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Riding for Therapy

Equine-Assisted Activities Offer Heartfelt Help for Vets, Children with Special Needs by Mary Toothman At TiAnViCa Riding Academy, more than a dozen horses are on hand to allow people to ride — and heal. Sara Meadows, executive director and co-founder of TiAnViCa Riding Academy, says horseback riding for people with special needs has been offered…
Pop Quiz: Diabetes and Your Feet

Nearly ten percent of the U.S. population suffers from diabetes, and it’s the seventh leading cause of death. However, loss of life is not the only worry with diabetes. Loss of limbs, especially feet, is a real danger when diabetic neuropathy sets in. Test your knowledge of diabetes and foot care, and learn how to…
Meet the 2018 FVMA Veterinarian of the Year, Dr. Mitsie Vargas

by J.P. SMITH To be a hero it’s generally understood that a quality characteristic would be facing fears and the consequent bravery necessary for saving people, and in this case, beloved pets. Perhaps, though, it doesn’t take more than imagination to be a hero. For veterinarian Dr. Mitsie Vargas, a quote she likes by Albert…

Editor’s Dose: Something a summer vacation should never be without

With four young, very excitable (and sometimes accident-prone) children, there is one thing that we never leave home without, especially when going on vacation: the first aid kit! Last year, we enjoyed having a “staycation” and decided to visit some of the theme parks in Central Florida. And by the way, Legoland is a blast…
Healthy Cook: Dad’s special dinner, made healthier

Here we go again. It’s Father’s day. A tie he won’t wear? A fishing lure he probably won’t have time to use? A 6-pack of imported beer? Getting something for Dad is tough enough, but the more Father’s days under his belt combined with the number of children for which he is father too (who…
PCMA Letter: Part of the responsibility of being a father

As doctors and parents, this edition of Central Florida Health News hits very close to home for many of us at the Polk County Medical Association (PCMA). One of the features in this edition talks about how regular health screenings for men are an essential part of living a longer, healthier life. I was honored…