4075 Iron Works Parkway • Lexington, KY 40511
Phone: 859-233-0147 • Fax: 859-233-1968
e-mail: aaepoffice@aaep.org

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History


A Historical Journey
From its beginnings in the basement of the Brown Hotel in Louisville, Kentucky, 11 veterinarians chartered the American Association of Equine Practitioners with determination to demand excellence among its practitioners, and meticulous concern for the health and welfare of the horse. Since that day in 1954, the AAEP membership has expanded to nearly 10,000 veterinarians and veterinary students representing 64 countries who dedicate their life's work to caring for the horse. The AAEP provides the opportunity for veterinarians in all types of practices, from all parts of the world, to join together in a common pursuit: to protect the health and welfare of the horse.
 
To the Horse
From a child's pony to a stakes winning Thoroughbred, horses are top priority for the AAEP. As a result of tremendous advancements in equine sports medicine within the last decade, horses from the barnyard to the winner's circle are proving to be heartier, healthier animals. The AAEP has called special attention to finding cures and treatments for particular problems. The AAEP is an active participant in equine research and development programs.
 
To the Owner
The practice of veterinary medicine embraces all animal species and is focused into many disciplines including surgery, internal medicine, and diagnostics. The equine practitioner, and every AAEP member, includes or even limits their practice to the horse assuring the most individualized and specialized medical care available today. AAEP members have interest in the care of horses well beyond their professional practice. Many veterinarians not only practice equine medicine, but also own their own and enjoy horses for business and pleasure. As horse owners and enthusiasts themselves, AAEP members have a unique perspective on the concerns of their clients and the people responsible for the well-being of their horses. In an effort to encourage regular health maintenance and preventive medicine programs, the AAEP is actively involved in public education programs regarding prevention and treatment of injury and disease as well as programs on nutrition and parasite control.
 
To the Industry
Ranging from animal welfare to uniform medication rules for racing, the AAEP stands as a solid source of information for the entire equine industry. As a liaison to such organizations as The American Horse Council and other industry associations, the AAEP dedicates time and resources to provide a consistent veterinary perspective to contemporary equine issues. With its commitment to research and development, the AAEP also maintains its presence with schools of veterinary medicine and equine research institutions and organizations throughout the world.
 
To the Veterinarian

Today, AAEP veterinarians carry the AAEP charter to maintain and improve the health and welfare of the horse. Renowned as the most prestigious and comprehensive equine veterinary meeting, the AAEP annual convention and the published proceedings of its professional sessions are in demand throughout the equine and veterinary industries. As a result of its commitment to excellence in continuing education for members, the AAEP is expanding its communications base. With great advancement in diagnostics, surgery, preventative medicine, and reproduction, the AAEP is aggressively addressing equine welfare, medication, and injury issues. The AAEP is concerned with the public image of the equine veterinary profession. Improvements in ethics and standards, practice management and owner education continue to be important issues for AAEP members. The equine practitioner commands a strong position and an authoritative voice within the equine industry today, and the AAEP strives to enhance this position.



Copyright © 1996-2009 American Association of Equine Practitioners.
All rights reserved.
American Association of Equine Practitioners
4075 Iron Works Parkway • Lexington, KY 40511
Phone: 859-233-0147 • Fax: 859-233-1968
e-mail: aaepoffice@aaep.org