The eyes of the horseracing world will again focus on Louisville this weekend for the 147th running of the Kentucky Derby. The health of the horse continues to be an area of emphasis. Congress, back in December, passed the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act.
The far-reaching legislation includes a focus on ways to reduce improper medication use. Dr Jeff Berk, current chair of the American Association of Equine Practitioners Racing Committee, said it goes beyond what’s typically considered performance enhancing drugs.
“With regard to therapeutic medication, it is important to remember that the amount of medication not exceed the prescribed limits and also that it’s only administered when a horse needs it. In other words, it should be accompanied by a veterinary examination and a diagnosis before treating a horse,” said Berk.
The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Act includes a heavy focus on bringing uniformity to racetrack conditions. Berk said there are other aspects to safety beyond racetrack maintenance. “Some of them are with regard to prerace examinations and making those mandatory because, of course, that’s a safety issue. We want to make sure that horses that are being entered in races are not lame and so it requires veterinary examination,” Berk explained.
Currently, Berk noted membership is being formed for the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority Board of Directors, plus two standing committees on medications and safety. Berk added the aim is to develop a nationwide uniform program by July of next year. The equine veterinarian said it’s not like “going from zero to hundred” between now and then. Berk said there are existing standards in each racing jurisdiction which the newly-formed Authority will evaluate.
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