In the realm of equine veterinary medicine, a dedicated group of professionals plays a vital role in caring for horses. Among them is Shannon Vesledahl B.S, CVT, an exceptional Equine Vet Tech from the University of Minnesota. With unwavering commitment, she embodies the essence of a true equine advocate. In this article, we explore Shannon's remarkable journey, experiences, and expertise in ensuring the well-being of our equine companions.

Can you describe your background and what inspired you to become an equine veterinarian technician?

I'm originally from the Northfield, Minnesota area, and my journey toward becoming an equine veterinarian technician started at a young age. I began riding horses when I was just 3 or 4 years old and spent several years showing western pleasure. After high school, I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Animal Science with a focus on Equine Management at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. It was during this time that I worked as a breeding manager at a Percheron farm for about a year, where my passion for caring for horses truly took root.

During my time at the Percheron farm, I had the opportunity to interact with veterinarians and veterinary technicians when they visited the farm. Their work fascinated me, and I decided to pursue a career in the veterinary industry. While studying to earn my vet tech degree, I also worked on the barn crew at the University of Minnesota. Upon completing my tech degree, I undertook an internship at the University of Minnesota, where I worked as a float for a couple of years. Eventually, I was hired by Dr. Nicolas Ernst to join his team as a surgery tech at the large animal hospital.

What does a typical day look like for you as an equine vet tech? Are there any specific responsibilities or tasks that you find particularly rewarding or challenging?

My work as an equine vet tech is incredibly diverse, and every day presents new challenges and opportunities. Some days, I may spend my time jogging horses and running CT scans, while others might find me in the operating room assisting surgeons or handling emergency intake cases.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is collaborating closely with our veterinarians to diagnose and treat horses. I take great satisfaction in helping our doctors determine the root cause of lameness or illness in a horse and assisting them in making decisions about the best treatment options. It's especially fulfilling when we can provide answers to horse owners who have previously sought help from multiple veterinarians without success.

Could you share some of the different areas within equine veterinary medicine that you specialize in or have a particular interest in?

My specialization within equine veterinary medicine primarily revolves around diagnostic imaging and sports medicine. When we installed our CT scanner in 2019, I really fell in love with performing CT’s. The ability to obtain highly detailed images within minutes is truly remarkable. I often take the lead in CT procedures and assist others in using the scanner effectively.

What are some of the most common issues that you encounter when scanning horses with the Equina CT scanner?

Shannon setting up a horse for a CT scan of the hind legs.

Scanning horses with the Equina CT scanner presents some common challenges, particularly regarding sedation protocols. Horses are highly individual, and their responses to sedation can vary widely. Factors like breed, age, and temperament all influence how a horse will react to sedation. It's essential to closely observe each horse and gather input from the owner to tailor the sedation approach accordingly.

Additionally, understanding the specific issue or area of concern in the horse's body is crucial for setting up a successful scan. This is a skill we emphasize in our training for using the CT scanner. It's important to approach each scan with flexibility and adaptability, taking into account the horse's unique characteristics and the purpose of the scan.

What are the most common pathology issues you find with the Equina CT scanner?

With the Equina CT scanner, we encounter a range of pathology issues, depending on the area being scanned.

In head and neck CT scans, we frequently identify dental problems, and the CT technology has transformed how we approach equine dentistry. Instead of taking multiple x-rays from different angles, which can be time-consuming, we can now capture comprehensive 3D images of the entire head within minutes. Additionally, we've detected cases of temporohyoid osteoarthropathy (THO) during CT studies.

In leg pair scans, one common issue we uncover is navicular disease. While traditional x-rays might not always reveal abnormalities, the CT scanner provides a clearer picture of the condition. We also see a lot of splint bone fractures with the CT scanner.

What is your favorite part about the Equina CT scanner?

My favorite aspect of the Equina CT scanner is its ability to generate 3D reconstructions of the scanned area. It's incredibly satisfying to view these detailed images on the computer screen. Our veterinarians find the soft tissue filter particularly valuable for identifying soft tissue swelling or tendon lesions.

Are there any recent developments in the field that have particularly excited you?

The rapid advancements in technology within veterinary medicine have been truly exciting. We've progressed from film x-rays to digital imaging, which was a significant improvement in itself. Now, with the availability of the CT scanner, we can perform more comprehensive evaluations in a fraction of the time. Additionally, the use of lameness locators, which involve placing sensors on horses, has been remarkable in aiding lameness diagnosis. The integration of these technologies into veterinary medicine holds immense promise for the future.

