Hagyard.com News

2010 Hagyard Cares Benefit Golf Tournament - 08/24/2010

08/24/2010

Join us for this years Hagyard Cares Benefit golf tournament, Monday September 27th. Proceeds go to the James Farris Memorial Scholarship Fund. Can't play but would like to be a sponsor, donate a hole prize or a auction item please contact Nicole Tomlinson by email at ntomlinson@haygard.com or by phone at 859-685-3709 for more information.

2010 Hagyard Challenge Results - 08/23/2010

08/23/2010

Congratulations to Pablo Barrios for winning the 2010 Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award!!! Congratulations to Lauren Crooks who was Friday nights class winner!!

Markey gala honors horse lover Betsy Fishback - 08/19/2010

08/19/2010

Betsy Fishback loved showing pony hunters and jumpers, and also inspiring others to love the sport.

She co-founded the equine program at Midway College in 1979, and she later coached the University of Kentucky's riding team. And through it all she taught horseback riding lessons to people of all ages.

When she was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, her husband, Dr. William D. Fishback, didn't believe the disease could conquer the vibrant woman he knew and loved. But it did, four years later in January 2009.

"It doesn't always work out," he said.

When William Fishback was approached by his boss Dr. Andrew Clark, chief executive officer of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, about honoring Betsy Fishback's work with the sport horse community and with the Kentucky Horse Park, he agreed.

A gala was proposed to help raise money for the Markey Cancer Center, where she had been treated. Although organizers warned William Fishback that a fund-raiser often loses money its first year, The Betsy raised more than $100,000 for Markey last year.

Now in its second year, The Betsy is hoping to do even better.

The event features cocktails, dinner, an auction and the opportunity to watch the $50,000 CSI-W Hagyard Lexington Classic World Cup Qualifier Grand Prix, an event that will help riders earn points toward qualifying for the 2014 FEI World Equestrian Games, set for Normandy, France.

Trish Jaracz, vice president of the Markey Cancer Foundation, said the events are usually scheduled for September, but because of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games being held in Lexington this year, the gala and qualifier were rescheduled for this weekend.

If you can't make the gala, come to the World Cup Qualifier, which starts at 7:30 p.m. Entry to the horse park after 5 p.m. and to the qualifier are free.

Also free is the Welcoming Waters Ceremony scheduled shortly before that competition. At that ceremony, first lady Jane Beshear will receive water from the nine regions represented by the competing riders at the upcoming Games.

The water, sent from Germany, the site of the Games four years ago, will be united with water from Kentucky. It will be stored in a Gathering Vessel and, at the end of the Games in October, sent on to Normandy. The vessel was created by Kentucky artisan Wayne Bates of Murray.

A new twist was added to the fund-raiser this year, Jaracz said. Those attending the qualifying competition or the Welcoming Water Ceremony will have another opportunity to honor Betsy Fishback.

"We'll be selling awareness bracelets for $5," Jaracz said of the wristbands that have "The Betsy" printed on them. Purchasers will have their names entered in a raffle to be drawn at the gala for a cash prize of $2,500. You must be present to win.

Members of all aspects of the horse industry — the Thoroughbred, sport horse, Rolex and World Cup — are coming to the gala to "honor such a neat woman," Jaracz said.

William Fishback said his wife would be happy with the event.

"She would approve," he said. "We're raising money for Markey, which she appreciated, and she would enjoy the horse show," he said.

"She'd be quite pleased."

If you go
The Betsy Gala andThe Welcoming Waters Ceremony
When: Friday, Aug 20; 5:30 p.m. for the gala, 7 p.m. for the ceremony, 7:30 p.m. for World Cup Qualifier
Where: Indoor Arena at the Kentucky Horse Park
Cost: $350 per person or $2,500 for a table at the gala. The ceremony and competition are free
Call: (859) 323-6448

Betsy Fishback helped found the equine program at Midway and coached a UK riding team.

Reach Merlene Davis at (859) 231-3218 or 1-800-950-6397, Ext. 3218, or mdavis1@herald-leader.com.

LexArts, Horsemania 2010 at Hagyard Equine - 08/12/2010

08/12/2010

Toulouse-La Track

Artists: Priscilla Roberts Fallon and Anna Daniel Hall
Sponsor: The Employees of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
Location: 4250 Iron Works Pike

Toulouse-La Track pays homage to the artwork of Henri de Toulouse Lautrec. Priscilla Roberts Fallon, a native of Lexington, worked with Whitesburg portrait painter Anna Daniel Hall to create this unique horse. Fallon, a founding member of the Artists Attic in Lexington, works in mixed media and especially loves painting horses. She was a past vice president of the Lexington Art League. Hall, a charter member of the Whitesburg Art League and a life member of the Lexington Art League, has studios in Whitesburg and the Artists’ Attic in Lexington.

Dr. Jennifer Feiner VMD of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Becomes 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Quarantine Veterinarian - 08/12/2010

08/12/2010

Lexington, KY - August 12, 2010 - As the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ approach, preparation has begun for the arrival of the equine athletes at the Kentucky Horse Park. All elements are being carefully examined, from travel, to the quarantine facility to the well-being of equine athletes. Dr. Jennifer Feiner VMD, of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, will be the veterinarian in charge of the quarantine, which will follow all protocols provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Dr. Feiner will utilize her experience with equine quarantine gained from her years as a veterinarian and as a quarantine veterinarian during the Hong Kong Olympics. Dr. Feiner and her team will play an important role in protecting equines from infectious diseases while they are competing at the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

Since Dr. Feiner was young, she always knew that becoming a veterinarian was something she wanted to do. From owning horses to participating in pony club, to riding as an eventer, her interaction with equines led her to pursuing her specialty at the University of Pennsylvania.

Working at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Dr. Feiner works with the High Performance Sport Horses. She noted, "I became involved with the high performance discipline because as an eventer my goals are similar to the goals of high performance equestrians. I enjoy helping the clients keep their horses at the levels they are at or levels they want their horses to progress to."

Dr. Feiner's first international test event was in 2007. It was her first time working the quarantine under Dr. Keith Watkins. The quarantine was set-up at Hong Kong's Jockey Club. "Myself and another associate at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute spent three weeks setting up the quarantine in preparation for trialing the quarantine during a test event," explained Dr. Feiner. "Our daily routine required us to check temperatures of the horses, we checked for shipping fever and our main concern was equine influenza. At the same time that the Olympics were to be held, an outbreak in Australia had occurred of equine influenza, and in Florida herpes was an issue."

She continued, "What was interesting was the fact that the Equestrian Olympics took place in Hong Kong instead of China because China was never a disease-free quarantine zone. To add to the challenge of the quarantine was the fact that there was not adequate space in Hong Kong. Approximately 300 horses were on a 30-acre track. The Hong Kong horses also lived in a three-story building with inside ventilation. If a horse was introduced with an infectious disease the disease would spread rapidly. Therefore it was imperative that nothing infectious was brought into the Jockey Club or Hong Kong. The quarantine facility for the Olympic horses was a separate facility to the three-story building. There was distance between the Olympic horses and the horses of Hong Kong but our team continued our normal monitoring and precautions with the Olympic horses so that all equines remained safe."

