About me, Jemma Copas the Horse Dentist..
I have been around horses all of my life and started riding at the age of 4. I have successfully produced and competed my horses, in particular I enjoy showing and dressage.
I currently own 2 ex-racehorses. My 5 yr old mare is currently in foal to a top KWPN SJ sire ‘Silvester’, and my gelding is my current rehabilitation project. I am hoping to compete in the ROR classes in 2010 with the aim being HOYS.
I hold a BSc(hons) degree in Equine Science and my BHSAI. This has given me a very strong anatomical and physiological background. I have studied the disorders of the teeth and dental care for horses, anatomy of the head, physiology of the digestion, the influence of the chewing apparatus on the digestion and so forth.
I am a graduate of the American School of Equine Dentistry. I am also a member of the IAED (International Association of Equine Dentists).
I do continue my personal development by keeping up to date with the latest procedures, attend conferences, courses and work with other EDT’s.
The training of the dental technician that does not have a science degree is very varied.
You should be most cautious with people who call themselves experienced “professionals”. These people often just file away in the horse’s mouth without the least bit of theoretical background in anatomy, physiology or possible pathological conditions of the mouth of the horse.
Many horse owners have never been in touch with an equine dental technician. This can make it difficult to make a well-founded choice. There are, however, a number of guidelines that can help: friendliness, smooth handling and being good with horses, alongside a sound dental knowledge. In addition to providing dental treatment for your horse, I also run educational clinics to asssit individuals and clubs.
A thorough dental examination is a first requisite. What can’t be diagnosed can’t be treated. You should be able to expect an overview of actual disorders and what is proposed for treatment. Any dental technician can give you a final estimate of any necessary treatment after the examination.
Most disorders are possible to feel or see in your horse’s mouth with the guidance of the dental technician. If feeling can be repeated after treatment has been carried out, this ensures trust between the dental technician and you.
A dental record of your horse with the defects and treatment carried out allows you to monitor the development of your horse’s set of teeth.
Every horse I treat receives a detailed dental record chart.
All my work is FULLY INSURED
