Business Details
17 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Trusted Equine Veterinary Care in South East Scotland
EQUITAIT Veterinary Practice is a family-run equine specialist practice serving South East Scotland and North Northumberland. Established in 2009, we combine decades of equine veterinary expertise with a commitment to continuity of care. Our team of experienced equine vets and dedicated support staff deliver a full range of services from two purpose-built facilities in Duns and Lauder. We prioritise accessible, high-quality care through 24/7 emergency availability and routine services including dental care, vaccinations, lameness diagnostics, and advanced diagnostics.Our approach integrates modern veterinary techniques with traditional values, ensuring horses receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs. We maintain strong relationships with local racing yards, livery facilities, and pleasure horse owners, supporting both competitive and companion animals. Our practice philosophy emphasizes preventive care, client education, and evidence-based treatments to maintain equine health and performance.
Services
Dental Care
Vaccinations
Lameness Diagnostics
Breeding Services
Emergency Care
Gastroscopy
Radiography
Surgery
Diagnostics
Details
- Year established: 2009
Highlights and features
- 24/7 emergency veterinary services available
- Experienced equine specialists with international competition experience
- Advanced diagnostic capabilities including gastroscopy and ultrasonography
- Local knowledge of Scottish Borders and North Northumberland equine communities
- Comprehensive preventive care programs including Wise Worming
What people say
24/7 emergency availability
Specialist equine knowledge
Experienced veterinary team
Comprehensive preventive programs
Responsive care
Services
Dental Care
Our qualified equine vets provide comprehensive dental care using both manual and motorised equipment. Services include routine rasping, wolf tooth removal, and treatment of complex conditions like diastema. We recommend annual check-ups for adult horses and bi-annual examinations for youngstock. Emergency dental care is available 24/7 with sedation options for thorough treatment.
Vaccinations
We offer core vaccinations against diseases like tetanus and flu, plus strangles prevention. Our services include pre-movement blood testing and documentation required by livery yards. Vaccination records are maintained for insurance compliance and we provide tailored programs based on individual horse usage and risk factors.
Worming Program
The Wise Worming program combines faecal egg counts with strategic treatments to combat resistance. We provide testing kits, interpretation services, and tailored treatment plans. Our approach preserves drug effectiveness while maintaining horse health through evidence-based parasite management strategies and pasture management advice.
Breeding Services
Comprehensive reproductive care includes mare fertility assessments, foaling assistance, and neonatal checks. We provide post-foaling examinations, vaccination programs for youngstock, and microchipping services. Our team supports breeders through every stage from pre-breeding checks to weaning management.
Gastroscopy
We diagnose gastric ulcers using advanced 3.3m video endoscopes. The procedure under light sedation allows real-time visualisation of stomach lining conditions. We provide treatment plans combining medication with management changes, plus follow-up monitoring to ensure ulcer resolution and prevent recurrence.
People
Colin Tait
Founder & Veterinary Surgeon
Established EQUITAIT in 2009 after gaining experience at Arundel Equine Hospital and Cambridge University. Specialises in sports horse medicine and has worked at major equestrian events including the London Olympics. Holds MRCVS accreditation.
Carly Martin-Pope
Veterinary Surgeon
Graduated from Edinburgh in 2010 with focus on sports horses and lameness. Qualified RCVS Riding Establishment Inspector and FEI veterinary surgeon. Brings expertise from working with National Hunt race yards to our Borders practice.
Catriona Gow
Veterinary Surgeon
Joined in 2023 after practicing in the US and UK. Graduated from Glasgow University with interests spanning all equine disciplines. Combines clinical work with rugby and dog walking pursuits in her spare time.
Emma Page
Support Team
Joined in 2012 after biological research career. Manages administrative operations while maintaining family farming connections. Brings organisational expertise and local equine community knowledge to our team.
Angela Tatum
Support Team
Equine industry professional with 10 years as an equine nurse before transitioning to practice management. Applies pharmaceutical industry experience to medication management and client education within our Borders-based team.
Questions
What equine services do you offer?
We provide full equine care including vaccinations, dental work, lameness diagnostics, breeding support, and 24/7 emergency services. See our website for full service details.
Do you offer 24-hour emergency care?
Yes, our vets are available 24/7 for emergencies. Call 01361 889106 at any time for urgent equine medical needs.
How can I pay for services?
We accept online payments for invoices and traditional payment methods. Contact our office for specific payment arrangements.
Do you serve areas outside Duns?
We cover South East Scotland and North Northumberland, with a second facility in Lauder for client convenience.
What preventive care programs exist?
Our Wise Worming program and annual dental/vaccination plans help maintain equine health while reducing long-term costs.
Can you assist with horse passports?
Yes, we handle microchipping and passport documentation in accordance with UK equine identification regulations.
