McIlwraith sees equine world topside and Down Under.

Dr. C. Wayne McIlwraith, the new AAEP president, outlines his mission to fulfill the AAEP’s strategic goals which encompass equine education, development of future practitioners and continuous learning. As a leading figure in equine arthroscopic surgery, McIlwraith brings international perspectives to the organization, recognizing the challenges in recruiting young veterinarians in the field worldwide. Other issues discussed in this paper include preserving the use of antimicrobials, critically embracing alternative therapies, forming a task force on equine dentistry and setting guidelines for equine-specific situations for the AVMA. Finally, McIlwraith highlights the AAEP’s intent to develop a unified stance on equine therapeutic medications and stresses the importance of outreach and education.

The Role of the AAEP President

• As the new president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), Dr. C. Wayne McIlwraith’s role is to guide and implement the organization’s long-term strategic plan.
• The AAEP’s commitments are focused on continuing equine education, horse-owner education, and the development of future veterinary practitioners.

International Equine Veterinary Practice

• McIlwraith’s work as an equine arthroscopic surgeon often takes him abroad, especially to England and France, providing him with a broad international perspective on equine veterinary care. This perspective is beneficial to the AAEP, given its diverse membership from multiple countries.
• One of the key global challenges in the field is the recruitment of younger veterinarians into equine practice, a problem McIlwraith is given due emphasis in his leadership role.

Issues of Antimicrobials and Alternative Therapies

• Preserving the ability to use antimicrobials in equine practice is a critical subject addressed by McIlwraith. In response to this, the AAEP has formed a task force to develop equine-specific guidelines for their use.
• Furthermore, McIlwraith notes the importance of allowing for a wide range of treatment options to include different therapeutic approaches, such as alternative and complementary therapies.

Equine Dentistry and Guidelines for AVMA

• McIlwraith plans to create a task force to address the topic of equine dentistry, a divisive subject within the organization.
• The AAEP aims to offer their collective expertise on equine-specific issues to not only horse owners but also AVMA and seeks more consultation for equine situations from the AVMA.

Medications in Equine Practice

• The AAEP is promoting unity in racehorse medication guidelines, advocating for standardization across various state racing commissions.
• The organization is also preparing to develop a position statement regarding the medication of pleasure/performance horses, with plans for a broad membership survey to gather insights and input.

Continuing Education and Future Plans

• Emphasis on continuing education remains a top priority for the AAEP, with McIlwraith actively encouraging diverse and international perspectives.
• McIlwraith’s vision for the AAEP is one of reciprocal licensing and more open access to equine veterinary practice around the globe, reflecting the interconnectedness of the world today.