Veterinarian reviews mobile clinic benefits for horse care in Finland

Veterinarian Hanna Porthan reviews X-rays of Lexi, a horse, at the stable of Kajaani-based Kirsi Hynninen. Porthan and Hynninen took about half an hour for the imaging. Had Hynninen opted to travel to the nearest clinic in Kuopio, Oulu, or Kiuruvesi, the trip could have easily consumed a full workday. The X-rays will help assess the appropriateness of shoeing for the competitive horse.

Mobile veterinary clinics, like Porthan’s, are still a rarity in Finland, though the Finnish Veterinary Association’s chairman, Mikko Turku, notes that the practice is becoming more common. “It largely depends on the region whether it is cost-effective to transport as much equipment as possible in a mobile clinic,” Turku explains. Porthan’s vehicle is equipped with various supplies, from medications to portable X-ray machines. She mentions that horse owners are willing to pay for the convenience of having a veterinarian come to them. Beyond financial considerations, time savings play a crucial role, as many clients lack transportation options.

Home visits have also increased for small animals, such as dogs and cats, in recent years. “At-home euthanasias are more comfortable for both the animal and the owners,” Turku points out. He emphasizes the critical role of mobile veterinarians in caring for large animals like horses and livestock. Porthan highlights a shortage of veterinarians, particularly in remote areas, as she mainly serves eastern Finland and operates a clinic in Kiuruvesi. Increased consolidation of veterinary services in several municipalities can hinder access, especially for pet owners without their own transportation. While such consolidation has benefits, including support from colleagues and easier equipment acquisition, it also means clinics can be far away, making transport challenging for some horses.