I am delighted to have a special guest joining me on the show today as we wrap upfor 2023!Dr. Lizzie McCready is an expert in equine veterinary medicine, having worked in bustling referral hospitals and as an ambulatory vet in the UK and Australia. Her passion lies in handling emergencies, with colic and various medical crises constituting her daily round-the-clock responsibilities. Dr. Lizzie has dedicated herself to educating horse owners about effectively managing emergencies. Stay tuned to learn from the insights, knowledge, and veterinary experience she has accumulated over the last ten years. Mindset and Making Informed Decisions  Mindset is crucial- especially when dealing with emergencies. Dr. Lizzie also underscores the need for horse owners to be well-informed and proactive because their quick and informed actions can positively impact their horse before the veterinarian arrives. Clear Communication  Clear and effective communication between horse owners and veterinarians is essential because it helps owners understand the veterinary advice and feel confident in asking questions. The Importance of Trust Trust is crucial for an owner's relationship with their horse and for collaborating with veterinary professionals.Energy Exchange Between Horse and OwnerHorses can sense emotions. So they feel everything their owners are feeling. If thereis an emotional connection between a horse and its owner during times of crisis, it helps the horse maintain positive energy and trust in the healing process. Leadership Leadership is essential for handling horses, particularly in stressful situations like vet visits. Dr. Lizzie emphasizes the need for owners to stay grounded and calm as horses look for emotional leadership. When horse owners are rushing or panicking, it can increase their horse’s stress, making difficult situations even more challenging.Pressure and Stress LevelsHorse owners often feel pressured to resolve their horse’s issues instantly. Dr. Lizzie explains that chronic pressure and stress will only hinder the healing process. She points out that owners who remain calm and confident during emergencies will positively influence their horse's response.Training and MentoringFoundational training, continuous learning, and being open to new information are all crucial for veterinary practitioners and horse owners because they face a constant learning curve. Dr. Lizzie highlights the value of having mentors in the veterinary field and encourages horse owners to find mentors who inspire them. Guilt and Shame in OwnersLizzie shines a light on the guilt and shame often experienced by horse owners, especially when dealing with long-standing issues. She advises owners to let go of their guilt, focusing instead on the present and the future. EmergencyPreparednessThe three-step framework for emergency preparedness:AssessCommunicateTreatLizzie emphasizes the value of having a systematic approach to emergencies. She highlights the importance of proactive prevention rather than reactive responses.Intention, Mindset, and Perspective in Assessing InjuriesHorse owners will benefit from setting positive intentions and maintaining a proactive mindset when assessing their horses’ injuries. Dr. Lizzie encourages owners to retain their perspective and asses the entire situation rather than fixating on the most visible issues. She stresses the need for thorough assessments and a routine and structure for managing horse’s health.Continuous Learning and...