I visited Dr. Laura Molony at the Georgia Equine Veterinary Hospital that is the only private practice surgical equine hospital in Georgia and does a lot of work with local horse rescues. I enjoyed looking at the operating rooms for the horses and hearing how they are anesthetized.
What do you like about horses and when did you know you wanted to work with them?
I have loved horses since I was 5 years old. They are magnificent, noble, friendly creatures and fun to ride. I was allowed to take riding lessons when I was in 7th grade on condition I kept my grades up.
What do horses usually come to you for or do you usually go out to them?
We go out to the horses for routine work, regular checkups, dental work and vaccines. Horses come to us for surgery, especially colic. We are the only private equine surgical hospital in the state and many critical cases come to us for treatment that would not survive a 2+ hour trip to the UGA facility.
What is the most difficult problem you face with horses.
The hardest thing is euthanizing an animal. I have been in practice for over 20 years and believe me, it does not get easier over time.
What is a story you like to tell about your job?
We see all sorts of situations but one that was quite a challenge was a horse that fell into an empty swimming pool. The pool had a ladder but no steps. We had to build steps with hay bales and guide the horse up and out.
What problems do you see with rescue horses?
Most of the time we help with weight issues, also chronic pain. Horse rescues take horses from abusive situations. Also horses that have been dumped, or are owner surrenders or just can’t do their jobs anymore.
What would you like people to know about you?
We have a wonderful group of caring people and specialists that no other practice has in Georgia other than at UGA. We help local vets, rescues and other people.
What is the best part of your job?
Developing relationships with our clients and being a part of their passion for horses.