What to Know About Your Equine Emergency Veterinarians
Here’s what we want you to know about the Oakhurst Equine Veterinary Services emergency team — the challenges they face, the critical care they provide, and how you can best support your horse and your veterinarian during urgent situations.
Equine emergencies are stressful for everyone involved — especially you and your horse — but they’re also intense and emotional for the veterinary team working to help. A little patience and kindness go a long way. We’re in this together, and your partnership matters.
We’re Trained for Emergencies, but Every Case is Different: Our veterinarians are experienced in managing a wide range of equine emergency cases. But every horse, injury, and situation is unique. Emergencies require quick assessments, tough decisions, and prioritizing your horse’s needs in the moment. Trust that your vet is working toward the best possible outcome — every time.
The Job is Physically and Mentally Demanding: Equine emergency calls often come after hours — late nights, weekends, holidays — and many times after we’ve already worked a full day. These cases are physically tough, emotionally draining, and mentally demanding. But our team shows up because we truly care about your horse, your family, and this profession.
Communication is Critical: In a crisis, clear communication helps us help you. Know your horse’s medical history, medications, and vaccination status. Be honest about what you’re seeing and your comfort level with handling the situation. Don’t hesitate to ask questions — our job is to ensure you understand the situation and the next steps.
Have an Emergency Plan: Emergencies happen fast — preparation is key. Have your horse trailer ready, know how to contact us after hours, and be familiar with advanced equine teaching or speciality hospitals if referral is necessary. When one of our veterinarians recommends a referral, it’s because your horse needs care only a referral hospital can provide.
Some Days Are Overwhelming: And We May Not Be Able to See Every Case: While we do everything possible to respond quickly, there are rare occasions when multiple emergencies come in at once and we may not be able to reach every patient on the same day. In those moments, we will communicate openly, help guide you toward other resources or hospitals if needed, and work to prioritize cases based on urgency. Please know it’s never a decision we take lightly.
We’re Here Because We Care: Despite the challenges, emergency equine medicine is incredibly rewarding. We show up because we care deeply — about horses, about you, and about seeing your horse through the toughest moments. Those middle-of-the-night saves and hard-won recoveries are why we do what we do.
Final Thoughts: Your horse’s health and safety are always our top priority. Having a plan, knowing who to call, and trusting your equine vet team makes a difference when emergencies strike. Stay prepared, stay calm, and remember — you’re never alone in these moments. Oakhurst Equine is here for you.
Our rotating emergency veterinarians include Dr.Flynn Magorian, Dr. Tara O'Brien, Dr. Sylvia Ouellette, and Dr. Owen Schumacher — all experienced in handling the most urgent equine cases.
For Emergencies: 📞 503-554-0227 — Press 9 after hours. Oakhurst Equine Veterinary Services in Newberg, OR. Your trusted partner in equine emergency care and support.