New Centre Will Improve Health and Welfare of Equine Athletes
June 07, 2012 - News Release
The University of Guelph today celebrated the grand opening of a new health-care facility for equine athletes.
The Equine Sports Medicine and Reproduction Centre (ESMRC) will improve the quality of life and performance of horses through health care, education and research. Located at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) but separate from the main hospital, the ESMRC offers expert care in equine sports medicine, lameness evaluation and treatment, reproduction services and diagnostic imaging.
“The OVC has been Canada’s leader in equine health care and research since the college was founded in Toronto in 1862,” said University of Guelph president Alastair Summerlee. “As we celebrate the OVC’s 150th anniversary year, I am delighted to announce the opening of the ESMRC. The new facilities and the work that goes on here will help ensure that Ontario’s equine industry continues to grow and prosper.”
Construction of the ESMRC is supported by private donations and bequests, and builds on earlier industry and government research investments.
The centre includes a new 70- by 140-foot exercise arena for evaluation of horses with lameness or other performance issues. Existing barn and stable areas have been upgraded and four new examination rooms have been added, including a radiology exam room and ultrasound treatment/exam room.
Through the ESMRC, top specialists will offer advanced lameness evaluation and therapies; state-of-the art diagnostic equipment for cardiopulmonary, orthopedic and other performance-limiting conditions; and sophisticated reproductive services such as fertility evaluation, artificial insemination and embryo transfer.
“The ESMRC will serve the needs of referring veterinarians, horse owners and trainers involved in Ontario’s world-class horse racing and equestrian sectors,” said Elizabeth Stone, OVC dean. “It expands the scope of OVC’s programs in equine health care and research, and builds upon the University’s proud legacy of improving the lives of horses through partnerships with stakeholders within the equine industry and through Equine Guelph. Thank you to all our donors and supporters who have helped us carry on this important work.
“Establishing the ESMRC also reflects the importance of horses in people’s lives and our commitment as veterinarians to advancing the health and well-being of all species. I look forward to watching the ESMRC grow and develop programs that support horses and horse owners across Ontario and beyond.”
For more information, contact Barry Gunn at 519-824-4120, Ext. 54414, or bagunn@uoguelph.ca.
