Terms & conditions 1. Introduction These Terms and Conditions apply to all veterinary services provided by EB Equine, including chiropractic treatment, acupuncture, lameness investigations, joint injections, and related diagnostic or therapeutic procedures. By booking or consenting to treatment, the Client (“owner” or “keeper”) confirms acceptance of these Terms. All services are provided by a qualified veterinary surgeon and are delivered in accordance with UK veterinary standards. EB Equine works alongside, not in replacement of, the horse’s primary veterinary care where applicable. 2. Scope of Services EB Equine provides veterinary assessment and treatment including: Equine chiropractic diagnosis and manual therapy Veterinary acupuncture Lameness investigations and performance assessment Intra-articular (joint) injections and systemic treatment where clinically indicated Rehabilitation and follow-up care planning All treatments are performed only where clinically appropriate and in the best interests of the horse. 3. Clinical Assessment and Consent A full clinical assessment will be performed prior to any treatment. This may include: History taking Static examination Dynamic (movement) assessment Ridden evaluation (if appropriate and safe) Diagnostic testing where required Treatment will only proceed with informed consent from the Client and where it is considered safe and clinically appropriate. 4. Risks of Treatment Modalities The Client acknowledges that all veterinary interventions carry inherent risks. These are outlined below: 4.1 Chiropractic Treatment Chiropractic manipulation involves manual mobilisation of joints, muscles, and soft tissue structures. Potential risks include: Temporary stiffness or soreness following treatment Muscle spasm or transient discomfort Exacerbation of underlying musculoskeletal conditions Rare risk of soft tissue injury or aggravation of joint pathology Behavioural reactions including bucking or resistance during manipulation Chiropractic treatment will not be performed if the horse is unsafe, overly reactive, or the environment is unsuitable. 4.2 Veterinary Acupuncture Acupuncture involves insertion of fine sterile needles into specific anatomical points. Potential risks include: Mild transient discomfort at needle insertion sites which may result in bucking Temporary muscle twitching or behavioural reaction Localised bleeding or bruising (rare and typically minor) Infection (extremely rare with sterile technique) Needle breakage (very rare; fragments are usually retrievable) Exacerbation of discomfort if the horse moves during treatment Certain acupuncture points are contraindicated in pregnancy and will not be used in pregnant mares. 4.3 Joint Injections (Intra-Articular Therapy) Joint injections involve sterile administration of medication directly into a synovial joint. Potential risks include: Temporary post-injection lameness or increased soreness (“post-injection flare”) Laminitis Joint infection (septic arthritis) — rare but serious and may require emergency treatment Soft tissue irritation or local swelling Allergic reaction to injected substances (rare) Failure to respond to treatment or recurrence of clinical signs Strict aseptic technique is used at all times; however, no invasive procedure is entirely without risk. 5. Post-Treatment Effects The Client understands that: Horses may be mildly stiff or sore for up to 72 hours after treatment Rest or modified work may be recommended depending on findings Any unexpected deterioration must be reported immediately 6. Veterinary Responsibility & Emergencies EB Equine provides veterinary care but does not replace emergency services outside scheduled availability. The Client agrees to: Contact EB Equine or their own veterinary practice immediately if adverse signs occur Seek emergency veterinary care where necessary Understand that prompt intervention may be critical in rare complications (particularly post-injection infection or acute lameness deterioration) 7. Client Responsibilities The Client agrees to: Provide accurate and complete medical history Disclose all current medications, previous injuries, and treatments Ensure safe handling facilities and appropriate restraint Follow post-treatment instructions Monitor the horse after treatment and report concerns promptly 8. Payment Terms Fees are confirmed at the time of booking or listed on www.ebequine.org An invoice will be issued following treatment Payment is due within 5 days of invoice date Late payment may result in pre-payment being required for future appointments Additional charges (e.g. sedation, insurance paperwork) will be agreed in advance 9. Insurance Where applicable, treatment may be claimed through equine insurance. The Client is responsible for: Confirming policy coverage Managing claims directly with their insurer Ensuring documentation is requested during or immediately after consultation 10. Cancellation Policy Due to clinical scheduling and travel commitments, the following applies: More than 14 days’ notice: No charge Within 14 days (non-emergency): May require pre-payment before rebooking Within 2 working days: 50% fee On the day of appointment: 100% fee No cancellation charge applies if the appointment is successfully filled by another horse at the same or nearby location. 11. Limitation of Liability EB Equine provides veterinary services in accordance with professional standards and clinical judgment. However: No guarantee is given regarding treatment outcomes The Client accepts that all procedures carry inherent clinical risk EB Equine is not liable for complications arising from undisclosed medical history, environmental factors, or failure to follow post-treatment advice Nothing in these Terms excludes liability for negligence resulting in death or personal injury where legally applicable. 12. Data Protection All personal and animal data is handled in accordance with UK GDPR regulations. Information will not be shared without consent unless required for: Veterinary continuity of care Legal obligations Animal welfare concerns 13. Acceptance of Terms By booking or consenting to treatment with EB Equine, the Client confirms that they have read, understood, and accepted these Terms and Conditions, including the associated treatment risks.