Guildford UK – October 2021 – HRH The Princess Royal visited Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging earlier this month to recognize their 2021 Queen’s Award for Innovation. Based in Bridge Park in Guildford, Hallmarq is a world leader in providing advanced veterinary imaging systems and was awarded this prestigious accolade earlier this year for their 1.5T small animal MRI scanner. Princess Anne toured the factory and offices, meeting staff from all departments, as well as The Deputy Lieutenant of Surrey, Mr Tim Wates, the Deputy Lord Mayor, Councillor Dennis Booth and a guest representative from the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, President Dr Kate Richards.
Hallmarq CEO Mick Crosthwaite says, “It was an honour for our team to welcome HRH The Princess Royal and show her around our Head Office in Guildford. Hallmarq has been at the forefront of developing innovative diagnostic systems for veterinary practices over the last 20 years. Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and this award is well deserved recognition for the team’s passion and hard work in pursuit of our goal of improving the lives of animals and the people that care for them.”
Hallmarq’s small animal MRI is the only 1.5T high-field scanner designed specifically for veterinary use to help address the challenges of imaging small animals of all breeds and sizes. The unique design incorporates an innovative 1-meter-long V-shaped spine coil which boosts image quality compared with the flat spine coils which are used in human machines. In-built safety features reduce the cost and complexity of installation.
Expanding on the impact of this innovation, Steve explains, “Our machine requires no external radiofrequency shielding, making it more accessible to an increasing number of first opinion veterinary practices, emergency centres and referral centres. This has significant benefits for pet health and welfare, as improved diagnostic ability leads to more targeted treatments and better patient outcomes.”
These advantages were emphasised during a presentation from Hallmarq customer, Dr Cody Alcott, DACVIM, who is a neurologist and owner of Tucson Veterinary Specialists in Arizona. Dr Alcott has seen key benefits of the system to both his practice and patients and demonstrated the machine’s ease of use.
HRH The Princess Royal was introduced to Hallmarq’s Founding Director, Dr Nick Bolas, who revealed the new standing equine leg CT system from Hallmarq, celebrating a shared interest in horses and showcasing some of the advances in imaging technology since her previous visit to Hallmarq six years ago.
For further information about Hallmarq Veterinary Imaging, visit https://hallmarq.net/.