Did you know that The Dick Vet Farm Animal Hospital Building has roots stretching back to 1823? It began with William Dick, a man of vision. He established the first veterinary college in Scotland.
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, or Dick Vet as it’s fondly known, is now part of the University of Edinburgh. The Dick Vet has earned itself quite a reputation. It is known for research, teaching, and clinical services.
Originally called the Highland Society’s Veterinary School, The Dick Vet started small. William Dick was a former student of anatomist John Barclay. The first classes began in November 1823. Student fees and a grant from the Highland Society financed it. William’s sister, Mary Dick, played a crucial role in the school’s administration.
In 1833, William Dick paid for a purpose-built accommodation on Clyde Street. This served as the school’s base until 1916. In 1839, his school became a college. William Dick became a professor. By his death in 1866, he had taught over 2000 students. These students established veterinary schools worldwide.
Following a crisis in 1873, it was officially named Dick’s Veterinary College. This was after a rival college was set up by William Williams. In 1916, The Dick Vet moved to Summerhall. In 1951, it was renamed The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies. It then became part of the University of Edinburgh.
In 2011, The Dick Vet moved to the Easter Bush campus. This brought all veterinary facilities together. The Easter Bush Veterinary Campus is now a hub of veterinary excellence.
The William Dick Building on the Easter Bush Campus opened in September 2011. Princess Anne inaugurated it. It provides facilities for veterinary teaching. This includes clinical skills labs and lecture theaters.
The Dick Vet Farm Animal Hospital Building also includes a first opinion Farm Animal Practice. It supports teaching and research. It helps develop clinical expertise. The Farm Animal Practice provides veterinary services to local farmers. These farmers are mostly in Midlothian and East Lothian.
Clinical work focuses on beef cattle but also includes dairy cattle and sheep. The practice also caters to other small ruminants and pigs. The Farm Animal Hospital receives cases from both the Farm Animal Practice and external vets. This primarily serves to teach undergraduate veterinary students.
The Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies is consistently highly ranked. It gains consistent high rankings from The Times Higher and The Guardian newspaper. It is accredited by several veterinary associations. These include the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons and the American Veterinary Medical Association.
So, as you stand before The Dick Vet Farm Animal Hospital Building, remember its rich history. Think of William Dick’s vision. Consider the countless animals that have received care here. This institution has shaped veterinary medicine for centuries. It will continue to do so for years to come.