To the Editor:

PEER (Polk Equine Emergency Rescue) would like to express our appreciation to the Bulletin for all the information shared with the community about our new ambulance.

Our new trailer arrived from the factory two days before Steeplechase day and was checked out by Larry Stotts capable crew.

Those of you, who attended the races, saw our ambulance there for any emergency. We were called twice. Thanks to the quick thinking of PEER driver, Arthur Bourbeau, requesting ice from the crowd, and the very professional services of Dr. Ann Baskett and Dr. Bill Hay, the stricken collapsed horse was revived and delivered back to his own trailer. &bsp;

A happy ending.

Tryon Riding and Hunt Club then sent the Horse Ambulance for a victory lap around the course.

PEER has been nine years in the making. We are here to serve all horse and large animal emergencies, working closely with the vets. As a horse owner and rider myself, it gives me much comfort to know there is such a professional service available. &bsp;

As a mother of four, I prayed I would never need to call 911, but the assurance I could made me grateful. Our hope is that every horse owner will never need to call us, but we are ready to serve whenever your 911 call comes through.

Dee Black, PEER Community Relations Vice President