The Kentucky state veterinarian's office has the yeoman's responsibility to regulate and manage the importation of an estimated 800 horses representing 62 countries that are scheduled to participate in the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games Sept. 25-Oct. 10 at the Kentucky Horse Park near Lexington.

"The World Equestrian Games are far greater in size and scope than anything the state veterinarian's office has managed before," Agriculture Commissioner Richie Farmer said. "However, the staff of the state veterinarian's office has vast experience in equine health and works several large-scale and high-profile events every year. These equine athletes couldn't be in better hands."

"The state veterinarian's office is committed to providing a healthy environment for the horses that will come to Kentucky to compete in the Games," State Veterinarian Robert Stout, DVM, said.

Five equine inspectors currently conduct inspections at the horse park, averaging 130 inspection hours per week, said E.S. Rusty Ford, DVM, equine programs magager for the Kentucky State Veterinarian. The Office of the State Veterinarian (OSV) is working to ensure that the horse park's resident equines meet the health requirements of the equestrian sport's governing body, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI)