Dr. Safia Barakzai – Global Authority in Equine Soft Tissue Surgery
BVSc MSc DESTS Dipl. ECVS FRCVS
In the world of equine surgery, few names command the respect and admiration that Dr. Safia Barakzai does. A globally recognised authority in equine soft tissue surgery, Dr. Barakzai has dedicated over two decades to advancing the diagnosis and treatment of upper respiratory and dental disorders in horses, blending academic excellence with surgical mastery.
With a reputation built on precision, innovation, and relentless pursuit of better outcomes for both horse and practitioner, Dr. Safia Barakzai is not only a trusted surgeon but an influential voice in the veterinary community.
From Academia to Entrepreneurial Specialist
Dr. Safia Barakzai graduated from the University of Bristol in 1998 with a degree in Veterinary Medicine. Her career quickly ascended when she undertook a residency in equine surgery at the University of Edinburgh, where she completed a Master’s degree and began her long association with equine surgical advancement.
She remained at Edinburgh for nearly a decade, progressing from lecturer to senior lecturer, managing complex surgical cases and mentoring the next generation of equine specialists.
In 2012, she left academia to apply her skills in the fast-paced world of private veterinary practice across the UK and Ireland. But it was in 2017 that Dr. Safia Barakzai took a transformative step: she founded Equine Surgical Referrals, a peripatetic mobile consultancy providing specialist surgical services directly to veterinary practices.
Based in the UK, Her mobile practice now travels nationally and internationally, bringing advanced surgical care and overground endoscopy directly to equine patients and their vets, making it easier for practitioners to access a flexible online CPD for equine vets without leaving their clinic.
A Pioneer in Equine Soft Tissue and Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr. Safia Barakzai’s name is synonymous with surgical excellence, particularly in the treatment of upper respiratory tract disorders, often referred to as “wind” issues in horses. Her expertise also spans sinus and dental surgery, and she is a strong advocate for minimally invasive techniques that enhance recovery and reduce complications.
Her qualifications underscore her authority: she holds the Diploma of the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS), the Diploma and Certificate in Equine Soft Tissue Surgery from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS), and was awarded Fellowship of the RCVS in 2017, one of the profession’s highest honours.
She was also an associate member of the European College of Veterinary Diagnostic Imaging (ECVDI), reflecting her commitment to integrating advanced imaging with surgical intervention.
An International Voice in Veterinary Education and Research
Beyond the operating room, Dr. Safia Barakzai is a prolific researcher and passionate educator. She has authored over 90 peer-reviewed scientific papers, contributed to numerous textbook chapters, and written two textbooks on equine surgery. Her research continues to influence best practices in veterinary hospitals around the world.
Her leadership extends to her role on the Editorial Consultants Board for the Equine Veterinary Journal, and formerly, the Editorial Review Board for Veterinary Surgery. Her clinical insights and research make her a sought-after speaker at prestigious veterinary conferences such as BEVA Congress, where she regularly delivers sessions and chairs discussions on surgical innovation and imaging.
Leadership Through Experience
Dr. Safia Barakzai’s career journey hasn’t just been about clinical milestones; it’s also a testament to resilience and entrepreneurship. Her decision to launch her own consultancy came after a pivotal moment in her career, driven by a desire for ethical alignment and professional freedom.
That leap of faith has since become a blueprint for many veterinary professionals considering independent practice. She openly shares the challenges and rewards of building a veterinary business, advocating for better access to small business education within the profession.
Her story is a powerful example of turning adversity into opportunity and reminds her peers that fear of failure should never eclipse the potential for success.
Why Dr. Safia Barakzai Matters
Dr. Safia Barakzai is much more than a leading equine surgeon, she is a changemaker in veterinary medicine. Through her clinical work, academic contributions, and mentorship, she has influenced both patient outcomes and professional standards. Her commitment to evidence-based care, surgical precision, and ethical practice sets her apart as a trusted authority in the field.
Whether performing complex sinus surgeries, mentoring future specialists, or championing innovation in veterinary practice, Dr. Safia Barakzai continues to elevate the standards of equine care worldwide.
For practices seeking world-class expertise in equine surgery, or for professionals looking for inspiration from one of the most accomplished voices in the field, Dr. Safia Barakzai stands as a true leader, uncompromising in quality, unwavering in purpose, and undeniably influential.
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