During the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ (World Equestrian Games) Dr. Feiner will be in charge of the quarantine team for the USDA. Their responsibilities include monitoring the off loading of the horses from the plane, monitoring the horses in quarantine and checking their disease status the entire time during the World Equestrian Games. There will be approximately 600 horses that Dr. Feiner and her team will monitor. After 42 hours of being stabled at the quarantine the horses will be shipped to the Kentucky Horse Park. "I look forward to the World Equestrian Games and I am confident that myself and our team will be prepared for this event. We are comfortable with the entire process and the long flights because of our clinical experience flying client's horses back and forth to Europe, South America and Australasia."

Dr. Feiner makes her veterinarian home at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in Lexington, KY. She loves being able to have a career she loves surrounded by a team she enjoys every day. She commented, "Every day I am doing something I love. If I was not taking care of someone else's horses I would be taking care of my own. I love the team and the atmosphere at Hagyard. There are so many people that are so knowledgeable and back you up all of the time; it is a wonderful practice to be a part of."

About Hagyard Equine Medical Institute:

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute of Lexington, KY, was founded in 1876. The practice, which is located directly across from the Kentucky Horse Park, is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world and is known for its excellence in veterinary medicine. The Hagyard Sport Horse Program, a specialized department at the practice, serves the nation's top sport horse athletes and brings the same level of excellent care to high performance horses that the institute has provided for the race horse and breeding industries for decades.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens Open MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The practice has performed veterinary medicine for more than 134 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

For more information on the practice at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please go to www.hagyard.com.

Photo Credit. Dr. Jennifer Feiner VMD of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute evaluating and treating an equine. Photo � 2010Courtesy of Client. This photo may be used free of charge only in relation to this press release.

HEMI Invites All Horse Owners to Free Gastric Ulcer Scope Clinic - 07/27/2010

07/27/2010

Lexington, KY-July 27, 2010- Hagyard Equine Medical Institute would like to invite all horse owners to a special gastric ulcer scoping event. This educational seminar takes place on August 3, 2010 at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute's Sport Horse Facility in Lexington, KY. The clinic will begin at 8:00a.m., and it will serve to educate and enlighten horse owners about Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS).

Horses that travel regularly, compete, train, are confined at times, or have experienced other stressful situations may have developed stomach ulcers. Scoping the horse's stomach is the only definite way to determine if a horse has stomach ulcers. Many horses develop stomach ulcers without the rider, trainer, or owner knowing that is what causing the horse's discomfort. The scoping clinic will take about 30 minutes and one of Hagyard's experienced veterinarians will evaluate the lining of the horse's stomach for signs of EGUS. Hagyard will provide the customer with feedback for treatment and prevention and will answer any questions that the customer may be concerned about.

In addition to the free scope examination, any owners with horse's that may have ulcers will receive a coupon for $5.00 off each tube of Gastrogard or Ulcergard. This discount is available for up to 28 tubes purchased at Hagyard Pharmacy. Dr. Nathan M. Slovis, DVM, DACVIM, CHT with McGee Medical and Critical Care Center at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, noted, " There are a lot of show horses that may have gastric ulcers but the owners do not realize it because the horse is not showing the usual clinical signs or the horse has a high tolerance of pain. This gastrointestinal disorder not only causes the horse discomfort but may decrease the stamina of the horse or affect the horse's performance. We are holding this free clinic so owners can rule out ulcers and can understand how ulcers affect the horse's performance. Not only is this the perfect opportunity to take advantage of the clinic but anyone can come and visit the world-renowned sport horse facility, view the equipment we use and become educated on gastric ulcers."

If you would like to sign-up for the event you can contact Sara Collins at (859) 685-3726 or Nicole Tomlinson at (859) 685-3726 to reserve your space.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Flex-Tra HA� and Flex-Tra 200� are Proud to Support Para-Equestrian Hart and Chef d'Equipe Ransehousen - 07/15/2010

07/15/2010

Lexington, KY- July 15, 2010-Hagyard Equine Medical Institute has served multiple disciplines in the equestrian sport since 1876. They have always made it their goal to support those equestrians and their horses that have been leaders in every day life and leaders in their sport. Two of the equestrians they have supported include Missy Ransehousen and Rebecca Hart.

Ransehousen has had great success in eventing at the international level, while Hart has made her name at the 2008 Paralympics in Hong Kong with top honors in Para-Dressage and was this year's 2010 USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National champion and reserve champion. Over the last few years, Ransehousen has been coaching Hart to multiple victories while also continuing to maintain her top status in eventing.

From competing at the Rolex Three Day Event to becoming the Chef d'Equipe for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™, Ransehousen has lead an impressive career. Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is happy to support the efforts of Ransehousen and Hart, as well as their equine athletes, on their road to the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™ this fall in Lexington, KY. By using Hagyard Flex-Tra Oral Joint Products, both Ransehousen and Hartcan help protect the health and mobility of their horses' joints and cartilage tissues, and as such, have confidence that the horse's joints will not affect their international performance.

Many people hear the name Ransehousen and immediately think of Jessica Ransehousen, who is a dressage legend and the 2009 USEF Lifetime Achievement Award winner. Missy has grown up making her own name for herself while riding and training at Blue Hill Farm in Unionville, PA, and has aquired multiple accolades throughout her career. A few of her awards include the Gold Medal at the 1988 Young Rider Championships; the Good Sportsmanship Award; the Markham Trophy; finishing as the USET's Highest Placed Young Rider at Fair Hil CDI*** in 1989; at the 1995 Pan American Games was part of the Silver Medal Team, placing 5th individually; and in 2008 she finished third at Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event.

In addition to riding, Ransehousen has served as the Para-Equestrian's National Team Coach at the Paralympics in 2000 in Sydney, 2004 in Athens, and 2008 in Hong Kong, and is also the Chef d'Equipe for the Para-Dressage Team for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

Under Ransehousen's instruction, Hart earned top honors in 2008 in the Hong Kong Paralympics, and recently topped the Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships with two horses. Going forward, Hart is looking forward to hopefully being selected for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™.

Dr. Andrew Clark, CEO of Hagyard noted, "We have watched Missy Ransehousen's career and have admired her horsemanship for years. She is at the top of the Eventing game. Not satisfied to merely be at the top of the game, she began to contribute to the sport in a unique way, helping to include a new group of athletes at the international level. She began coaching Para-Equestrian athletes and ultimately became the Chef d'Equipe for the US Para-Equestrian Team. Hagyard saw Missy as an opportunity to help not only a high level competitor but also an equestrian with a great 'big picture' approach to life."

