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Breed:
Sex:
Occuption:
Stabled in:
Owner:
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Thoroughbred
Gelding
Racehorse
Mount Sterling, OH
Dan Smucker
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Avies Partner
was bred in Canada. His first start as a racehorse was at Woodbine
Racetrack in Toronto, where he finished sixth. Following two years
at the track, his career was less than spectacular. He had 21
starts, with two wins, two seconds and three third place finishes.
At age 5, he was sold to Dan Smucker in Ohio where his race record
continued to be less than promising.
Smucker thought
a lot of the horse, a tall gray with a long stride and a kind
disposition. But he couldn't figure out what was wrong. Avies
Partner had shown some ability -- enough to win some races earlier
in his career -- and now he cold barely make the grade.
Avies Partner
did not have any obvious physical problems. His legs were sound
and his lungs were fine. Be he was very thin, had a poor appetite,
and appeared lethargic during race conditions. Suspecting ulcers
might be the problem, Smucker's veterinarian tried various ulcer
treatments, but saw no apparent improvement.
At about that
time, Smucker heard that horses were being sought for a clinical
field trial studying a new anti-ulcer medication. He contacted
Dr. William Bernard, the veterinarian who was conducting the study.
To participate in the program, horses had to be positively diagnosed
with stomach ulcers. Avies partner was scoped and many severe
ulcers were found. He was accepted into the trial and was moved
to the controlled training center in Lexington, KY.
Avies Partner
received the new anti-ulcer medication, GASTROGARD (omeprazole).
Following the trial and the treatment and healing of his ulcers,
Avies Partner went back to the races. He was eating better, put
on weight, and was bright and alert. "He looked good and began
to act better. He was energetic and enthusiastic," said Smucker.
