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Articles ( * = TheHorse.com members only )Date Posted
Equine-Related Therapies a Focus for UK Doctoral Candidate
Margi Stickney, MS, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Health Promotion and Kinesiology in the University of Kentucky's College of Education, has been interested in the therapeutic benefits of animals since her early days as a graduate student at UK. As a lifelong horse person and volunteer at Central Kentucky Riding for Hope (CKRH) since ... Read full story
 11/17/2009
Study: Lactate Levels Could Guide Equine Conditioning Programs
Low-intensity exercise over long periods was an effective approach to conditioning horses as indicated by blood lactate levels measured in a new study. Blood lactate, the ionized form of lactic acid, which is a byproduct of anaerobic metabolism, can provide an indication of a horse's fitness, but there was previously little information about ... Read full story
 11/17/2009
Endurance Horse Study Reveals Common Complaints, Resolutions
A lot of things can happen over the many miles of an endurance event. California veterinarians recently tracked the incidence and resolution of equine medical issues encountered during endurance competition. C. Langdon Fielding, DVM, Dipl. ACVECC, of the Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center in California, and colleagues, looked at the records of ... Read full story
 11/15/2009
National Equine Welfare Code of Practice Endorsed
A national Welfare Code of Practice has been endorsed by the American Association of Equine Practitioners, the American Quarter Horse Association, the Kentucky Thoroughbred Association, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association, the U.S. Equestrian Federation, and the U.S. Trotting Association. The Welfare Code of Practice, drafted by the American ... Read full story
 11/12/2009
Baltimore Cart Ponies Seized
City of Baltimore authorities have seized 19 ponies after inspectors discovered the animals residing in allegedly filthy, dilapidated stables. The ponies are all owned by Baltimore street vendors who sell produce from horse-drawn carts. Baltimore Bureau of Animal Control authorities removed the animals on Tuesday after a routine inspection revealed ... Read full story
 11/11/2009
Quality Road to Van Home, Gate Work Planned
Quality Road not only suffered several injuries from his traumatic incident at the starting gate prior to the Breeders' Cup Classic, he suffered mentally as well and now will have to van home to Belmont Park from California after refusing to get on the plane. "He's got stitches, he nearly knocked a tooth out, he's got a laceration ... Read full story
 11/11/2009
Equine Welfare Consensus Reached By AQHA, Partners
Equine industry alliance partners reached a general consensus involving humane treatment and equine welfare during a meeting October 20 and 21 at the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo, Texas. Meeting participants discussed the merits of developing a uniform therapeutic medications program and humane treatment policies ... Read full story
 11/10/2009
USEF Medication Group Proposes Further Restriction of NSAIDs
The U.S. Equestrian Federation's Drugs and Medications Committee has reviewed a motion to further restrict the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in horses at USEF licensed competitions. The group put forth a rule change proposal that will be considered at the USEF Annual Meeting in January. Under the current USEF rules, ... Read full story
 11/10/2009
Lillie Langtry Suffers Knee Fracture
Thoroughbred Lillie Langtry, the beaten favorite in the Nov. 6 Breeders' Cup Juvenile Fillies Turf, suffered a slab fracture in a knee during the race. John Magnier of Coolmore, co-owner of the filly, was quoted in The Racing Post as saying, "She has a small fracture in her knee. It was nobody's fault and everybody here at Santa Anita ... Read full story
 11/8/2009
Undefeated Mare Zenyatta Wins Breeders' Cup Classic
Perhaps the Horse of the Year title is not a foregone conclusion. Zenyatta gave the crowd what they waited for--and the patrons responded by cheering, clapping, and waving--as she ran her unbeaten streak to 14 with a magnificent performance in the Breeders' Cup Classic Nov. 7 at Santa Anita. Zenyatta looked uncomfortable for the first 200 yards ... Read full story
 11/7/2009
Working Animal Welfare: Seeking Sustainable Solutions
In developing countries, working horses, donkeys, and mules are most often used for heavy labor, whether it be hauling heavy loads of cargo or carrying tourists up and down a mountain. The animals might be suffering from malnourishment, dehydration, disease, lameness, or injury. Rest and recovery is often not a practical option. The animals have ... Read full story
 11/6/2009
Polo Horse Drug Testing to Debut Next Year
Random drug tests will begin next year for horses in polo matches in the United States after the deaths of 21 elite horses in Florida that were injected with an incorrectly mixed supplement shortly before a championship match, the United States Polo Association said Wednesday. The decision was made last month to begin a pilot program for testing ... Read full story
 11/4/2009
Controversial Dressage Training Method Under FEI Investigation
Responding to public outcry following the Internet posting of a video showing an international-level dressage competitor warming up a horse using a method some call inhumane, the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) has launched an investigation. The so-called "blue tongue video" shows Swedish Olympian Patrik Kittel ... Read full story
 11/3/2009
Questions on Racehorse Health? Ask the AAEP
The health of the racehorse will be the featured topic in November as part of the American Association of Equine Practitioners' "Ask the Vet" online discussion on its horse health Web site. Each month an AAEP-member veterinarian answers questions submitted by horse owners pertaining to specific health issues. In November, questions will ... Read full story
 10/28/2009
Horse Fraud Trial: Winning the Selleck Case  *
Trial lawyer George Knopfler faced a number of unique challenges beyond simply proving the facts of his case when he represented actor Tom Selleck and his family in a lawsuit alleging fraud in the sale of a show horse. He had to educate a jury with little experience in the horse business about the ins and outs of the show horse world; he had to make ... Read full story
 10/19/2009
Upper Respiratory Tract Disorders Evaluated in Detail  *
