KENNETT SQUARE, Pa. — Members of the Dream Riders 4-H Club of Queen Anne’s County traveled to Kennett Square on June 23 to tour New Bolton Center, one of the nation’s leading large-animal and equine veterinary medical facilities.
Located about a 1½-hour drive from Centreville, New Bolton Center is part of the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Veterinary Medicine.
The group was greeted by certified veterinary technician Jennifer Macomber, who has worked at New Bolton Center for the past 20 years. Among the facility’s most well-known patients was 2006 Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro, who shattered his leg in three places during the Preakness Stakes while attempting to capture the second leg of horse racing’s Triple Crown. Barbaro was transported to New Bolton Center for treatment.
New Bolton Center includes more than 90 stalls and features state-of-the-art equipment used in the care of large animals. During the tour, club members visited the medical facility, passed a surgical suite where an operation was underway and viewed a rehabilitation pool with a floating raft used to aid horses during recovery.
Operating room nurse Mary Lou Rosazza, who has worked at New Bolton Center for 40 years, stepped out briefly to greet the group.
“I grew as a member of 4-H when I was your age! Thank you for coming to see New Bolton,” Rosazza said. “Understand, education will set you free! Get the best education you can that will serve you for all your life.”
Rosazza told the group she began her career at New Bolton Center as a member of the barn crew before earning her veterinary nursing degree. She said she has enjoyed serving at the facility throughout her career.
With support from Kent Island Elks Lodge 2576 in Stevensville, Dream Riders 4-H Club President Chase Redding presented Macomber with a $1,000 donation to recognize the center for the services it provides. The donation came from the Elks, which supports educational opportunities for youth participating in registered 501©(3) organizations, including 4-H. The organization viewed the field trip as an opportunity to expand members’ education while exposing them to possible careers in equine medicine.
Dr. Kara Brown, a New Bolton Center veterinarian and assistant professor of equine sports medicine and rehabilitation, also spoke with club members about horse injuries and answered their questions.
Following the visit, New Bolton Center staff issued a statement thanking the group for its donation.
“We are deeply grateful for the support and for the inspiring commitment shown to animal care and their community,” the statement said.