Wellington, FL – July 16, 2013 – James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine provides federally required CEM testing for the importation of mares and stallions from Europe. The requirement for stallions is that they breed two test mares each by live cover. Then, the bred mares must be tested and found negative for CEM.

With over 200 international sport horses going through Wellington Quarantine each year, Lala must have enough mares on hand to provide the process required by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In fulfilling the requirements of the quarantine, Lala also has an opportunity to give unwanted horses a good home.

“I really like our mares and we give them a great home,” said Lala. “It’s important that they are safe for the stallions – that is our greatest concern.  So, for a mare to be useful, she has to have a good nature. They should be sturdy and on the smaller side.”

“Some of our mares were donated by private people,” he continued. “Either they were lame or not useful, or they rescued them and they don’t want them anymore or they couldn’t afford them anymore. Maybe they were using the mare as a broodmare and breeding didn’t make sense any more. When this happens, they give them to me. They may check in on them, but they sign them over to me.”

Lala also works with several rescue organizations to find the right mares, including South Florida SPCA, Elite Rescue and Florida TRAC Thoroughbred Retirement and Adoptive Care Program.

“We have gotten a bunch of mares from the SPCA down in Hialeah and other rescues,” Lala said. “They are all good to work with. Lisa Wagner at SPCA does an incredible job. The horses all arrive looking good, with front shoes and up to date on worming and vaccinations. She genuinely cares about the horses; she’s selective about their placement. The majority of the horses have worked out. Any that don’t work out she will always take back.”

Lala gives a second chance to mares whose future is questionable or who might otherwise be euthanized. His program gives them a new purpose and a home with quality care.

“I have one Pinto mare I rescued just because I thought she was cute,” he said. “She is totally useless to me but she is so cute. We have one Thoroughbred – a 3-year-old with the most crooked leg I’ve ever seen. The majority of breeders would have put her to sleep. She is the one of the sweetest horses. I love her. I am so pleased that I could give her a second chance. She is a very good test mare.”

Lala works closely with Dr. Newkirk for all the breeding and testing and the protocol is regulated by a State of Florida Department of Agriculture veterinarian.

“I appreciate Dr. Newkirk’s extensive knowledge of reproduction and particularly live breeding. She is keenly aware of the risks involved. We work closely together to create an environment where the stallions, mares and handlers are as safe as possible.”

Lala is a man with a big heart who loves his horses. He learned firsthand that he would rather be resourceful and search for alternatives than end the life of one of his mares.

“A few years back I took in one that just didn’t work out as a test mare. She was very lame. I searched for months to find her a new home. I felt there was no option but to euthanize her. I was in the office crying as the killer truck was on the way. I couldn’t stand it. I called the truck and stopped it. I reached out again and this time was able to find her a home as a broodmare in Alabama.”

The mares are an integral part of the quarantine operation. Lala cares for the quiet, reliable mares season after season because they are an important part of the safety of the quarantined stallions. Currently he has nearly 20 mares. Lala is also interested in taking in mares that could potentially be suitable for riding.

“We have the most beautiful mare that a family gave us, hoping one day she’ll be sound again to be useful,” he said. “That’s where we step in. We can give these horses a home for life.”

About James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine

James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine, LLC is recognized as South Florida’s top CEM quarantine. Conveniently located just minutes from the Winter Equestrian Festival show grounds, the facility is owned and operated by James Lala, one of the country’s leading riders and trainers.

Lala’s facility is known for being an ultra-safe, peaceful environment with fantastic amenities like top-of the-line GGT footing. It is far enough away from the hustle and bustle of the show grounds but close enough to be convenient without a long ride down a bumpy and dusty road.

Now offering expanded services, Lala is accepting quality young horses in training, short or long-term stall rental, lay-up and rehabilitation horses, sale horses and show horses. He is also accepting quiet and accommodating mares to serve as quarantine test mares. Lala has several lovely horses for customer lessons and for clients in need of supplemental riding to stay in condition. In addition, ring and facility rental is available.

For more information about James Lala’s Wellington Quarantine:
www.jameslalaquarantine.com/
(561) 906-6668
james@jameslalaquarantine.com

Carrie Wirth for Phelps Media Group, Inc. International

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