Leaving after ride

["RONALD SANCHES" <ronbarbara@thegrid.net>]

I am sure that Angee's post about a horse fatality post ride (and after
management and vet staff had left) is not the first; however, I strongly
support riders remaining long enough after the ride to really ensure that
their horses are doing all the right things.
Here at our Lakeside Classic (held April l8th) the name of our local
veterinarian (located a 20-minute drive from base camp) and his telephone #
are placed in riders' packets.  He has a full service clinic and is
equipped to handle any emergencies and surgeries.
At the ride meeting on Friday night, the nearest pay phone is pointed out
to all riders.
Some riders travel long enough distances, that they remain overnight after
the ride.  Two years ago, one rider who chose to camp Sat. night also,
checked on her horse at 
midnight, and consequently hauled him to the clinic where he remained for 3
days after
treatment.  We are fortunate in our area to have a clinic close by and this
is not always possible is more remote areas; however, as ride managers, my
husband and I sleep     better when the ride is over knowing that emergency
care is readily available.
Barbara Sanches
Pacific South Region