Dr Neil Townsend
MSc BVSc Cert ES (Soft Tissue) DipECVS DipEVDC (Equine) MRCVS
Dr. Neil Townsend is a distinguished equine veterinary surgeon and dental specialist with over 20 years of experience in equine healthcare. Originally from Ballyclare, Northern Ireland, Dr. Townsend graduated from the University of Bristol in 2004.
After a brief period in mixed practice, he pursued his passion for equine medicine, beginning with an equine internship at Liverpool University, followed by a surgical residency at the University of Edinburgh.
His exceptional skills and dedication earned him European Diplomas in both Equine Surgery and Veterinary Dentistry – making him one of the few professionals worldwide to hold this dual distinction.
Dr. Townsend’s career spans both academia and private practice. During his tenure at Liverpool University, he established an advanced dentistry service, incorporating cutting-edge techniques such as standing CT for equine patients.
In 2015, he transitioned to private practice, where he continued to offer in-house and peripatetic advanced dentistry and surgical services. In 2023, Dr. Neil Townsend launched his independent consultancy, providing specialized equine dental and surgical care across the UK.
Renowned for his expertise in minimally invasive techniques, Dr. Townsend’s clinical interests include laparoscopy, colic surgery, upper respiratory tract surgery, and advanced equine dental procedures.
The University of Bristol and Edinburgh graduate has lectured extensively at national and international conferences, sharing his insights with veterinarians and students alike.
Beyond his clinical and academic contributions, Dr. Neil Townsend is an active member of the equine veterinary community. He serves as a Trustee of the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) and became a Fellow of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) in 2023.
When not working, Dr. Neil Townsend enjoys spending time with his young family and exploring the outdoors. A passionate rugby enthusiast, the Northern Irishman supports Ulster and Worcester teams, though his playing days are behind him.
Dr. Neil Townsend’s journey in equine veterinary medicine is a remarkable example of dedication, innovation, and compassion. With over two decades of experience, he has become one of the few professionals globally to achieve dual European Diplomas in Equine Surgery and Veterinary Dentistry.
Recently, Dr. Townsend shared invaluable insights from his career, touching on his philosophy, memorable cases, and lessons learned along the way.
What Every Veterinarian Should Know About Equine Dentistry
When asked to share his top advice for equine veterinarians, Dr. Townsend highlighted three essential lessons:
Sharp Enamel Points Aren’t Pathology
Dr. Townsend explained that sharp enamel points are a natural part of equine physiology, not inherently pathological. “The only reason we address them is because we’ve domesticated the horse,” he noted.
Understanding this distinction is crucial for veterinarians to make informed decisions about treatment.
Counting Teeth is Simpler Than You Think
One of the practical tips Dr. Neil Townsend offered was a foolproof method for counting a horse’s cheek teeth using your fingers. “You’ve got five fingers, and with one hand you can palpate the interdental spaces while counting to five,” he explained.
This simple technique helps ensure thorough and accurate examinations.
The Importance of a Full Oral Exam
Dr. Townsend stressed the significance of a comprehensive oral cavity examination. “You wouldn’t skip examining any other part of the horse, so why not the oral cavity?” he asked.
Identifying issues early through detailed exams can save owners both money and heartache, while improving outcomes for the horse.
From Competitive Riding to Advancing Dentistry
Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Neil Townsend revealed a lesser-known fact about his early life: he once competed at the international pony level in equestrian sports. His hands-on experience with horses from a young age laid the foundation for his deep understanding of equine care.
Dr. Neil Townsend’s Reflections on Progress in Dentistry
When reflecting on his career, Dr. Townsend expressed regret about some of the outdated dental techniques used in the past. “I was part of the tail end of an era where dental repulsions were performed under general anesthesia,” he admitted.
He recalled how these procedures were far more invasive compared to the minimally invasive methods used today. “I look back and feel ashamed that horses had to endure that, but it highlights how far we’ve come as a profession,” he added.
Adventure Over Sunshine
When asked about his ideal holiday, Dr. Townsend chose an adventure holiday over a tropical island escape. “With my Northern Irish skin, if I’m in the sun for more than five minutes, I turn into a beetroot,” he joked. His preference reflects his dynamic personality and love for exploration.
A Memorable and Challenging Case For Dr. Neil Townsend
Dr. Townsend recounted a particularly challenging dental case involving a charity pony with a three-year history of nasal discharge. Initially misdiagnosed as sinusitis, the pony was later found to have pulpitis in one of its cheek teeth.
The tooth’s removal proved difficult, resulting in complications that led to a nasal fistula. “We eventually got it healed, and the pony lived another five years before passing due to an unrelated issue,” he shared.
While bittersweet, the case underscores the complexity of equine dentistry and the resilience of horses.
For Dr. Townsend, equine dentistry is as much about the horse’s well-being as it is about advancing veterinary science. His passion lies in continuously refining techniques to provide better care. “The field has evolved so much, and it’s rewarding to be part of that progress,” he said.
Dr. Neil Townsend’s career exemplifies the intersection of skill, compassion, and a commitment to advancing equine healthcare.
From pioneering minimally invasive techniques to mentoring veterinarians worldwide, his contributions have reshaped the field of equine dentistry and surgery.
With a dedication to education, innovation, and the well-being of horses, Dr. Neil Townsend inspires the veterinary community to continually push boundaries and elevate standards of care.
His journey serves as a reminder that even the most challenging cases can lead to growth and meaningful impact.