3D reconstruction from Bunny showing soft tissue damage.

Can you tell us about a particularly memorable or heartwarming experience you've had as an equine vet tech that has left a lasting impact on you?

One of the most heartwarming experiences I've had as an equine vet tech involved a mare named Bunny. She came to us with a seemingly minor laceration that appeared unusual. We decided to take X-rays, which did not provide a clear picture due to predominantly soft tissue and tendon sheath damage. To get a more accurate diagnosis, we conducted a CT scan, which revealed the extent of soft tissue damage.

The next day, Bunny underwent surgery, which was successful. Her owners were impressed by the procedure, and this case showcased the incredible capabilities of the CT scanner. Bunny's story remains close to my heart because she was such a sweet mare, and knowing that she could return to full work was immensely rewarding.

Can you share some insights into the emotional and personal rewards of working with horses and being a part of their care journey?

Working with horses and being a part of their care journey is emotionally fulfilling. For those of us who grew up with horses, we've experienced both the joys and the heartbreaks associated with these animals. The emotional connection we have with horses and their owners runs deep.

In cases of heartbreak, the sense of loss is shared by everyone in the clinic. It's particularly rewarding when we can make a significant difference in the lives of horses facing severe lameness, lacerations, or colic. My approach to every patient is as if they were my own horse, and when cases turn out positively, the satisfaction of seeing horses leave the hospital healed is immeasurable. In cases where the outcome is less favorable, we do everything possible to support the patient, and the empathy we feel for the owner is profound.

How do you collaborate with veterinarians, fellow vet techs, and other professionals to provide the best possible care for the horses you work with?

Effective communication is paramount in equine veterinary medicine. We maintain constant communication with veterinarians, fellow vet techs, and other professionals to ensure seamless collaboration. This communication extends to discussions about medications, diagnostic approaches, and surgical procedures.

As a team, we actively share ideas and insights to enhance our collective knowledge and skills. Our strong relationships with the veterinarians at the University of Minnesota facilitate this collaborative approach.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering a career as an equine veterinarian technician? Are there any specific skills, qualities, or education that are essential for success in this field?

If you're considering a career as an equine veterinarian technician, I offer the following advice:

Shannon setting up a horse for a CT scan of the head/neck.

Gain as much hands-on horse experience as possible, including tasks like stall cleaning, grooming, and exercising horses. This practical experience will be invaluable.
When pursuing your vet tech degree, be the first to arrive and the last to leave. Show dedication by being the hardest worker on your team and demonstrate your commitment to learning and growth.
Embrace every opportunity to acquire new skills and knowledge. Be open to continuous learning, as the field of veterinary medicine is constantly evolving.
Develop strong observational skills, as well as the ability to adapt and think critically in high-pressure situations.
Build a strong foundation in communication, both with colleagues and horse owners. Effective communication is essential in this field.

Are there any misconceptions about equine veterinary technicians or the work you do that you'd like to clarify or address?

There are often misconceptions about the role of equine veterinary technicians and the scope of our work. Our work goes far beyond simply holding horses for veterinarians. In reality, we are actively involved in performing diagnostics, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs. We work closely alongside veterinarians and surgeons, especially during emergencies, in many situations we have to know what the surgeon is thinking before they even say it.

In addition to our technical skills, we rely on strong intuition and the ability to detect subtle signs of distress in patients. Our job is demanding, requiring a deep understanding of equine behavior, physiology, and pathology. We take pride in being an integral part of the veterinary team, contributing significantly to the care and well-being of the horses we serve.

What do you envision for the future of equine veterinary medicine, and how do you see the role of equine vet techs evolving in response to changing needs and technology?

Shannon operating the CT scanner as it switches from head mode to limb mode.

The future of equine veterinary medicine is exciting, particularly due to the ongoing advancements in technology. As technology becomes more accessible, it will play an increasingly significant role in our field. The role of equine vet techs will need to evolve alongside these changes. We will need to continuously update our skills and knowledge to effectively utilize new technologies and diagnostic tools. The future holds great promise for our profession, and I believe the industry will thrive as more individuals join our field.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Shannon Vesledahl for generously sharing her time with the Asto CT team, discussing her career. Our interaction with her has been enlightening, and it's evident why she excels in her profession. Kudos to you, Shannon!

Equine Vet Tech Spotlight on Shannon Vesledahl from the University of Minnesota