07/12/2022
Dear Friends,
I have started this letter numerous times, deleted, edited, deleted again. I just don’t have the right words to say all that I want to say in this communication to you. While I had hoped to reach out to all of you on a personal level, the reality is, this is the Long Island horse community. Word travels fast.
So, for those of you that haven’t already heard, after considerable thought, physical ailments, and personal developments, I have made the very difficult decision to move off Long Island.
When I started my practice in 2012, I had no idea that it would grow to the magnitude that it has today. I am so very incredibly grateful to have experienced so much within this community. Long Island horse people are strong, full of character, often fun, often equally crazy, and I have been so privileged to be a part of it all. I was so blessed to know so many amazing horses (and goats!) and have been honored with their trust. It is a deep responsibility caring for my patients, and I have always been in awe (and grateful for) the trust and loyalty by both horse and owner. My life has been unimaginably enriched by the relationships I have made – both animal and human. You have become my family. My heart hurts…but it is also so full of many fond memories and current friendships, soft muzzles and warm smiles. I will take these with me and know that I am so blessed.
Beginning next week, I will be integrating my practice with Miller and Associates of Long Island, a multi-doctor practice known for its excellence and professionalism. I specifically chose Miller and Associates as I have been working with Dr. Miller, Dr. Robinson, and Dr. Wooten personally for many years and their reputation precedes them. Miller and Associates provides the same high-quality care, compassion, and dedication that I have strived for in my practice. We have covered emergency on-call for each other and have worked together on cases. These colleagues are my friends and whom I have placed trust to take care of my beloved patients and clients. I feel very fortunate to have colleagues that I can trust to take over care and know that my patients - my friends and family - will be in excellent hands.
This change is incredibly hard for me, and I know it may feel that way to you. It’s very difficult for me to transfer care after such tremendous responsibility, and something I do not take lightly. I expect some of you may have questions and concerns and I hope you will reach out so that I can earn your trust in this decision, as I have previously earned it in the care of your animals. I do intend to be available for assisting in this transfer, as well as work with the vets at Miller and Associates to review cases, transfer records, and let each doctor know how all the little quirks of your loved one(s) that make the vet visit a more positive experience.
I will be sending out further communication in the coming days to clarify contact information and processes. Going forward, please reach out to the Miller and Associates office for scheduling questions at 1-914-276-1260. Please notify their office that you are a client of Athletic Equine and need to be connected with Shannon at the Long Island office, who will then be able to assist you. If you currently have an appointment scheduled over the next week with Athletic Equine, that appointment is still in place with myself unless otherwise specified. Please reach out to Athletic Equine at 631-494-6897 for any specific questions concerning your scheduled appointment.
Signing off with much gratitude and love,
Dr. Kara