He continued, "Although we had seen Becca Hart in demonstration rides and competition, when we saw her move the crowd as the keynote speaker for Central Kentucky Riding for Hope's annual gala, we knew she was an equestrian with whom Hagyard would like to be associated. Since she and Missy were already a team and both represent the traits we admire in the equine industry; motivation, horsemanship, compassion, work ethic and great decision making; we had our Flex-Tra team in place. Every day when I look out the window across the street to the Kentucky Horse Park I realize the enormity of the accomplishment for Lexington to host WEG and for the horses and riders to qualify and compete in WEG. All the staff and Doctors at Hagyard wish great luck and success to WEG and the WEG competitors!"

About the Hagyard Flex-Tra � family of products:

Hagyard Pharmacy is pleased to introduce Flex-Tra HA, a safe and effective oral liquid hyaluronan supplement for the support of joint health and mobility in horses. The profound roles of the body's own hyaluronan in healthy joints and connective tissue function are the basis for using Flex-Tra HA. That's why Flex-Tra HA has been designed to match the body's own hyaluronan. Flex-Tra HA provides consistent replenishment of hyaluronan. The physical properties of hyaluronan provide the hydration and moisture retention necessary to lubricate the joints and tissues, and to initiate cell proliferation and migration within the body.

Hagyard also continues to bring you Flex-Tra 200�, an oral "all-in-one" joint health supplement developed by the world-renowned surgeons at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Flex-Tra 200� contains hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM as well as trace elements and minerals necessary to support equine joint health. Flex-Tra 200� is a convenient, affordable way to promote healthy joints and healthy horses. Three of the top ten finishers at the 2008 Rolex Three Day Event use Flex-Tra 200� to keep their horses at the top of their game.
Contact Hagyard Pharmacy at 888-323-7798 for more information.

About Hagyard Equine Medical Institute:

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute of Lexington, KY, was founded in 1876. The practice, which is located directly across from the Kentucky Horse Park, is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world and is known for its excellence in veterinary medicine. The Hagyard Sport Horse Program, a specialized department at the practice, serves the nation's top sport horse athletes and brings the same level of excellent care to high performance horses that the institute has provided for the race horse and breeding industries for decades. The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens Open MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The practice has performed veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

For more information on the practice at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please go to www.hagyard.com.

Photo Credit: Missy Ransehousen and Rebecca Hart at the USEF Para-Equestrian Dressage National Championships. Photo � 2010 Lindsay Y McCall/PMG.

You are invited to a special educational event! - 07/01/2010

07/01/2010

We would like to invite you to a special gastric ulcer scoping event to provideeducation about stomach ulcers in horses, also known as Equine Gastric UlcerSyndrome (EGUS).

Date: Tuesday, August 3rd, 2010
Time: 8:00am – End
Location: Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
Sport Horse Facility
4250 Iron Works Pike
Lexington, KY 40511

If your horse often travels, competes, trains, is confined or experiences other potentially
stressful situations, please sign up for a free gastroscopy.* Scopings are the only
definitive way to determine if a horse has stomach ulcers. In about 30 minutes, a
veterinarian will evaluate the lining of your horse’s stomach for signs of EGUS and
provide customized feedback for treatment and prevention.

Space is limited so please reserve your space today. You will be notified within two
days of your confirmed scoping time. If you are unable to bring your horse please
attend to learn more about EGUS and for event specials.

Scope examination is performed free of charge and if your horse has ulcers you will
receive a coupon for $5.00 off each tube of Gastrogard or Ulcergard, up to 28 tubes,
purchased at Hagyard Pharmacy.

Please contact Sara Collins at 859-685-3726 or Nicole Tomlinson
at 859-685-3709 to reserve your space today!

Download PDF

*Owner must sign consent and release form prior to gastroscopy. Medical Institute reserve the right to refuse a horse if owner has not followed pre-examination instructions.

International Symposium on Equine Reproduction presents a complimentary opportunity for horse owners and farm managers interested in the latest findings on Equine Reproduction. - 06/25/2010

06/25/2010

International Symposium on Equine Reproduction presents a complimentary opportunity for horse owners and farm managers interested in the latest findings on Equine Reproduction.

July 31, 2010

8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

University of Kentucky

Information / RSVP

info@iser2010.com

859-685-3709

www.iser2010.com

Equine Medications and Compounding - 06/25/2010

06/25/2010

Equine Medications and Compounding
Discussion of equine medication use and compounding concerns with pharmacist Scarlet Thomas.
Jun 07, 2010

Understanding Foal Care: Take 2 - 06/25/2010

06/25/2010

Understanding Foal Care: Take 2

Foal care - understanding and learning the basics.

Speakers: Kim A. Sprayberry, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, of the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
Wendy Vaala, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, Intervet equine technical services specialist

Marilyn Little-Meredith and Blue Curacao Sped to Victory in $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at Kentucky Spring Classic - 05/21/2010

05/21/2010

Lexington, KY - May 20, 2010 - The $30,000 Hagyard Classic was held tonight at the Kentucky Horse Park during the Kentucky Spring Classic, and with a 13 horse jump-off it proved to be the most exciting event thus far. Marilyn Little-Meredith raced to the top spot with Blue Curacao, beating Pablo Barrios and G & C LaGran by just tenths of a second. This event was the second competition in the Hagyard Challenge Series, which features a $50,000 Leading Rider Award.

Conrad Homfeld designed the technical course in the Main Stadium, which will host the show jumping events for the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™. The first round featured 13 numbered obstacles with a liverpool and three double combinations. A surprising 13 horse and rider combinations managed to complete the opening round without fault and advance to the short course. They began over a single oxer before making a long left turn to a single vertical and continuing to an oxer-vertical combination. Riders then had a long gallop off the right lead to an oxer before making a sharp left turn to a tall vertical. Finally, riders galloped home over a single oxer towards the gate.

Reed Kessler was the youngest rider in the class aboard Mika and the pair entered the ring aiming for the wind. As they came off of the double combination they picked up the pace and Mika lengthened his stride. The duo stopped the clock at 36.97 seconds with all the rails in their cups, which held up for the fourth place award.

Paige Johnson was next in the ring with Chiron S, owned by Salamander Farm. The twosome amped up the excitement as they tried to beat Kessler's time. Chiron S was low to the ground and stretched out as he made his away across the ring to each jump. They completed the round without fault and broke the beam at 35.00 seconds to take home the third place honors.

When Pablo Barrios entered the ring with G & C LaGran, owned by G & C Farm, Gustavo & Carolina Mirabal, the crowd was waiting to see how the incredible speed pair would perform. They did not disappoint as they easily cleared all the fences and were ahead at the split. The duo continued their blazing pace and tripped the timers at 34.51 seconds to take over the lead, but the class was not over yet.

Marilyn Little-Meredith was completely focused on the task at hand when she stepped into the arena aboard her talented, young mount Blue Curacao, owned by Mary and Paul Lober. She was careful not to watch any rounds before her so that she would not be chasing anyone's time. Meredith let Blue Curacao pick-up a fast gallop to the first fence and never let-up as they soared over each obstacle. Their speed was amazing and they dashed across the finish line in 34.35 seconds, beating Barrios by just 2/10ths of a second to the night's victory gallop.

