LAWRENCE — Several local equine specialists will be featured during a panel discussion on “Keeping Your Senior Horse Mobile” at the Senior Horse Symposium March 21 at the Van Buren Conference Center in Lawrence, Michigan.

DVM Jessica Balsis of Two by Two Animal Hospital in Berrien Springs, Blackmith Paul Tucker of Cassopolis and Massage Therapist Christy LaPorte of Niles will lead a 6 :30 p.m. panel.  It will cover things like exercise, treatments and shoeing that help the older horse remain active.

Balsis, who has a special interest in equine lameness, graduated from Michigan State University with her DVM in 2008.  She also teaches a pre-veterinary course at Andrews University and is very active showing her champion Morgan horses.

Tucker is the owner of Tucker’s Farrier Service. He specializes in corrective shoeing – including Navicular and Laminitis work.

LaPorte, who owns CJs Bodywork Therapy for Equines & Canines regularly hosts equine massage therapy clinics throughout lower Michigan and northern Indiana.  She has two certificates in Equine Sports Therapy and has more than 150 active clients in southwest Michigan.  She also continues to show horses.

Earlier in the evening Dr. Rick Balsbaugh, of ADM Feeds, will discuss “Feeding the Senior Horse.” He will address the audience at 5:30 p.m.

The last panel of the evening starts at 7:30 p.m.  It will feature Karen Waite, Michigan State University Equine Extension Specialist and horse show judge, and amateur competitor Laurie Cerny (Paw Paw), who has successfully shown several senior horses.  They will cover “Showing & Competing with an Equine Senior Horse.”

There will also be several drawings during the evening for free door prizes.

Fedore Veterinary Services of Cassopolis, The Animated Horse of Holland, and Family Fare are helping to sponsor the evening.

The symposium is free to attend, but an RSVP is recommended to ensure a seat.  Otherwise, standing room will be available.

Call (269) 657-3842 to reserve a seat, or for more information.