatology and Thoroughbred breeding, and is actively involved in research, education and veterinary industry initiatives.
Dr. Simon Hennessy MVB, MSc, CertAVP(ESO)(ESST), MRCVS, DipECVS
Simon is an EBVS Recognised Specialist in Equine Surgery at Anglesey Lodge Equine Hospital, County Kildare. He graduated from University College Dublin in 2007 and completed surgical residencies at the University of Glasgow and University of Liverpool. Simon has extensive international experience in equine surgery, having worked in Australia, Sweden and Ireland before joining Anglesey Lodge in 2020. His clinical interests include equine orthopaedic and soft-tissue surgery, with particular expertise in advanced surgical techniques and upper airway disorders. He is actively involved in research, veterinary education and professional conferences, regularly presenting on contemporary equine surgical practice.
Dr Lynn Hillyer, Chief Veterinary Officer and Head of Anti-Doping, IHRB
Lynn Hilyer became Chief Veterinary Officer and Head of Anti-Doping for the Irish Horseracing Regulatory Board (IHRB) in September 2016, leading veterinary, regulatory and anti-doping activities alongside her specialist team. She began her career in large animal practice before specialising in equine medicine and joining the British Horseracing Authority, where she served as Veterinary Adviser while continuing as a racecourse Veterinary Officer from 2005. An internationally recognised equine regulatory veterinarian, Lynn has chaired the International Group of Specialist Racing Veterinarians and contributed to several IFHA committees, including those covering prohibited substances, horse movement and welfare. She has extensive expertise in racing regulation, equine health and welfare.
Dr Sean Finan
Sean graduated from University College Dublin in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine. He undertook an internship at Fethard Equine Hospital. In 2011 he moved to Australia and completed a residency in Theriogenology at Goulburn Valley Equine Hospital under the mentorship of Dr Angus McKinnon, passing the board certifying exam of the American College of Theriogenologists in 2014. After this he worked as a resident vet for Arrowfield Stud, a large thoroughbred stud in Australia’s Hunter Valley, with the occasional northern hemisphere season in Newmarket, UK and Ireland. In 2023 he moved to Ireland permanently where he works at Sycamore Lodge Equine Hospital, Co. Kildare. Sean’s professional work is predominantly focused on Thoroughbred reproduction.
Dr Orla McGlynn DVM, MRCVS, BSc
Orla is an experienced equine veterinarian with an international background in clinical practice and Thoroughbred sales. She completed an equine surgical internship at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Kentucky before working in equine practice in Ireland and the USA. Since 2019, Orla has worked with Equine Medical Associates in Kentucky, undertaking pre-purchase examinations and Thoroughbred sales work throughout Europe. She also runs her own ambulatory equine veterinary practice, providing comprehensive veterinary care to horses. With broad experience across equine surgery, emergency care, sales and general practice, Orla combines practical clinical expertise with a strong commitment to equine health and welfare.