"Blue Curacao was on fire tonight; she was really amazing and it was an absolute blast," smiled Meredith. "I did not watch anyone because I thought coming off of last Saturday would just go at the pace she seems comfortable with and be as fast as I can. She's fast, but I think if I had to do it again I could not go any faster."

Meredith was surprised by how many riders went clear during tonight's first round because she felt the course was very technical. She knew when she made it to the short course that she would have to go all out. "I just kind of lucked out," she commented. "The distances were good off the turns, things were coming up right. I just kept going with it, put all the chips on the table and it worked out.

Blue Curacao was very fresh coming into tonight's class and Meredith was worried that she made a mistake giving her a few days off. "I thought that she would be too fresh coming into a night class where there was a lot of distraction," said Meredith. "She was very serious from start to finish. The moment I got on her tonight she was really on her job and I thought she was going to go really well."

Pablo Barrios thought he had laid down a winning time with G & C LaGran, but he decided to add a stride to the final course. "LaGran felt really good," he explained. "I knew I left a little gap on the last line. I saw the same eight strides that Marilyn saw but I decided to be a little more conservative. She ended up winning because she took the risk that I did not."

Barrios and his outstanding group of horses have dominated the circuit during 2010. He joined with G & C Farm, Gustavo & Carolina Mirabal, and together they have started a very special partnership. "I know Gustavo from a long time ago, we started riding together when we were kids," he noted. "Gustavo decided to move to Wellington and started buying horses. Now we have a big organization with a lot of horses, a lot of things to do, a lot of plans."

Tonight's class was part of the Hagyard Challenge Series, which features five classes throughout the spring and summer. The final event, the $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington will be held August 20, 2010 during the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show. The rider who accumulates the most points during the Series will receive a $50,000 Leading Rider Award.

"Series that offer rider bonuses are a fantastic incentive for riders to really keep coming out and giving it a go," acknowledge Meredith. "When there is an overall incentive bonus it really keeps everybody galloping and keeps everybody running for it."

Dr. Andy Clark, DVM/MBA, and CEO of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, was on site to watch tonight's exciting event. "I think it was an awesome class," he smiled. "We are very excited to be involved with this because it is an opportunity for us to help support an industry that is growing in our area."

The Kentucky Spring Classic will continue this week with more exciting jumper action in the Main Stadium. The highlight event will be the $55,000 Mary Rena Murphy Grand Prix, sponsored by Audi of Lexington, which will be held Saturday, May 22, at 6 p.m. The following morning the $20,000 Bluegrass Classic will get underway at 8 a.m. during the final day of competition.

For more information about the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows please visit www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Photo Credit: Marilyn Little-Meredith galloped to victory in the $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at the Kentucky Spring Classic. Photo By: Rebecca Walton/PMG. Photograph may be used only in relation to this PMG press release.

Pablo Barrios Scores Top Two Spots in $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at Kentucky Spring Horse Show - 05/13/2010

05/13/2010

Lexington, KY - May 13, 2010 - Pablo Barrios began his domination of the Kentucky Spring Horse Show yesterday and was able to continue his stellar year today during the $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic. G & C Sinatra took home the first place award with Barrios after completing a double clear effort in 41.04 seconds. Barrios then tried to catch his own time when he rode G & C Blanchee Z across the finish line in 41.55 seconds for the second place prize.

Tonight's event was held in the Main Stadium, which is the site of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games™. It was the first of the five classes that make up the Hagyard Challenge Series. The classes are held at the Kentucky Horse Park during the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows and then Kentucky Summer horse shows. The rider who accumulates the most points throughout the five-class series will be awarded the $50,000 Leading Rider Bonus Award.

Tonight's first round, which was designed by Richard Jeffery of Bournemouth, England , was very long with 13 numbered obstacles and 16 jumping efforts. It featured a double combination, a triple combination, a liverpool fence, and an open water fence. The triple combination proved to be the most difficult obstacle, with 12 horses lowering its height throughout the evening.

Eight riders advanced to the jump-off, which began over a large oxer, followed by a tight left turn to a single vertical. Riders then continued to the first two fences in the triple combination before making a right turn to a single vertical. They then came around to a single oxer. Finally, riders jumped the liverpool oxer, made a tight right turn and galloped home over a large oxer.

Christine McCrea took an early lead with Romantovich Take One, owned by Candy Tribble and Windsor Show Stables. The pair left all the rails in their jumps, easily advancing to the jump-off. They set a very quick pace as they entered the ring for the short course, completing a double clear effort in 42.09 seconds, which held up for the third place award.

Reed Kessler was next to compete in the jump-off, and made a good attempt to catch McCrea's time with Mika. The pair easily cleared all the fences in their path and tripped the timers at 42.11 seconds to take home the fourth place honors.

When Pablo Barrios (VEN) entered the ring with G & C Sinatra, owned by G & C Farm, Gustavo & Carolina Mirabal, and Barrios, the crowd knew they would be in for an excellent show. Barrios had multiple wins during the 2009 summer season and the 2010 winter season. During the Kentucky Spring Horse Show he has already won four classes, tonight he planned to continue his winning ways.

Barrios and G & C Sinatra picked up a gallop to the first fence and cleared it with room to spare, before moving to the next obstacle in an easy eight strides. As they winded their way through the course Barrios and G & C Sinatra used tight turns and fast gallops to cover the ground very efficiently. With every rail in its cup the duo raced across the finish line in 41.04 seconds to take home tonight's winning check.

The last horse in the ring, G & C Blanchee Z owned by G & C Farm, Gustavo & Carolina Mirabal, was also a Barrios mount, and despite being in the lead Barrios still tried to beat his time. The pair completed a clear round and sailed into the second place position as they stopped the clock at 41.55 seconds.

Throughout the last two years the G & C Farm horses have been at the top of the show jumping ranks and they continue to get better. "I feel very confident with all the horses and the way I am riding," noted Barrios. "The competitions continue to go well and I am very excited."

Barrios has had numerous success with G & C Sinatra and today was no exception. "Sinatra is a horse that I know very well and I am considering him for the World Equestrian Games," he commented. "He always jumps nicely here and he was really easy during the first course. He has learned a lot and is becoming easier to ride."

During tonight's class the triple combination caused problems for many of the riders, and when Barrios walked the course it was one of his main concerns. "The triple was pretty tight for my horses because they have a big stride," he explained. "It was oxer, vertical, vertical coming home, and very tight. My horses have a big step so I was worried about that, but the rest of the course was very nice to ride."

When he went in the ring for the jump-off, Barrios was able to utilize both of his horse's skills. "They both have a big step and they are very scopey," he said. "They are learning and they are going fast. I think it was a very good jump-off for Sinatra because he's very scopey and he can turn tightly. He has a huge step so after the liverpool he was very fast coming home."

Last year Barrios' numerous accomplishments throughout the year almost won him the $50,000 Hagyard Leading Rider Bonus. "It's a great opportunity because normally a big percentage of the prize money goes to the owners," he acknowledged. "It is nice to have something that goes straight to the rider's pocket. This bonus is especially nice because it is $50,000 for the winner.

