Name: KAEP & KTFMC October Membership Meeting
Start: 2025-10-07T18:00:00-04:00
Location: The Manchester Reserve

The Kentucky veterinary and Thoroughbred communities have experienced heartbreaking loss as professionals in both fields have opted to end their lives rather than reach out for help. These tragedies, which have had ramifications across the industry, have shone a painful light on the mental health challenges faced by those working in such high-pressure environments.
The Kentucky Association of Equine Practitioners, in conjunction with the Kentucky Thoroughbred Farm Managers’ Club, will host a meeting focused on mental health and resiliency in the equine industry and how it is being addressed on Tuesday, October 7, from 6 to 9 p.m. at The Manchester Reserve in the Distillery District in Lexington, Kentucky.
Topics addressed will include stress management, identifying signs of mental distress, how to support those in need and navigating the stigma surrounding mental health in the industry.
The event is designed for all equine industry professionals, farm managers, veterinarians, grooms, veterinary technicians, riders, trainers and support staff. Attendees will learn about and gain access to a variety of resources, from confidential counseling services to crisis help lines.
The panel will feature a diverse group of experts, including licensed therapists, certified equine-assisted psychotherapy specialists, and veteran equine professionals who have navigated these challenges firsthand. Panelists include:
Panelists include:
✔️Blake Jones, PhD, LCSW
✔️Christian Countzler
✔️Betsy Charles, DVM, MA,
🎟️Tickets are $40 for KAEP/KTFMC members and $45 for non-KAEP/KTFMC members.
Buy tickets here: ktfmc.org/event/kaep-ktfmc-october-membership-meeting
Questions? Email [email protected]