Bluegrass Equine Surgery Now Open in Versailles

Bluegrass Equine Surgery has opened at 3550 Lexington Road in Versailles, Kentucky. BES is a comprehensive, world-class surgical and recovery facility with onsite diagnostics, imaging, pharmacy, and lab access, to care for any equine need on or off the farm. BES is led by Woodford County native and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine W. True Baker, as a state-of-the-art hospital dedicated to the care of the developing and active equine athlete. BES is part of a growing investment in the Kentucky equine industry by its parent company, PetVet Care Centers of Westport, Conn. In addition to expanding its footprint with BES, PetVet and Hagyard Equine Medical Institute of Lexington have partnered with Churchill Downs to install its first equine positron emission tomography scan machine at the medical center in the stable area. Anthony Loomis, DVM and Chief Medical Officer of PetVet, noted the company's overall commitment to the Kentucky equine Industry. "We are passionate about all animals at PetVet," Dr. Loomis said. "We recognize Kentucky's unique connection to the equine industry and we want to be leaders in that industry. Our addition of Bluegrass Equine Surgery is another step, following the acquisition of successful practices like Hagyard and our new partnership with historic Churchill Downs. This allows us to ensure we bring the right care to all of our equine communities." Dr. Baker added, "This new hospital's values are based on the work ethic and horsemanship I learned growing up in the industry. Our philosophy has always been to work hard, treat people fairly, and above all, do what's best for the horse." Dr. Baker graduated with honors from the prestigious veterinary program at Auburn University in 2006. He completed his surgical residency at Peterson and Smith Equine Hospital in Ocala, Fla. He joined Woodford Equine in 2010, a practice owned by his father, Bill Baker DVM, before joining Hagyard Equine Medical Institute in 2013. "At Bluegrass, we'll take the best practices we've gained from working with industry leaders at Woodford Equine, Peterson and Smith, and Hagyard Equine and build something from those great influences," said Dr. Baker, citing efficient processes and procedures as well as an emphasis on customer service. "With the partnership of PetVet and Hagyard Pharmacy, we are expanding the footprint of the hospital my father built." Dr. Baker is a regular part of Thoroughbred sales and specializes in orthopedic, conformational, and upper airway surgeries. He is a published researcher on surgical management of angular limb deformities, as well as equine colic. He is performing ongoing research into the effects of juvenile injuries on racing performance. "When I started thinking about a new hospital, I immediately knew who I wanted on the team. I've been fortunate enough to put together a stellar group," said Dr. Baker. The team compliments his own equine expertise as veterinarians and specialists who ensure the best care is available for all racehorses, from those in training and active competition to those who have retired, in all aspects ranging from traditional veterinary to alternative, holistic therapies and support treatment. Lauren Javernick DVM has joined the practice as head of Ambulatory Services. In addition to her extensive background in equine reproduction and herd health, she brings deep expertise in Chinese medicine and acupuncture. "I'm excited to join the practice and help develop a team that works together to provide excellent care and service for our clients," Dr. Javernick said, adding that the two other BES veterinarians "help us greatly toward that goal." They are Jessica Thornton DVM, who specializes in equine reproduction and neonate medicine as well as herd health, and Kristen Near VMD, who was the resident vet on a large horse farm and has experience in all aspects of the Thoroughbred industry. Both have joined BES as Ambulatory Care veterinarians.