The Role of the FEI Veterinary Services Manager: Putting Horse Welfare First at International Equestrian Events
Behind every successful international equestrian competition is a dedicated team working to safeguard equine health and welfare. Central to this team is the FEI Veterinary Services Manager (VSM), a vital role responsible for coordinating veterinary services, preparing for emergencies and ensuring that appropriate veterinary care is available throughout an event.
What Does an FEI Veterinary Services Manager Do?
Appointed by the event's Organising Committee, the Veterinary Services Manager oversees the planning, organisation and delivery of veterinary services in accordance with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) Veterinary Regulations.
The VSM works closely with the FEI Veterinary Delegate, treating veterinarians, event organisers and other officials. While the Veterinary Delegate oversees regulatory compliance, the VSM coordinates the practical veterinary arrangements necessary to support horses throughout the competition.
Planning and Preparing for Competition
The VSM's responsibilities begin long before the first horse arrives. Preparations include ensuring appropriate veterinary staffing, treatment facilities, isolation stables, emergency equipment and referral arrangements are in place. For eventing competitions, particular attention must be given to cross-country veterinary coverage, horse ambulance access and emergency response procedures. Effective communication is equally important. Veterinary teams must be able to respond rapidly and coordinate with officials, stewards and event management when an incident occurs. By establishing robust veterinary protocols in advance, the VSM helps minimise risks and ensures that the event is prepared for a wide range of clinical situations.
Veterinary Leadership During the Event
Once competition begins, the VSM becomes a central point of coordination for veterinary operations. Responsibilities include overseeing veterinary coverage, ensuring emergency procedures can be implemented promptly, coordinating treating veterinarians and responding to emerging situations. The role demands clinical knowledge, organisational ability, sound judgement and effective communication, particularly during high-pressure situations. Above all, the welfare of the horse must remain the overriding priority.
Dr Michael Duggan: Experience in Veterinary Services Management
Dr Michael Duggan brings practical experience to the role of Veterinary Services Manager, having supported veterinary operations at major equestrian events across Ireland. His appointments include the Royal Balmoral Show and Millstreet International Horse Trials, including the 2024 Olympic qualifying competitions and the inaugural 2026 FEI U25 Eventing World Championships. Dr Duggan has also gained wider event veterinary experience at Tattersalls International Horse Trials and the Royal Dublin Horse Show, developing an understanding of the different veterinary requirements associated with international competition. These appointments demonstrate the importance of experienced veterinary leadership, particularly at events involving large numbers of horses, demanding competition schedules and complex veterinary logistics.
Why the VSM Role Matters
An effective Veterinary Services Manager does far more than coordinate veterinary treatment. The role combines clinical expertise, risk management, regulatory knowledge and leadership to create an environment where equine welfare remains paramount. For event organisers, appointing an experienced VSM is an essential investment in horse welfare, competitor confidence and the successful delivery of international equestrian sport.
