The Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) Model Rules Committee has adopted protocol that prohibits private veterinarians from administering furosemide (Salix) on race day.

The RCI committee, which met Dec. 8 in Tucson, Ariz., also adopted a model rule urging all racing officials to report "any perceived issues" with a horse that could impact the running of a race.

The model rule on the tightening of the administration of furosemide has been in the works for the better part of this year. It was recommended by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium, a group of about 25 stakeholders.

"This change is designed to restrict private veterinarians from administering any medication to a horse on race day," RCI president Ed Martin said