With extensive experience investigating and treating poor performance in equine athletes, Dr Laura Fitzharris is a specialist equine sports medicine and rehabilitation veterinarian offering expert services tailored to your horse’s specific needs. Consultations for veterinary surgeons, horse owners and trainers and other professionals are available. Based in the Sydney area, Laura not only provides in-person examinations in this region but also offers her expertise to clients further afield through telemedicine consultations.
Contact Dr Laura Fitzharris today to schedule your consultation and start your horse’s journey towards peak performance.
About Dr Laura Fitzharris
About Us
Dr. Laura Fitzharris is an internationally recognised veterinary surgeon specialising in Equine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. She holds RCVS, American, and European specialist qualifications and brings over a decade of expertise in diagnosing, treating, and rehabilitating equine athletes. Laura completed her residency training at the University of Bristol and subsequently gained experience at leading private referral hospitals, including the Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic.
A certified member of the International Society of Equine Locomotor Pathology, Laura offers advanced knowledge in orthopaedic disease, gait analysis, and diagnostic imaging. Her clinical interests focus on poor performance, cardiorespiratory disease, and orthopaedic rehabilitation, integrating cutting-edge research with practical expertise.
With a strong passion for research, Laura has published numerous peer-reviewed papers and presented her findings at international conferences. During her PhD, Laura not only developed the application of inspiratory muscle training in horses but also conducted research into the equine diaphragm, thereby advancing the understanding of respiratory performance in athletic horses.
Beyond her veterinary career, Laura is also a competitive water polo athlete and coach. Her firsthand knowledge of high-performance training provides a unique perspective in optimising the health and performance of equine athletes.
Veterinary Services
In-Person Veterinary Services
In addition to the data analysis and ECG analysis services the following second opinion and referral veterinary services are offered in the Sydney Area:
Orthopaedic Assessment
- Examination: Static, dynamic, and ridden
- Objective Gait Analysis – using the SLEIP® app.
- Ultrasound
Neurological Assessment
- Examination: Static, dynamic
Cardiac Evaluation
- Auscultation
- ECG analysis and interpretation
- Echocardiography
Respiratory Evaluation
- Auscultation & palpation
- Ultrasound
- Endoscopy* – resting and exercising
GI Evaluation
- Gastroscopy*
- Ultrasound
Performance Testing
- Ridden assessment
- Treadmill evaluation
- Combined with dynamic endoscopy*, ECG, and lactate testing as required.
Complementary Therapies
- Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
- Acupuncture
- Kinesiotaping
*Some services require the hire of equipment or collaboration with other industry professionals.
Telemedicine
Telemedicine Veterinary Services
Leveraging advanced technology, these services can be offered remotely:
ECG Analysis & Interpretation
- Assessment of traces recorded with the Televet®, Equimetre®, E-Trakka®, and other systems.
Objective Gait Analysis
- Assessment and interpretation of data recorded from a range of systems including the EquiGait®, Equinosis Lameness Locator®, SLEIP® and EquiSym®.
- Helping to identify and interpret locomotor patterns, supporting diagnosis and treatment planning.
Diagnostic Imaging Interpretation
- Analysis and assessment of radiographs, ultrasound, and scintigraphy images.
Endoscopy Interpretation
- Assessment of resting and dynamic (exercising) endoscopy recordings of the upper airway.
- Gastroscopy image analysis.
Laboratory Analysis
- Comprehensive review of blood profiles (haematology and biochemistry) for performance or health concerns; tracheal wash and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples and joint fluid analysis.
Bespoke Rehabilitation Plans
Dr. Fitzharris specialises in developing tailored orthopaedic rehabilitation plans for horses recovering from acute injury (such as tendonitis) or managing chronic conditions (such as back pain). Each plan is designed based on the horse’s unique needs, diagnosis, and performance goals, ensuring optimal recovery and long-term soundness. Service includes:
- Comprehensive assessment of the horse’s orthopaedic condition.
- Collaboration with trainers, farriers, and physiotherapists to create a multidisciplinary plan.
- Development of progressive exercise programs to support healing and performance.
- Regular monitoring and adjustments based on the horse’s progress, effectively planning the return to exercise.
Dr. Fitzharris’s expertise ensures a personalised, evidence-based approach to rehabilitation, giving your horse the best chance at a successful recovery and return to work.
Consultation
Specialist Consultation
A free 15-minute telephone consultation is available to new clients to discuss your needs and tailor the services available to you. Get in contact with us below to arrange a suitable time with specialist equine sports medicine and rehabilitation veterinarian Dr. Laura Fitzharris.