Press Release 10/17/2007 #2
Dixie Cup Funds Vet Treatment Area at GA Ag Equine Impound Facility
Money from The Dixie Cup Spring Classic Horse Show is paying for a veterinary treatment area at the Georgia Department of Agriculture’s equine impound facility in Decatur.
The $3,000 donation from The Dixie Cup has allowed completion of the first phase with the second phase to be completed in the near future. The VTA will provide an area where critically ill horses can be more appropriately treated.
“Treating and caring for equine not only will be easier in this area, but it will be safer for the animals and the staff tending to them,” said Tommy Irvin, Georgia Department of Agriculture commissioner.
“This addition improves our Decatur facility and our overall ability to rehabilitate abused and neglected equine in our care,” Irvin said.
A metal stock to restrain and secure the animals for treatment has been installed and the floor is concrete with rubber matting. A sunken portion of the floor accommodates the electronic scales which are neatly hidden from view. “We now have the capability to record accurate weights on the animals, and without them even knowing it,” said Irvin. Future plans for equipping the area include installing a hoist system, utility sink, improved lighting, and enhanced drainage.
“We’re looking for funding to complete the third and final phase of the project, which will include a hoist to move a downed animal between a stall and the treatment area,” Irvin said.
Anyone who would like to contribute to the equine impound and rehabilitation program should send their checks to
Georgia Department of Agriculture, Room 210
19 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW
Atlanta, Georgia 30334
Please make checks payable to the Georgia Department of Agriculture and write “Equine Impound Fund” in the memo line.
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