Hagyard-Davidson-McGee Associates (HDM) veterinary hospital will be offering equine emergency demonstrations to the general public on Aug.14, 2004 at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, Ky. A more extensive three-day training course on Aug. 9-11  (designed for those who would like to become certified in equine emergency response) is full, but auditors are being accepted.

The purpose of the demonstrations is to educate horse owners and managers in safe horse-handling techniques when faced with dangerous situations or events that commonly occur on farms. These demonstrations will focus on effective methods using ordinary farm equipment and tools to safely manage common equine emergencies.

Several professionals will be conducting the demonstrations, including Nathan Slovis, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM of HDM; Rebecca Gimenez, PhD, of Clemson University; Allan Schwartz from Days End Farm in Maryland; Chris Ogle from Code 3 Associates; and Captain Gary McFarland from Hutchens Station Fire Department in Bourbon County, Ky. The event will begin on Aug. 14 at 9 a.m. rain or shine and is free of charge.

The more intensive training course on Aug. 9-11 also will be held at the Kentucky Horse Park and is designed to educate first responders such as firefighters, police officers, and other rescue personnel, as well as veterinarians. However, any individuals interested in equine and large animal rescue are welcome. Drs. Rebecca and Tomas Gimenez (DrMedVet, also of Clemson) will instruct and provide hands-on training of rescue and transport of a recumbent horse, containment of large animals, mud and water rescue, trailer accidents, and night search and rescue. Since this course filled so quickly, organizers have decided to allow auditors. The cost to be an auditor is $150 and includes lunch for the three days. Limited space is available and registration is required.

For more information regarding either of these events, please contact LaTonna Wilson at 859/255-8741 or lwilson@hagyard.com.

This event is also sponsored by Fort Dodge Animal Health, Equestrian USRider Motor Plan, Thoroughbred Charities of America, and The Horse: Your Guide To Equine Health Care