About the Federation
Purpose, not profit: advancing standards worldwide
As a not-for-profit industry membership body, our mission is driven by a meaningful cause: advancing equine intimate health through education, advocacy and the development of professional standards.
Our Formation
The Equine Intimate Health Federation was founded in 2023 and exists to raise standards, awareness, and professionalism within the field of equine intimate health. We are committed to delivering:
- Evidence-informed education
- Ethical practice
- Practical, welfare-led training
Our Approach
Our approach is built on a combination of hands-on industry experience and continued professional development at the highest level. This includes advanced CPD training and specialist learning with leading experts in equine veterinary science, including Professor Derek Knottenbelt and the Royal Veterinary College, University of London. This ensures our knowledge remains current, relevant, and aligned with best practice. We actively create a supportive and non-discriminatory membership body with full inclusivity regardless of location.
Our Mission
To improve equine welfare by:
- Increasing understanding of intimate health in horses
- Supporting structured, accredited training pathways
- Supporting professionals to work safely, ethically, and competently
- Promoting early identification of potential abnormalities, always advising veterinary referral and never diagnosis
Our Standards
We hold ourselves and our training to a high standard, ensuring:
- All content is grounded in current, evidence-informed practice
- Clear boundaries are maintained between professional roles and veterinary care
- Practitioners are equipped with both knowledge and practical competence
- Ongoing CPD is required as a core part of professional responsibility
Our Commitment to Professional Development
We actively invest in continued learning to ensure our training reflects the latest advancements in equine health and welfare. This includes:
- Specialist CPD with recognised veterinary professionals
- Advanced training in equine pathology, oncology, and dermatology
- Ongoing research and industry engagement
- Practical application of learning within real-world equine settings
Who We Support
We support:
- Equine professionals seeking to expand their services
- Practitioners working towards professional recognition in this specialist field
Welfare first, always
Safe practice is the core of our trust
Every member works strictly within the boundaries of the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966. Our role is hygiene and care, never diagnosis.
Strict legal compliance
We comply strictly with the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966, working only within our professional scope of practice.
We refer, we never risk
If we are ever unsure, or suspect a potential abnormality, we advise the owner to seek a veterinary referral.
We never diagnose
Members do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. All clinical decisions rest with a qualified vet.
Find trusted, accountable professionals
We require every member to confirm their insurance and evidence their accredited training and experience, and we support their ongoing CPD and network.