The Hagyard Challenge Series will continue next week with its second event, the $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic on May 20, 2010 in the Main Stadium. The world-class competition at the Kentucky Spring Horse Show will feature another highlight event this week on Sunday, May 16, 2010. The top jumper riders will have the opportunity to compete for the title during the $55,000 Commonwealth Grand Prix, beginning at 4 p.m. in the Main Stadium.

For more information about the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows please go to www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Recognizes Sponsors of the 2010 $50,000 Leading Rider Award. - 05/13/2010

05/13/2010

Lexington, KY- May 13, 2010- On Thursday evening, May 13, 2010 the first of five grand prix events in the Hagyard Challenge Series will occur. The Hagyard Challenge Series is a series of grand prix events that are part of the Kentucky Horse Shows at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Each week competitors will race to accumulate the most points for the final prize of the $50,000 Leading Rider Award. This award would not be possible without many generous sponsors including presenting sponsor Adequan�; Dean Dorton Ford; Pfizer Animal Health; Hagyard Flex-Tra 200; Kathleen Sullivan, CIMA, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney; Turf Town Properties; Audi of Lexington; and The Spa at Griffin Gate Resort.

Dates of the Hagyard Challenge Series are as follows:

May 13: $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic Grand Prix

May 20: $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, CSI 2*

July 29: $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic

August 5: $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic

August 20: $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington Grand Prix

All grand prix classes will offer the same points. The points are awarded as follows: 1st place-250. 2nd-170, 3rd-120, 4th-100, 5th-80, 6th-70, 7th-60, 8th-50, 9th-40, 10th-30-, 11th-20, 12th-10.

The Hagyard Challenge Series $50,000 Leading Rider Award will be presented following the final event, the $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington Grand Prix on August 20, 2010. For many of these sponsors the Leading Rider Award has been a program that they have been a part of for consecutive years. Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is excited and grateful that they can list these sponsors names and logos as part of the Hagyard Challenge Series.

Nicole Tomlinson from Hagyard Equine Medical Institute commented, "We are very grateful to our sponsors because without them the Leading Rider Award would not be possible. We know the state of the economy has made things hard for everyone right now and we appreciate having these sponsors continued support in addition to the new sponsors that have joined us this year. We look forward to another exciting Hagyard Challenge Series.

About the 2010 Leading Rider Award Sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor Adequan�:

Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc., makers of Adequan� (Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan) and Equiphen� (Phenylbutazone) Paste, continue to support the veterinarian profession and equine organizations that are responsible for the health and well being of the horse. Education is the key to better health care and the veterinarian and horse owner can access resources at the following web site www.Adequan� .com to learn more about equine joint health.

Dean Dorton Ford:

Dean Dorton Ford is a full-service accounting and business advisory firm providing professional services to clients of all sizes in a variety of industries. Being located in the heart of Central Kentucky, known for its world-class horse businesses, events, and
culture, Dean Dorton Ford has provided extensive accounting, tax and business consulting services to the equine industry since the firm's inception in 1979. Equine industry clients from Kentucky and beyond gain comfort by having Dean Dorton Ford
industry specialists work for them. For more information, please visit www.ddfky.com.

Pfizer Animal Health:

Pfizer Animal Health, a business of Pfizer Inc., is a world leader in discovering and developing innovative animal prescription medicines and vaccines, investing an estimated $300 million annually in animal health product research and development. Pfizer Animal Health's industry-leading U.S. equine product portfolio-broadened by the acquisition of Fort Dodge-now includes a wide range of biologics, parasiticides and sedatives / analgesics. For more information on how Pfizer Animal Health helps horses to live longer, healthier lives, visit www.PfizerAH.com..

Hagyard Flex-Tra 200�:

Hagyard Pharmacy brings you Flex-Tra 200, an oral "all-in-one" joint health supplement developed by the surgeons at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Flex-tra 200 contains hyaluronic acid, glucosamine, chondroitin, and MSM as well as trace elements and minerals necessary to support equine joint health. Flex-Tra 200 is a convenient, affordable way to promote healthy joints and healthy horses. By the way, 3 of the top 10 finishers at the 2008 Rolex Three Day Event are Flex-Tra 200 consumers! Contact the Hagyard Pharmacy at 888-323-7798 for more information.

Kathleen Sullivan, CIMA, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney:

Kathleen Sullivan is a Senior Vice President-Wealth Management for Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, one of the country's most highly regarded investment firms. She has also earned the prestigious CIMA designation from the Wharton School of Business
in 2002. As a Financial Advisor in the industry since 1991, Kathleen provides wealth management consulting to individuals who desire a trustworthy professional to help them achieve their financial goals. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney is one of the leading providers of comprehensive financial planning and advisory services to high-net-worth investors, institutions, corporations and foundations. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC

Turf Town Properties:

Turf Town Properties is proud to be a sponsor of the Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award. Since its founding in 1978, Turf Town Properties has consistently sold fine properties in a broad price range with an emphasis on quality service. They would like to offer their expertise and excellent customer service to farm buyers in the area. Turf Town has agents that specialize in Central Kentucky farm properties. If you would like a real horse person to help you find that perfect horse farm or raw land with horse farm potential, please give one of their farm agents a call. You can visit all Central Kentucky farms at www.lexhorsefarms.com.

Audi of Lexington

Audi of Lexington offers many automotive products and services to our customers. From quality new Audis to used cars, we know anyone looking for a new or used car, in or around Lexington, will likely find what they want at our dealership. We carry a comprehensive line of Audi vehicles, including the A3, A4, A5,S5, A6, A8, Q5, Q7, and TT models, making us a good choice as your Lexington Audi car dealer. Our services include trusted car repairs, original Audi parts, and auto financing help for our customers. Call Audi of Lexington at 866-862-AUDI, or come a visit us. We're conveniently located at 3000 Pink Pigeon Parkway, Lexington, KY 40509, and we are looking forward to helping you with your automotive needs. Audi of Lexington is proud to be a sponsor of the Leading Rider Award.

The Spa at Griffin Gate

The Spa at Griffin Gate is the only full service spa in Lexington and is located just 5 minutes from the Kentucky Horse Park. Unwind with a massage, facial, body scrub, manicure, pedicure or body wrap in our full service spa. Relax in our steam room with eucalyptus spray. Specialty rider treatments available. To book your spa appointment, call 1-859-288-6175 or visit TheSpaAtGriffinGate.com.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Announces 2010 $50,000 Leading Rider Award - 05/11/2010

05/11/2010

Lexington, KY- May 11, 2010- This week marks the beginning of the Kentucky Horse Shows at the Kentucky Horse Park in Lexington, KY. Each week of the Kentucky Horse Shows offers exciting competition, including the race to the Leading Rider Award. $50,000 will be awarded to the rider accumulating the most points in the Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award.

