Show Managers and Athletes Rally in Support of Heart Equine Horse Ambulance
Equestrian News Release
Wellington, FL- March 4, 2006 – Fortunately, it is a rare occurrence that horses are physically debilitated or die during show jumping competitions. Although accidents are few and far between, this loss strikes horrible fear in the equestrian community. Besides the obvious heartbreak to the riders, the public observing the incident is forever impacted by how the care of the horse is handled in this situation.
It has become a priority to many show managers that equine rescue is available 24 hours a day at their venues. You might have noticed the presence of the horse ambulance and attendants at this Winter Equestrian Festival. Stadium Jumping President, Inc. Gene Mische, as well as horseshow managers Bob Johnson of the Charlotte Jumper Classic, Tony Hitchcock organizer of The Hampton Classic and Dick Feldman from the LPHS have all hired the HEART ambulance to be at their large competitions.
The HEART Equine Ambulance became a nonprofit organization in 2000. It has been run by Jill Parsons and nurtured along by a dedicated group of top equestrians. The ambulance is funded by generous donation and fund-raising events. Sweely Holdings Inc. donated the new ambulance and truck. They also have given of their time and farm to hold crucial fundraising events. Robin Sweely is the President, and is a driving force of the organization.
Tony Hitchcock was instrumental in the creation of HEART, by hiring the ambulance for the Hampton Classic, and serving as an active member of the Board of Directors. Steve and Debbie Stephens donated the yellow and red HEART jump that is used on the main jumping field in Palm Beach. Stadium Jumping, Inc. has been the largest supporter of the ambulance, having it at all of their main events.
There are countless reasons to have a horse ambulance at shows. Most exhibitors are unaware that transport is available to them 24 hours. If a horse is sick in the night HEART will transport it to a clinic. The response time is usually under 30 minutes and can be life saving to competitors who travel commercially and do not have immediate help.
The veterinarians benefit from the assistance of trained HEART staff in crisis situations. They aid in the rapid on-site response to accidents that may prevent any further injury to the horses.
The image of show jumping benefits from HEART, as does the dignity of the injured animals. The show managers that have an equine ambulance on site should be commended. The precaution sends a strong message to exhibitors that they remember why we are all here: the horse.
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