A message form the heart... (part 2)

On the first of April, I was shown a news report that felt anything but a joke. On the contrary — it felt like a harsh confrontation with the fact that, even in 2026, the responsibilities that come with veterinary medicine are still not always taken seriously.

NVWA-IOD arrests veterinarian and equine dental practitioners

According to a report by the NVWA-IOD — the Intelligence and Investigation Service of the Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority, a specialised department that investigates serious offences — a veterinarian and three equine dental practitioners were arrested on Thursday, 26 March.

The veterinarian is suspected of having supplied sedatives to the equine dental practitioners, who allegedly used them during dental procedures on horses. Such acts — both the administration of sedation and the performance of certain dental procedures — are legally reserved for veterinarians. Violating these rules is therefore not only unethical, but also punishable by law. (To read the article click on the linkNVWA-IOD houdt dierenarts en gebitsverzorger )

Trust is good, understanding is better

With this message, we certainly do not wish to tar all non-veterinarians within the equine sector with the same brush. What we do want is to raise awareness among horse owners: awareness of how important it is to think critically about whom you entrust with the care of your horse.

A positive experience from someone at the barn does not automatically mean that the same approach is correct or safe. Trust should never be blind. Ask questions. Observe. Think about how your horse is being treated — especially in dentistry, where precision and knowledge are essential.

What should you pay attention to during a dental check-up?

Sedation is not a luxury, but a necessity

The first priority is always safety: your own, your horse’s, and that of the treating veterinarian. Horses are flight animals. A dental treatment is not a neutral experience for them, but often a stressful and threatening situation. We cannot explain to them what is happening, nor why they must stand still.

In addition, the anatomy of the equine tooth is complex and at the same time vulnerable. The dentine — which protects the underlying structures — is particularly sensitive. Careless or overly aggressive floating can cause irreversible damage, resulting in pain and complications.

A calm, controlled environment is therefore crucial. Sedation helps keep the horse as still as possible, allowing precise and safe work to be carried out.

And at least as important: sedation may only be administered by a veterinarian. Only veterinarians have the necessary training to properly assess the risks. If an unauthorised person administers sedation and something goes wrong, you are also left completely exposed from both a legal and insurance perspective.

Making a diagnosis is more than “just having a look”

A correct diagnosis starts with optimal visibility. That may seem obvious, but in practice it is still too often underestimated.

Has the mouth been thoroughly rinsed so that food debris does not obstruct the view?
Is a mirror or camera being used?
Is there sufficient lighting?

It sounds simple, but without these basic conditions, a thorough evaluation is impossible. No one would trust a human dentist who works blindfolded — so why would we accept that for our horses?

Videos regularly circulate on social media showing dental procedures being performed while the practitioner has hardly any view inside the mouth and is even looking at the outside of the head. Imagine a dentist moving a drill towards your mouth without looking… Running away would be your first reflex.

Record keeping: the key to sustainable care

Many dental problems develop slowly. That is precisely why it is essential to monitor the evolution of the dentition carefully.

Detailed record keeping makes it possible to detect changes in time and, where necessary, intervene preventively. This not only helps prevent larger problems, but also reduces the need for invasive treatments.

Prevention is, and remains, the highest goal of every good clinician. It may produce less spectacular images than a drastic “before and after”, but in the long term it makes a world of difference to the horse’s welfare.

Finally

Here as well, just like in part 1 of this heartfelt message: don’t be dazzled by spectacular images or quick results. Real dentistry is rarely sensational—but always thoughtful, careful, and in the best interest of the animal.
Because behind every treatment, there shouldn’t be a “wow”… but a horse that can eat, move, and live comfortably.

FAQ

Why is sedation important in equine dentistry?
Sedation ensures calm, safety and precision during the treatment. It may only be administered by a veterinarian.

Can an equine dental practitioner perform everything independently?
No. Sedation, making a diagnosis and certain dental procedures are legally reserved for veterinarians. (Click here to read more) 

Why is record keeping important?
Because dental problems often develop slowly. Clear records help detect changes in time and allow for preventive action.