Residents raise concerns about horse embryo transfer facility conditions

Residents raise concerns about horse embryo transfer facility conditions

OCALA, Fla. (WCJB) -Several people expressed concern at a Marion County Commission meeting about conditions at a horse embryo transfer facility.

People spoke to the Marion County Board of County Commissioners to raise concerns about the cleanliness of the horses’ living areas, the possibility of disease and the facility’s past.

A neighbor and a veterinary professional both said they are concerned about the well-being of the horses.

“I’m really concerned about the condition of the animals that are being kept in this farm that they’re bringing up today,” said Stacy Furgang, a veterinarian. “Not only are the conditions deplorable and the welfare of these horses set in this, but the welfare of the horses and the greater population of the L.A. Marion County and the state of Florida are at risk.”

The concerns include the conditions the horses are living in, including mud, manure and questions about the care some of the animals are receiving.

“I actually witnessed that because it actually happened. So as a concerned citizen, as a concerned animal lover, I think we need to look to a much higher standard when we’re on account to be proclaimed the horse capital of the world, humane for horses and people,” said Marco, a neighbor.

Embryo Transfer Specialists posted a statement saying it is addressing conditions caused by recent heavy rain and that it takes concerns about the care of its horses seriously.

The facility has faced questions about horse welfare before. TV20 reported on concerns involving the facility in 2021. Records also show a 2008 incident in which about 100 horses died or were euthanized after a sudden illness.

TV20 reached out to the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, which said there was nothing illegal about the situation.

Copyright 2026 WCJB. All rights reserved.