"I have a special interest in eyes, but they’re only about 5% of my work," began Ann Dwyer, DVM, of Genesee Valley Equine Clinic in Scottsville, N.Y., at the Western Veterinary Conference Feb. 20-24 in Las Vegas, Nev. "I’m a practitioner, not a researcher.

"The life of the road warrior (ambulatory practitioner) is fun, challenging, and never boring," she said, implying that these practitioners see a wide range of health issues and are challenged to provide an initial diagnosis and treatment of these myriad problems. "Some problems will always have to be referred to specialists, but the average practitioner can diagnose, treat, and monitor 85% of the eye problems that are seen in the field."

This presentation centered on equine ophthalmology evaluation, tools, and diagnoses for the ambulatory practitioner–i.e., one working in the field without access to referral clinic-level equipment, staff, and facilities. She first focused on the equipment that every practitioner should keep in the truck for eye examinations. "One of your most important tools is a Mag-Lite–90% of what you need to see can be seen with a good penlight," she commented. "And a digital camera is invaluable for recording problems. I now have over 4,000 images in just over a year (of using the camera); I can take a picture, go home, and compare it to books, etc."

In terms of ambulatory ophthalmology practice, she noted that clean patient preparation was essential. "Glove for diagnosis and treatment: Barns are dirty!" she stated. She also discussed equipment and techniques for various eye tests, and sedation protocols for eye exams and procedures