Alison Talbot – Board Certified Specialist in Equine Sports Medicine
BVM&S, CertEP, CertES(Orth), Dip ACVSMR, FHEA, MRCVS
In the world of equine health, few professionals have shaped the intersection of orthopaedics, diagnostic imaging, and sports medicine as profoundly as Dr. Alison Talbot.
Known for her deep clinical expertise, rigorous academic contributions, and respected presence at major equestrian competitions, Dr. Alison Talbot has built a career defined by excellence, precision, and unwavering dedication to the performance and wellbeing of horses.
Today, she stands as a Senior Lecturer in Equine Orthopaedics at the University of Liverpool, a role that places her at the forefront of veterinary education and advanced clinical work in the United Kingdom. But her journey to becoming a respected specialist and influential educator began long before she joined the university’s equine hospital.
From Edinburgh Graduate to Emerging Specialist
Dr. Alison Talbot earned her veterinary degree from the University of Edinburgh in 1999, stepping into the profession with a strong interest in equine practice. Shortly after qualifying, she completed a highly sought-after equine internship at the Animal Health Trust in Newmarket.
This formative year exposed her to a diverse caseload and set the foundation for the advanced training that would follow.
Her early work in large animal practice allowed her to refine her clinical instincts and build the practical experience that is essential in high-level equine care. During this period, she completed the RCVS Certificate in Equine Practice, demonstrating both her ambition and her commitment to continuous professional development.
Advanced Training in Diagnostic Imaging and Orthopaedics
Dr. Alison Talbot’s passion for understanding the intricacies of musculoskeletal disease led her to embark on a three-year residency in Equine Diagnostic Imaging at the University of Bristol. There, she developed an in-depth understanding of advanced imaging modalities, biomechanics, and the complexities of equine lameness.
Her residency also gave her the opportunity to obtain the RCVS Certificate in Equine Orthopaedics, further solidifying her trajectory toward specialization. These years of structured training would become the backbone of her later work, shaping her into one of the UK’s most respected veterinary educators in orthopaedics and imaging.
A Career Built on Education, Research, and Clinical Excellence
Dr. Alison Talbot joined the University of Liverpool in 2009 as a Clinician Teacher in Equine Orthopaedics. She later progressed to Lecturer and then Senior Lecturer, reflecting both her leadership and her significant contributions to the equine hospital’s clinical and teaching programs.
In her current role, she balances advanced clinical work with the training of veterinary undergraduates and residents. Her clinical focus centers on lameness investigation, performance-limiting conditions, and the use of advanced imaging techniques to diagnose complex musculoskeletal problems.
Students and colleagues frequently note her ability to distill complex concepts with clarity, a testament to her skill as both a clinician and a teacher.
Sports Medicine Credentials and International Recognition
In 2016, Dr. Alison Talbot achieved one of the most rigorous qualifications in her field: the Diploma of the American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation (Equine). This distinction places her among a select cohort of veterinarians worldwide with advanced credentials in equine sports medicine.
She is also an RCVS Recognised Specialist in Equine Medicine (Sports Medicine), an honor that reflects not only her qualifications but also her sustained contributions to the discipline.
Her expertise is sought well beyond the university setting. Dr. Alison Talbotserves as a permitted treating veterinarian and Official Veterinarian for the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), working regularly at international showjumping and dressage competitions.
She is also part of the veterinary team at esteemed national events, including the Horse of the Year Show and the British Open Showjumping Championship. Her presence at these competitions underscores the trust placed in her clinical judgment and her deep knowledge of equine athletic performance.
A Life Centered Around Horses Professionally and Personally
Despite her demanding professional commitments, Dr. Alison Talbotmaintains her own connection to horses outside the clinic. A passionate rider, she regularly competes with her own horse in eventing, giving her unique insight into the needs, challenges, and athletic demands faced by both horses and riders.
This personal experience enriches her clinical work and further strengthens her bond with the equestrian community.
Dr. Alison Talbot: A Lasting Impact on Equine Veterinary Medicine
From her early days as a veterinary student to her current role as a senior academic and internationally recognized sports medicine specialist, Dr. Alison Talbot has built a career defined by expertise, integrity, and a genuine commitment to equine welfare.
Her contributions to veterinary education, orthopaedic practice, and sports medicine continue to shape the next generation of veterinarians and support the health and performance of horses at every level.
In every arena, clinical, academic, and competitive, Dr. Alison Talbot remains a respected leader whose work strengthens the entire field of equine veterinary medicine.
Dr. Alison Talbot is a faculty speaker in the Equine Lameness Program. If you wish to elevate your lameness diagnostic skills and learn directly from her, Dr. James Bailey and Philippe Benoit, make sure to explore the Equine Lameness Program. This the most comprehensive, case-based training pathway designed to help veterinarians make a measurable difference to the horses in their care.