Jill MedingerPalm Beach Equine Clinic (PBEC), one of the world’s foremost equine veterinary clinics, began working with nearby Vinceremos Therapeutic Riding Center (VTRC) more than 10 years ago. Founded in 1982 by Executive Director Ruth Menor, Vinceremos serves people with physical, cognitive, and emotional disabilities of all ages in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Through an agreement between PBEC President Dr. Scott Swerdlin and Vinceremos Chief Operating Officer Susan Guinan, PBEC took on the task of providing health care for more than 20 therapy horses stabled at VTRC and has been doing so pro bono for more than 10 years.
PBEC has always made giving back to the community part of its company mission. “Supporting our community and organizations such as Vinceremos are vital to our way of business,” said PBEC President Dr. Scott Swerdlin. “Our philosophy is that we are extremely fortunate to be a part of this community and that we ought to pay it forward. Vinceremos is an exceptional organization. There is nothing that you can possibly do that will make you feel better than spending time at Vinceremos and being involved in what they do to help the community.”
Guinan noted, “The Vinceremos horses come from many different backgrounds. Some have had careers in the show ring, on a ranch, or as prized family members. A donor’s decision to share their special horses with the community through a donation to Vinceremos is made easier knowing that they will receive the care of Palm Beach Equine’s expert staff of veterinarians and Dr. Greenfield Davis. This generous support gives the Vinceremos horses the best care while allowing precious funds to be focused on programming to support our community’s needs.”
Dr. Janet Greenfield Davis was in her second year at PBEC when she became the main veterinarian to work with the Vinceremos horses. Dr. Greenfield Davis provides routine care, and the horses of VTRC also have fitness programs and holistic medicine for maintenance.
Caring for the horses at VTRC has been a rewarding experience for her. She credits her time there in developing her veterinary skills and providing an excellent education as well.
“I have had the benefit of seeing a herd of horses change and grow, learning what works for therapy and what doesn’t,” she said. “I have seen kids who barely speak open up and watched people who could barely hold the reins learn to ride independently. The horses have become my own, and the staff is my extended family. It is hard to pinpoint the best part of 10 years. I have enjoyed it all.”