Churchill Downs Gives Central High School Pre-Veterinary Students an Inside Look at Equine Medicine through Critter Fixers Vet for a Day Program

LOUISVILLE, KY., (November 15, 2023) – Churchill Downs Racetrack (Churchill Downs) hosted 20 pre-veterinary students from Louisville’s Central High School as part of the Critter Fixers Vet for a Day program, to get an inside look at the world of Thoroughbred medicine on and off the track. Students were given an introduction to equine medicine with a behind the scenes tour of the Churchill Downs Equine Medical Center by Churchill Downs Incorporated’s (CDI) Equine Medical Director, Dr. Will Farmer. During their visit, students learned more about the historic racetrack, equine anatomy and the vital role veterinarians play in horseracing at Churchill Downs and racetracks across the United States.

Students were also given the chance to learn more about Thoroughbred Aftercare by visiting CDI Aftercare partner, Second Stride at Chorleywood Farm. During their visit, Thoroughbred Ambassador and 2011 Kentucky Derby participant Twinspired, allowed for an up-close look at a retired equine athlete. Dr. James Beckman, veterinarian for Second Stride, utilized Twinspired to illustrate how large animal veterinarians take x-rays, evaluate eye health and listen for heart health.

“We were thrilled to bring students from Central High School’s Veterinary Science program to Churchill Downs to learn about equine medicine from Dr. Farmer and to observe the Thoroughbreds in action on the track.” said Corlice Atkins, Executive Director for Critter Fixers Vet for a Day. “Although we’ve visited hospitals, schools and zoos across the country, we have never had the opportunity to learn from equine veterinarians, or to get up close and personal with horses. Our participants and staff had an amazing time and we can’t wait to do it again!”

The Critter Fixers Vet for a Day program creates a fun-filled, informative experience for every student. The program visits various cities, incorporating a wide variety of animal health professionals to speak about their career paths and introduce touchpoints into the professional world of veterinary medicine. Each student who participates is given a hands-on experience with activities ranging from observing lab treatments and performing lab testing to grooming the animal ambassadors and checking basic animal vitals. The program was created by Dr. Terrence Ferguson and Dr. Vernard Hodges, stars of Critter Fixers: Country Vets television show to support their belief that early introduction of veterinary medicine to children will foster more interest in the career path across young people of all backgrounds.

“The best part of my job is introducing young people to horseracing!” said Cathy Shircliff, Director of Equine Industry Relations for CDI. “The students of Central High School’s pre-veterinary program asked insightful questions and it was a treat to see them get hands-on experience with Second Stride Ambassador, Twinspired. On behalf of Churchill Downs Incorporated, I am so grateful to Critter Fixers Vet for a Day for allowing us the opportunity to host these future veterinarians and to Dr. Farmer and Dr. Beckman for showcasing different avenues of equine medicine.”

To learn more about Critter Fixers Vet for a Day program and how your student can apply, visit: https://www.cfvetforaday.com/.