There are a number of veterinary personnel present on the racecourse every raceday, these personnel fit into three broad categories.

(1)  Veterinary Officers

There is at least one British Horseracing Authority (BHA) Veterinary Officers on duty at every race meeting. One of the Veterinary Officers’ key responsibilities is overseeing horse welfare and ensuring that the standards laid down by BHA are maintained. Veterinary Officers monitor all horses on the racecourse, including in the stable area and parade ring prior to racing and as they return from the course post-race.

(2)  Racecourse Veterinary Surgeons

All racecourses appoint specialist equine veterinary surgeons (Racecourse Veterinary Surgeons) who attend each race meeting to provide immediate first aid and veterinary treatment to any horse.

(3)  Horse ambulance personnel

A horse ambulance is available on site to ensure prompt and safe transport of an injured horse to either the on-course veterinary treatment facilities or a near-by equine referral centre.