Dr Sue Dyson Honoured in Hall of Fame

Dr Sue Dyson, world-renowned expert in equine orthopaedics, is one of only three scientists who will be inducted into the Equine Research Hall of Fame, at the University of Kentucky this October.

As Head of Department at leading veterinary research charity, the Animal Health Trust (AHT), her service and contribution to equine research has been recognised and rewarded by her peers, colleagues and previous inductees, who have nominated her for this accolade.

“I am very pleased to honour three outstanding members of the equine research community, with their upcoming induction into the UK Equine Research Hall of Fame” said David Horohov, Director at the university, “I am particularly pleased how this year’s nominees’ research programs have focused on athletic performance. Each has made important contributions to equine health and well-being in this area. Their efforts have greatly contributed to our increased awareness and sensitivity to the health and safety needs of these athletes.”

With a strong background as a rider and a particular interest in lameness and poor performance in sports horses, Sue has an in-depth knowledge and understanding of performance problems in horses of all disciplines. Sue studied veterinary medicine and surgery at the University of Cambridge, before completing post graduate work at the University of Pennsylvania. Returning to the UK, she began working at Animal Health Trust (AHT), where she has dedicated almost 35 years to treating hundreds of patients each year, all of which contributing to her pioneering research.

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“As a lameness clinician, I feel humbled and honoured to have been elected to join an elite band of scientists in the UK Equine Research Hall of Fame. I owe a huge debt of gratitude, not only to the friends and colleagues with whom I’ve had the privilege to work, but of course also to the horses, which provide endless challenges. I have been constantly inspired to try to improve the welfare of these fantastic athletes,” said Sue.

Some of Sue’s most ground breaking research includes validating the usefulness and limitations of ultrasonography, scintigraphy and MRI for routine diagnostic use. This data has then been translated into practical benefits for improving the accuracy of diagnosis and treatment for all horses suffering from injury, at the AHT Equine Clinic and beyond. Sue may see hundreds of horses each year at the Clinic, but her research is available to support and improve the knowledge of all vets, helping more horses than will ever be checked in at the AHT. Sue continues to investigate equine health and welfare, with current projects focusing on the recognition of pain in horses, the influence of tack and a rider on lameness and how horses adapt their gait in the face of injury. Next year will be Sue’s 35th year at the AHT, but inspired by the resilience of these athletes, she still works tirelessly to improve their care for years to come.

Sue will be presented with a plaque and trophy at the university’s induction ceremony in October. For more information on Sue’s and the AHT’s extensive equine research visit: http://www.aht.org.uk/horses