Effective management of racetrack emergencies is dependent on preplanning before the first horse leaves its stall, according to Mary Scollay-Ward, DVM, equine medical director for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, who spoke at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif. Preparation includes understanding the nature of racing emergencies along with an assessment on how to maximize available resources. Venue-specific concerns should be identified, as every situation is unique, and Scollay-Ward urged on-track veterinarians to develop team proficiency by collaborating on duties and establishing relationships prior to the need for implementing emergency procedures.