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Ocala, FL (July 9, 2012) –With record high temperatures across the United States and horse owners scrambling to keep their equines cool and healthy, The Sanctuary Equine Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation Center in Ocala is a perfect oasis.  The Sanctuary is presenting “Beat the Heatand Basic First Aid,” a seminar on keeping your horse healthy and comfortable during the sweltering summer months. Featuring Dr. Amanda House, DVM, DACVIM, the seminar will include a rundown of basic first aid supplies and procedures, tips for beating the heat, and an update on Pigeon Fever, a bacterial infection affecting horses in the Florida panhandle.

The seminar will take place Thursday, July 26th at The Sanctuary’s Ocala campus.  Dr. House will outline the importance of keeping horses cool, and the effects that the heat has on their systems and performance.  In addition, she will highlight warning signs of heat stroke or exhaustion, and specify when a veterinarian should be called.  Dr. House’spresentation will begin at 5:45, with refreshments served at 5:30.

The seminar willinclude a special update on the Pigeon Fever outbreak in the Floridapan handle.  Also called Colorado Strangles or Dryland Distemper, the bacterial infection is highly contagious but rarely fatal.  Named for the large abscesses that normally form in the chest and abdomen of the horse, which creates a ‘pigeon breasted’ appearance, pigeon fever is typically found in hot, dry climates such as California and Texas. A recent bout of confirmed cases in Florida, including two in Marion county, are a cause for concern among Florida horse owners.  The seminar update will identify the causes and symptoms as well as how to prevent infection.

The Sanctuary has built a solid reputation on their ability to condition and rehabilitate equines of all disciplines, and is dedicated to providing the equestrian community. “We are always looking for new ways to benefit our community and clients with information, services, and seminars,” said Brenda McDuffee, General Manager of The Sancuary.  “The “Beat the Heat” seminar touches on an important part of successfully keeping horses in Florida.  At The Sanctuary we strive to provide the best resources for horses and other animals, from educational seminars to world-class facilities and treatments. Our philosophy of preventative rehab, or ‘prehab,’ is especially important for horses that are actively competing or racing and helps keep them in top form while preventing injury.  Allof our therapies are based on methods used for human rehabilitation. Just like human athletes who work hard to condition their bodies or strive to recover from injuries, our horses deserve to be in the best condition so that they can compete at the top of their game.”

For more information and to RSVP to “Beat the Heat and Basic First Aid,” contact The Sanctuary at 352-369-HEAL. For more information on The Sanctuary visit www.thesanctuaryequinerehab.com.