Sponsors of the $50,000 Leading Rider Award include Dean, Dorton, & Ford; Pfizer Animal Health; Hagyard Flex-Tra 200; Kathleen Sullivan, CIMA, Morgan Stanley Smith Barney; Turf Town Properties; Audi of Lexington and The Spa at Griffin Gate Resort.
Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is pleased to announce the 2010 addition of presenting sponsor Adequan�to the Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award Program .

One of the nation's leaders in the fight against degenerative joint disease in equines, the veterinarian-trusted name of Adequan� (polysulfated glycosaminoglycan) has joined Hagyard Equine Medical Institute as the Presenting Sponsor of the Leading Rider Award. "This sponsorship opportunity makes so much sense stated Allyn Mann, Sr. Manager at Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc., the makers of Adequan�. Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is a long time supporter of Adequan�, and one of the largest users of the medication in the country. This sponsorship is really a win-win for both organizations".

The Hagyard Challenge Series is a show jumping competition that consists of five grand prix events, beginning May 13 and concluding August 20, 2010. The award will be presented following the $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington Grand Prix on August 20,2010. All grand prix classes will offer the same number of points per placing regardless of the amount of the prize money awarded. The Hagyard Challenge Series point system will be: 1st place-250 points, 2nd-170 points, 3rd-120 points, 4th-100 points, 5th-80 points, 6th-70 points, 7th-60 points, 8th-50 points, 9th-40 points, 10th-30 points, 11th-20 points, and 12th-10 points. In 2009, Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider was presented to former Olympian and nine-time AGA Rider of the Year, Margie Engle.

Engle has always enjoyed showing in Kentucky, and looks forward to the Hagyard Challenge Series. Engle commented, "I really love showing in Kentucky I think it has the best facilities in our country. It is fantastic, so I am planning on showing there as much as I can. The footing is great, we have preferred stabling, there are lots of places to go ride, the horses seem to really enjoy riding on the outside course, and it is just a really wonderful facility. The other nice part is that they have the indoor ring if needed." She continued, "The Hagyard Challenge Series is a great series, it is a really good incentive to show in Kentucky because it gives the riders a chance to go for something themselves, and it is kind of nice that the riders get a bonus. It is a great incentive, and I think it is great that Hagyard is putting the money behind the horse show."

Dates of the Hagyard Challenge Series are as follows:
May 13: $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic Grand Prix
May 20: $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, CSI 2*
July 29: $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic
August 5: $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic
August 20: $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington Grand Prix

About Presenting Sponsor Adequan�:

Luitpold Pharmaceuticals, Inc., makers of Adequan� (Polysulfated Glycosaminoglycan) and Equiphen� (Phenylbutazone) Paste, continue to support the veterinarian profession and equine organizations that are responsible for the health and well being of the horse. Education is the key to better health care and the veterinarian and horse owner can access resources at the following web site www.adequan.com to learn more about equine joint health.

About Hagyard Equine Medical Institute:

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute of Lexington, KY, was founded in 1876. The practice, which is located directly across from the Kentucky Horse Park, is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world and is known for its excellence in veterinary medicine. The Hagyard Sport Horse Program, a specialized department at the practice, serves the nation's top sport horse athletes and brings the same level of excellent care to high performance horses that the institute has provided for the race horse and breeding industries for decades.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens Open MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The practice has performed veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Joins the Social Media Network - 05/05/2010

05/05/2010

Lexington, KY- May 5, 2010-The Hagyard Equine Medical Institute has always been recognized as an innovative facility that not only features the latest in veterinary technology, but also computer technology. From their constantly updated website, to their Twitter account, to their brand new Facebook account, Hagyard is making it easier for supporters, clients, potential clients, and the equestrian community to constantly stay updated with the Hagyard team.

Last year during the Hagyard Challenge Series at the Kentucky Horse Shows, Nicole Tomlinson from Hagyard set up a Twitter account as a way to report the live clear round results of the series. Tomlinson had been tweeting the results of the World Cup Qualifier and at the last minute during the jump off, Tomlinson had to set up for the award presentation and Twitter followers were not receiving tweets for a short time. During that time Dr. Andy Clark's phone rang with followers wanting to know what happened and who had won. That was when the value of these tweets became apparent. Exhibitors and participants wanted to know the winner of the series, and Nicole was able to quickly report the results to those who were following the Hagyard tweets around the world. From phone calls to emails, Hagyard realized that there were a great number of people who enjoyed being able to receive the results with the comments live.

Clear round horse and rider combinations will be tweeted at this year's upcoming 2010 Hagyard Challenge Series. The series consists of five grand prix show jumping competitions at the world-class Kentucky Horse Park. These classes start in May at the Kentucky Spring Horse Shows and conclude in August at the Bluegrass Festival Horse Show. The dates for the series, which will be tweeted, include:

May 13, in the Main Outdoor Stadium during the Kentucky Spring Horse Show, May 20, $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, CSI 2*, July 29, $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, August 5, $25,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic, and lastly the $50,000 Hagyard CSI-W Lexington Grand Prix held August 20, 2010.

Hagyard has always had an informative website as well as a place in the media's eye, but this modern social media has taken technology to a new level, allowing Hagyard to increase their reach to everyone involved in the equestrian sport.

Social Media Marketing not only saves money for all types of companies, but also provides a way to reach audiences that were otherwise unreachable, such as international clientele. With the 2010 FEI Alltech World Equestrian Games coming to Lexington and the newly renovated Kentucky Horse Park, there are many reasons to visit the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Hagyard welcomes visitors from near and far to come to the facility; whether it be to witness the magnificent operation's property, or get proper care for an equine, Hagyard is the place to be.

In addition the great response on Twitter, the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute recently became the owners of a brand new Hagyard Facebook account. Dr. Andy Clark, CEO of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute commented, "When television came along, it took 24 years to get to 90 million people. When the internet arrived, it took 4 years to get to 90 million people, when Facebook started it took a month and a half to get to 90 million people. We are trying to do those sorts of things to just get out there and let people who are interested know what is going on."

The Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Facebook and Twitter accounts can be accessed through www.Hagyard.comor through the providers of Facebook and Twitter.

The Hagyard Equine Medical Institute of Lexington, KY, was founded in 1876. The institute, which is located directly across from the Kentucky Horse Park, is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world and is known for its excellence in veterinary medicine. The Hagyard Sport Horse Program, a specialized department at the institute, serves the nation's top sport horse athletes and brings the same level of excellent care to high performance horses that the institute has provided for the race horse and breeding industries for decades.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens Open MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, 24-hour ambulance and emergency services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. The institute has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Returns as Official Veterinarian at Horse Shows by the Bay - 05/04/2010

05/04/2010

Traverse City, MI - May 3, 2010 - Horse Sports by the Bay, Inc. is pleased to announce that Hagyard Equine Medical Institute's Sport Horse Program will once again provide the official veterinarians for the Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival. Horse Shows by the Bay is a month-long equestrian festival held at the beautiful Flintfields Horse Park in Traverse City, MI, July 14-August 1. Many of the top horses and riders from all over the country travel to northern Michigan for this unique horse show experience, and those horses will receive the best care, thanks to the experienced veterinarians from Hagyard Equine Medical Institute.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, one of the leading providers of equine healthcare, offers veterinary service to horse shows through the Hagyard Sport Horse program. This division of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute specializes in the care and maintenance of show horse athletes, bringing the same quality of treatment to sport horses that the practice has provided for the race horse and breeding industries. The Hagyard Sport Horse program incorporates comprehensive services, therapies and performance horse management to serve horses that compete across the country on a national level. The program is led by Duncan Peters, DVM, MS and Holly Schmitt, DVM.

