Life-size equine colic model
Equine vet students at the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies have been improving their ability to diagnose colic, by practising on a life-size model.
The equine anatomical model, which was imported from Canada, is the first of its kind in the UK.
It contains large intestines and other organs that are made of latex. These can be inflated to different degrees, in order to help familiarise students with the condition colic.
Colic causes abdominal pain and affects many horses during their lifetime. It is the leading cause of premature death in horses, therefore the model will benefit students in helping them recognise the condition.
Equine vet students have been performing internal examinations on the life-size horse, and are also using it to identify reproductive problems in mares.
The model is part of the school's Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education, and joins both canine and cow simulators, as well as models to practise suturing skin, intubation and neutering techniques.
The Marchig Animal Welfare Trust, who funded the centre, seeks alternatives to the use of animals in teaching and research.
Dr Catriona Bell, senior lecturer in veterinary education at the school, said: "The realistic attributes of these models will allow students to learn and then refine their basic dexterity and practical skills before undertaking the procedures of live animals.
"This is not only safer and less stressful for the students, but is also importantly a more welfare-friendly way of learning."
BSAVA is to partner with BVA Live (11-12 June 2026) to champion clinical research.
