Upon learning of the deaths of 21 polo ponies from the Lechuza Caracas team, employees at Franck’s Pharmacy in Ocala, Fla., initiated an internal investigation. They stated that Dr. James Belden, a veterinarian for Lechuza Caracas, had ordered a medication based on his prescription from the pharmacy.
They “concluded that the strength of an ingredient in the medication was incorrect. We will cooperate fully with the authorities as they continue their investigation,” read a statement issued by Franck’s Pharmacy’s chief operations officer, Jennifer Beckett, on April 23. The statement did not reveal which ingredient was affected.
“We extend our most sincere condolences to the horses’ owners, the Lechuza Polo team and the members of the U.S. Polo Association. We share their grief and sadness.”
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In an article in the Palm Beach Post, it also appears that Lechuza patron Victor Vargas may be seeking legal recourse against team vet Dr. Belden.
