An Ocala equine veterinarian with a lifelong vision born from the loss of a family horse has acquired a 25-acre equestrian facility to expand his business that helps horses heal and recover.
Earlier this month, Ocala-News.com reported on the $2.7 million sale of an equestrian rehabilitation and therapy center at 5590 NW Hwy 225 in Ocala.
According to a deed filed with the Marion County Clerk of Courts, the property was sold by H & R Real Estate, LLC to Because of Blue, LLC, for $2,711,427 on Tuesday, December 31, 2024.
In the days after the story, equine veterinarian Alberto J. Rullan, VMD, who was part of the team that acquired the property along with his brother (Willie) and wife (Katie), reflected on the purchase.
Dr. Rullan said the site is not just a facility, but the fulfillment of a promise he made to himself as a child after his family lost its horse.
“When I was just a boy in Puerto Rico, I came home from school one day and saw my grandmother crying. I’ll never forget the way she looked at me as she told me our horse had been hit by a car,” said Rullan in a statement posted to social media.
The doctor says he remembers not having any facilities nearby that could help their horse.
“There was no vet nearby or no one to help. We had no choice but to let him go. That moment changed me forever. I promised myself I’d do whatever it took to make sure no family or horse would ever feel that helpless again,” said the doctor.
Dr. Rullan, who founded Performance Equine Veterinary Services over 15 years ago, has always had a deep passion for horses and equine health.
“That promise led me here. After years of setbacks, sacrifice, and moments that tested my faith, I’m proud to share that we’ve purchased 25 acres to expand Equine Performance Innovative Center: EPIC and Performance Equine Veterinary Services, a place where horses can heal, recover, and thrive,” said Rullan.
Decades of experience, expertise, and dedication have preceded the expansion. A graduate of Penn State and the Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Rullan’s specialization in treating performance-related problems in horses has taken him all around the world for consultations and diagnoses.
“This isn’t just a facility. It’s the fulfillment of a vision born out of heartbreak and fueled by purpose,” said Rullan.
For more information on the equine center or the doctor, visit Equine Performance Innovative Center online.