Hagyard Sport Horse veterinarians will be on site at several major shows this summer, representing an extension of the Lexington, KY, practice where more than 60 veterinarians excel in various medical and surgical specialties. Dr. Holly Schmitt will return as the official veterinarian for Horse Shows by the Bay this year, representing Hagyard's Sport Horse Program. Dr. Schmitt will be in Michigan for Horse Shows by the Bay Series I, II, and III, July 14-August 1. Dr. Schmitt will also return to Michigan in September for the 2010 Great American Insurance Group/USDF Region 2 Dressage Championships, recognized by United States Equestrian Federation, Inc. and the Dressage by the Bay Fall Classic, which will be held from September 9-12.

Dr. Andrew Clark, CEO of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute explained how Hagyard is branching out with its Sport Horse Program, stating, "I think that in reality, if you are going to be in the horse business, you have to be where the horse shows are. We are across the street from a huge horse show schedule at the Kentucky Horse Park and what we have tried to do is take advantage of the team that we have built in the winter to go between Thermal, CA, and Ocala, FL, as well. Most of those horses from Ocala move to Lexington for a while and then some of them ship to Traverse City. We felt that for the continuity of our program, if we could help people with their horses in their winter location and then in their summer locations as well, then we could provide more continuous service and better value to both the client and to the horse."

Hagyard sends its veterinarians to horse shows in Kentucky, Florida, California and Tennessee, as well as Michigan, and Dr. Clark acknowledged how much he enjoys Horse Shows by the Bay. "I have been to Horse Shows by the Bay and I love Traverse City; it is awesome. It reminds me a little bit of Spruce Meadows," Dr. Clark stated. "It is a similar climate and it is just a great place to have a horse show."

For Alex Rheinheimer, who is one of the Festival's owners, having the trusted Hagyard Veterinary Team on site means that she and her partners can sleep at night knowing that all of the horses are in the very best of care. "Dr. Schmitt is excellent - we never have to worry about her expertise. It's very comforting knowing that each year we have the very best in the industry at our finger tips and at a moment's notice. We applaud Hagyard's commitment to being a leader in the Sport Horse medical field."

The 2010 Horse Shows by the Bay Equestrian Festival will be held at the Flintfields Horse Park in Traverse City, MI, beginning July 8 with a week of dressage and running through August 1, 2010, with three weeks of hunter/jumper competition. The hunter/jumper series will feature nearly $400,000 in total prize money in the hunters, jumpers, and equitation. Highlights include the $15,000 Chronicle of the Horse/USHJA International Hunter Derby Classic, World Champion Hunter Rider sanctioning, $5000 Hunter & Jumper Classics and the weekly $30,000 Show Jumping Grand Prix.

For more information about Horse Shows by the Bay, please visit the official website at www.horseshowsbythebay.com or contact Alex Rheinheimer at 561.723.6287. For more information on Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please visit www.hagyard.com.

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Unveils Their New Sport Horse Soundness Facility - 04/28/2010

04/28/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute unveiled their latest Sport Horse Program addition during their sneak preview tours from April 22 - 25, 2010. The innovative Sport Horse Soundness Facility features "state-of-the-art" diagnostic tools, along with quality veterinarians that will provide a dedicated environment within which Hagyard Veterinarians treat joint, muscle, and structural lameness issues in equine athletes. Hagyard is pleased to announce that it is now accepting new clients at the Sport Horse Soundness Facility.

Dr. Andrew Clark, CEO of Hagyard, was excited about the response to the tours of the new facility stating, "Our objective was to notify existing, as well as potential new clients electronically of the tours being offered to view the new addition to our Sport Horse program. This approach proved to be successful in that we hit the right target of people."

The Hagyard Sport Horse Soundness Facility offers veterinarians the ability to examine and diagnose sport horses in a controlled environment. Diagnosing lameness issues can be a difficult task as the patient could require anything from a physical examination, to gait evaluation, to localization with nerve blocks, to diagnostic imaging. The new facility makes it easy for each of these tasks to be completed. Dr. Clark explained, "We have an 80' x 160' covered arena. Essentially it is a covered ring, but it has much different footing than a riding ring, it is much firmer because to look at subtle lameness you need to have very firm footing. We thought that we could have at least two or three horses being worked up in the ring safely at the same time."

He continued, "We also have an area within the facility that allows for horse owners to have their own farrier come in and provide services. If they bring their horse in for a work up, there is place that their own farrier can back up her/his truck, open the doors, crosstie, and have their own area to work. That is nice because the client is not tied down to a specific farrier."

The facility also features a climate controlled exam room, where clientele can bring horses to do blocks or other minor examinations that need to be performed for lameness issues. In addition to the climate controlled exam room, there are also five holding stalls that are available for temporary use after a horse has been blocked and the patient needs a few minutes for the blocks to take effect.

In January of this year, Fraley and Taydus Equine Podiatry began an affiliation with the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute. Dr. Bryan Fraley and Matt Taydus are the head farriers of Fraley and Taydus Equine Podiatry. Their practice will be located in the new facility. We enjoy working together. When we have podiatry work, we refer it to Dr Fraley. This relationship has been very important to us."

With a controlled environment, top equine veterinarians, and a facility that is unmatched in the United States the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute is looking forward to the future of the facility. Dr. Clark explained, "Right now, everybody already has digital ultrasound and x-rays in their trucks, so it is not about having more imaging technology, it is about having a place to do the work. It is a huge difference from a generation ago when you had to go somewhere to get to an x-ray machine and now with the digital machines you do not need that, so this facility is really about a place to do the work and be much more efficient, I think that is the most important factor of this facility."

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute was founded in 1876 and is located in Lexington, Kentucky. The practice located directly across from the Kentucky Horse Park is one of the oldest and largest equine veterinary practices in the world and is known for its excellence in veterinary medicine. The Hagyard Sport Horse Program, a specialized department at the practice, serves the nation's top sport horse athletes and brings the same level of excellent care to high performance horses that the practice has provided for the race horse and breeding industries for decades.

The facility at Hagyard Equine Medical Institute offers 13 Digital Radiology systems, 1.5 Tesla Siemens Open MRI, Nuclear Scintigraphy, a high speed treadmill, an on-site laboratory, an on-site pharmacy, full surgical services, and Hyperbaric Medicine. Hagyard has practiced veterinary medicine for more than 133 years and is currently composed of over 60 experienced veterinarians, with 12 board certifications in specialty areas of Medicine, Surgery, Critical Care, and Theriogenology.

