Display explores human-horse parallels

The ancient connection between horses and humans is the focus of a travelling exhibit that’s now on public display in the Western College of Veterinary Medicine’s library until Thursday, May 3.

Developed by the United States National Library of Medicine, “The Horse, A Mirror of Man: Parallels in Early Human and Horse Medicine” explores the history of equine veterinary medicine and its close links to human medicine.

As the exhibit illustrates, Medieval and Renaissance theories about equine physiology and health often mirrored theories about humans, and the literature of both was inherently linked.

Physicians and veterinarians alike used bloodletting, astrology and ancient texts to heal their patients while many discoveries — including the circulation of blood — were developed in tandem between the two professions.

Through a special arrangement with the U.S. National Library of Medicine, the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) is loaning the exhibit to veterinary medical libraries across North America.