Horse racing is full of noise, speed, and excitement. But behind that is a group that focuses on something else: keeping the horses safe. The veterinarians at the Jamaica Racing Commission (JRC) have the job of watching for any signs of injury, illness, or stress — and stepping in when needed.

Dr Simone Johnally has been a vet for seven years, with four and a half of those at the JRC.

“In my role as JRC veterinarian, I’m responsible for making sure horses head to the track safely and return just as sound. If they’re injured, sick, or simply not right — we act swiftly,” Dr Johnally told the Jamaica Observer’s The Supreme Racing Guide.

Her days vary. On race days, the pressure is high. Horses are checked before and after every race.

“If a horse returns unsound, we place them on our vet list, which pauses their racing to allow proper healing,” she said. “The goal is to protect them — not just for today’s race, but for the future.”

Some situations are more serious. Bleeding from the nostrils, muscle issues, or horses collapsing all require quick decisions and fast action.

“It can get stressful quickly,” Dr Johnally said. “But we train ourselves to stay ready — to act when every second counts.”

Away from race days, she and her team make rounds at the stables. They check on feeding routines, bedding conditions, and training schedules. They also talk with trainers and owners, advising when issues come up or pointing them toward private vets when needed.

Before races, horses go through several checkpoints. Dr Johnally explained the importance of the Saddle Ring and Parading Area.

“The Parading Area is critical,” she said. “We scan for abnormalities — swelling, imbalance, signs of stress. If anything looks off, we act.”

After races, they stay alert for issues and talk with trainers and owners about next steps. The vet list continues the monitoring process beyond race day.

“We will not just be monitoring them, we will have continued conversations with these owners and trainers about what we are seeing and what we think is in the best interest of their horses in terms of training and the dynamics,” she said.

The job is demanding. But the focus is clear: protect the horses, no matter what.

“We are here for the horses, regardless.”