For more information on Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, please go to www.hagyard.com.

Rotavirus ELISAs May Fail to Detect Equine-Specific Rotavirus Infections - 04/27/2010

04/27/2010

In a recent independent study, 14 equine rotavirus infections were missed by a human rotavirus test frequently used to detect rotavirus infection in horses. The rotavirus infections were successfully detected by the IDEXX Equine Diarrhea RealPCR� Panel.

Dr. Nathan Slovis of McGee Medical and Critical Care Center (Hagyard Equine Medical Institute) conducted the research using a subset of samples from a larger validation study of the new equine-specific diarrhea panel from IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.

Study method and results

For the rotavirus study, samples from 35 foals were tested on a human enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) commonly used for rotavirus detection in horses. The samples were also analyzed using the IDEXX Equine Diarrhea RealPCR Panel, which includes a specific test for rotavirus. The PCR tests were performed at IDEXX Reference Laboratories by Dr. Christian Leutenegger.

The PCR panel detected rotavirus in 14 of the samples, while the human ELISA detected no rotavirus infections. The accuracy of the PCR results was confirmed by sequence identification of two genes encoding viral proteins.

According to Dr. Slovis, “We thought the samples were going to be negative on PCR and they turned out to be positive. PCR dominated the testing, compared to the ELISA.”

Undetected rotavirus infections can put other foals at risk

Dr. Slovis emphasizes that missing a rotavirus infection is dangerous because the virus is extremely contagious. “The infection can spread like wildfire. The disease can spread throughout a foaling area in about 24 hours. If you unknowingly send a sick foal home from the clinic, next week you may have 20 foals infected.”

It’s essential to detect infection so that the foal can be treated appropriately. “While the rotavirus infection is rarely fatal, it can make foals very, very sick,” says Dr. Slovis, “and may require administering IV fluids. Treatment is supportive, but must be intensified when rotavirus is the infecting agent.”

Why is a human ELISA used for equine testing?

Dr. Slovis says the human rotavirus ELISA detects type A rotavirus, which is the same class of rotavirus that infects horses. The ELISA is based on a protein that is assumed to be conserved among all type A rotaviruses. That’s why veterinarians have been comfortable using the ELISA to detect equine infections.

Dr. Christian Leutenegger, who ran the samples on the IDEXX Equine Diarrhea RealPCR Panel, explains “It’s obvious that the human rotavirus ELISA had trouble picking up equine-specific rotaviruses. The PCR test uses primers specific to the nucleotide sequence of equine strains and therefore was able to detect the infections.”

When to consider using equine-specific PCR

Dr. Slovis believes veterinarians can continue to trust positive results from the human rotavirus ELISA.

“But if you’re getting negatives on the human rotavirus ELISA in a diarrhea outbreak, consider using the PCR assay,” he advises, “because the PCR test appears to be much more sensitive than the available human ELISA and more specific in the detection of equine rotavirus strains.”

Coinfection considerations

Dr. Leutenegger points out that the PCR panel includes nine additional tests, so it can also be helpful in detecting coinfections. “Rotavirus was significantly associated with coinfection in the larger validation study, with twice as many rotavirus coinfections as monoinfections among the sick foals.”

Veterinarians should consider using the IDEXX Equine Diarrhea RealPCR Panel in place of the human ELISA for undiagnosed diarrhea or as a follow-up whenever results from the human rotavirus ELISA are negative.

“Results from the equine-specific PCR panel are available quickly,” Dr. Leutenegger assures. “Tests are performed Monday through Friday, with results available within 1–3 business days.”

For more information, call IDEXX Reference Laboratories at 1-800-621-8378.

ABOUT THE CONTRIBUTORS

Christian M. Leutenegger, DrVetMed, PhD, FVH, is Regional Head of Molecular Diagnostics for IDEXX Reference Laboratories and directs the IDEXX Molecular Diagnostics Laboratory in Sacramento, California.

Nathan M. Slovis, DVM, DACVIM, CHT, is Director of the McGee Medical and Critical Care Center at the Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Lexington, Kentucky.

Become a fan of Hagyard's on Facebook - 04/13/2010

04/13/2010

Become a fan of Hagyards on Facebook.

Hagyard.com News

2010 Hagyard Cares Benefit Golf Tournament - 08/24/2010

2010 Hagyard Challenge Results - 08/23/2010

Congratulations to Pablo Barrios for winning the 2010 Hagyard Challenge Series Leading Rider Award!!! Congratulations to Lauren Crooks who was Friday nights class winner!!

Markey gala honors horse lover Betsy Fishback - 08/19/2010

Reach Merlene Davis at (859) 231-3218 or 1-800-950-6397, Ext. 3218, or mdavis1@herald-leader.com.

LexArts, Horsemania 2010 at Hagyard Equine - 08/12/2010

Artists: Priscilla Roberts Fallon and Anna Daniel Hall Sponsor: The Employees of Hagyard Equine Medical InstituteLocation: 4250 Iron Works Pike

Dr. Jennifer Feiner VMD of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Becomes 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Quarantine Veterinarian - 08/12/2010

HEMI Invites All Horse Owners to Free Gastric Ulcer Scope Clinic - 07/27/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute, Flex-Tra HA� and Flex-Tra 200� are Proud to Support Para-Equestrian Hart and Chef d'Equipe Ransehousen - 07/15/2010

You are invited to a special educational event! - 07/01/2010

International Symposium on Equine Reproduction presents a complimentary opportunity for horse owners and farm managers interested in the latest findings on Equine Reproduction. - 06/25/2010

Equine Medications and Compounding - 06/25/2010

Understanding Foal Care: Take 2 - 06/25/2010

Understanding Foal Care: Take 2

Marilyn Little-Meredith and Blue Curacao Sped to Victory in $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at Kentucky Spring Classic - 05/21/2010

Pablo Barrios Scores Top Two Spots in $30,000 Hagyard Lexington Classic at Kentucky Spring Horse Show - 05/13/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Recognizes Sponsors of the 2010 $50,000 Leading Rider Award. - 05/13/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Announces 2010 $50,000 Leading Rider Award - 05/11/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Joins the Social Media Network - 05/05/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Returns as Official Veterinarian at Horse Shows by the Bay - 05/04/2010

Hagyard Equine Medical Institute Unveils Their New Sport Horse Soundness Facility - 04/28/2010

Rotavirus ELISAs May Fail to Detect Equine-Specific Rotavirus Infections - 04/27/2010

Study method and results

Undetected rotavirus infections can put other foals at risk

Why is a human ELISA used for equine testing?

When to consider using equine-specific PCR

Coinfection considerations

Become a fan of Hagyard's on Facebook - 04/13/2010

Artists: Priscilla Roberts Fallon and Anna Daniel Hall
Sponsor: The Employees of Hagyard Equine Medical Institute
Location: 4250 Iron Works Pike