In a dramatic legal confrontation, a South Carolina resident has filed a lawsuit against a Florida veterinary clinic and two of its veterinarians, alleging professional negligence and breach of fiduciary duty. Katherine Sturdevant lodged the complaint in the Circuit Court of the Fifteenth Judicial Circuit in Palm Beach County, Florida, on April 4, 2025, targeting Jorge Gomez, Sarah Allendorf, and Palm Beach Equine Clinic, LLC.
The case revolves around an equine named "Qantar’s Chico," which Sturdevant purchased based on a pre-purchase examination conducted by Dr. Sarah Allendorf at Palm Beach Equine Clinic. According to the complaint, Allendorf was tasked with performing a comprehensive evaluation of Chico in November 2021 to determine his suitability for competitive use by Sturdevant's daughter. The examination reportedly included x-rays of various parts of the pony's body. Despite noting moderate pain along Chico's thoracic spine during palpation—a method used to assess potential injuries—Allendorf allegedly failed to identify or communicate that Chico had a fractured wither.
Sturdevant claims she relied on Allendorf’s assurance that Chico was fit for competition when she decided to purchase him on December 1, 2021. However, subsequent behavioral issues arose when her daughter attempted to ride Chico at competitions in February and April 2022. The pony exhibited refusal to jump and erratic behavior inconsistent with his previously observed demeanor.
Despite multiple attempts at retraining and medical examinations over the following months—including boarding at professional equestrian programs and veterinary checks for conditions like EPM and Lyme disease—Chico's behavioral problems persisted. It wasn't until June 2024 that another veterinarian suggested reviewing the original x-rays from Allendorf’s examination. This review revealed the previously undisclosed fractured wither.
Sturdevant accuses both veterinarians of failing to meet professional standards expected within their field and breaching their fiduciary duties by not accurately reporting Chico’s condition. She asserts that if informed about the fracture initially, she would not have proceeded with the purchase.
The plaintiff seeks damages exceeding $50,000 for costs incurred from purchasing and caring for Chico under false pretenses as well as ongoing expenses related to his care due to these undisclosed injuries. Additionally, Sturdevant demands compensation for attorneys’ fees and other related costs.
Representing Katherine Sturdevant are attorneys Aleida M. Mielke, Carmen Y. Cartaya, and Kimbrell J. Hines from Segal McCambridge Singer & Mahoney Ltd., located in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The Case ID is: 502025CA003251 XXXAMB Div: AK.