What do you get when you "scope" 1,005 horses after 230 races, each within 24 minutes of the race, with the cooperation of 97 trainers over 28 race meets? A great deal of valuable data about the equine throat and the impact disorders of the throat can have on racing. "Considering that upper respiratory tract abnormalities are widely thought to be ... Read full story
 10/18/2009
USA Sweeps Medals at Kentucky Cup Endurance Event, a Prelude to WEG  *
The United States dominated the Kentucky Cup Endurance FEI CEI***, sponsored by Emirates Equestrian Federation. The Kentucky Cup was the official endurance test event for the 2010 Alltech World Equestrian Games. The U.S. riders garnered all three team and individual medals at the conclusion of the events on Oct. 14. The winners were officially declared ... Read full story
 10/16/2009
Reining Horse Futurity to Feature Clinton Anderson Clinic  *
Clinton Anderson, world renowned trainer, clinician, and host of "Downunder Horsemanship," will provide a phenomenal training clinic during the National Reining Horse Association (NRHA) Futurity & Adequan North American Affiliate Championship Show on Saturday, Dec. 5, in Oklahoma City. Anderson's trademark Aussie style and finesse will leave ... Read full story
 10/16/2009
Four Horse Deaths At Track's Opening Day Sparks Investigation in England  *
Following the death of four jump horses on opening day at Wetherby Racecourse and Conference Centre in England, the track will be investigated by the British Horseracing Authority (BHA), according to an article today (Oct. 16) on horseandhound.co.uk. The previous day a track press release from Paul Struthers, Media Relations Manager for the British ... Read full story
 10/16/2009
Theatrical Pensioned From Stud Duty  *
Hill 'n' Dale Farms announced Oct. 13 that champion and leading Thoroughbred sire Theatrical has been pensioned from stud duty. The 27-year-old son of Nureyev, out of the Sassafras mare Tree of Knowledge, was bred in Ireland by Bert and Diana Firestone. They raced Theatrical in Europe and the United States, and later raced him with the late Allen ... Read full story
 10/15/2009
Sea the Stars Retired  *
Sea the Stars, who secured his place among Thoroughbred racing's all-time greats when he powered his way to a thrilling two-length victory over Youmzain in the Qatar Prix de l'Arc de Triomphe (Fr-I) Oct. 4, has been retired to stud. The announcement that the 3-year-old son of Cape Cross will not go for the Breeders' Cup Classic (gr. I) was made just ... Read full story
 10/13/2009
Breeders' Cup Classic Still in Plans for Kentucky Derby Winner Mine That Bird  *
(Edited Oak Tree notes) Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner Mine That Bird will remain at Santa Anita and point to the Breeders' Cup Classic (gr. I) at Oak Tree on Nov. 7, trainer Chip Woolley said Monday morning. "We were disappointed with his race in the Goodwood Stakes (sixth, beaten about four lengths), but now that I've had ... Read full story
 10/13/2009
Study: Throat Anatomy Differs in DDSP Horses   *
Horses with persistent dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP), an important performance-limiting abnormality of the upper respiratory tract, have a different anatomic location of the larynx than horses with only intermittent DDSP, report Cornell University researchers. DDSP affects approximately 10% to 20% of racehorses and is diagnosed by ... Read full story
 10/10/2009
Rachel Alexandra Back at Churchill Downs  *
Leading Horse of the Year candidate Rachel Alexandra returned to her home base at Churchill Downs Oct. 7 and settled into familiar surroundings in trainer Steve Asmussen's Barn 38 following a long van ride from Saratoga, where she spent much of the summer and the early days of fall. "She walked the shed this morning," Asmussen said. "It was a little ... Read full story
 10/9/2009
Thoroughbred Shamardal to Miss Rest of Breeding Season  *
Darley stallion Shamardal has injured his withers and will be rested for the remainder of the Southern Hemisphere breeding season at the outfit's Australian farm. The English champion is expected to make a full recovery before the end of the year. Shamardal will return to Europe with the other shuttle stallions in time for the Northern Hemisphere ... Read full story
 10/9/2009
Itineraries for Traveling Animal Performers Proposed by USDA  *
The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is proposing to amend Animal Welfare Act (AWA) regulations to require the submission of itineraries by traveling exhibitors of regulated animals. This proposal would ensure that APHIS' animal care inspectors have access to exhibitors' facilities, animals, and records to conduct unannounced ... Read full story
 10/7/2009
Thoroughbred Racing Safety and Integrity Standards to Expand   *
The independent monitor for the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) Safety and Integrity Alliance will conduct a "systematic and formal data-gathering phase" in the next few months and release a "detailed, comprehensive report" by the end of the year. Meanwhile, the alliance, which accredits racetracks, is developing standards for wagering ... Read full story
 10/2/2009
Retired Racehorse Training Project to Debut in Maryland  *
Both the Maryland Jockey Club and the Maryland Horse Breeders Association are supporting a new project to train Maryland riders to work with ex-racehorses. Maryland trainer Steuart Pittman, Jr. of Dodon Farm in Davidsonville is kicking off the Retired Racehorse Training Project on October 4, with a ticketed event at Maryland Therapeutic Riding in ... Read full story
 10/1/2009
Del Mar Receives Thoroughbred Safety Accreditation   *
The Del Mar Thoroughbred Club in Del Mar, Calif., has been fully accredited by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance following a complete review of all racing operations at the facility. Del Mar is the 11th racing facility to be so designated by the Alliance. The accreditation of Del Mar was the culmination of ... Read full story
 9/29/2009
NYC Carriage Horse Audit Pushes for Licensing, Inspections  *
New York City's 203 carriage horses could be better monitored by city agencies, according to a follow-up audit report recently issued by the office of NYC Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. The two NYC agencies in question are the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (Health Department) and the Department of Consumer Affairs (DCA). The Health ... Read full story
 9/29/2009
Measuring Ponies: Laser Device Might Give More Accurate Height  *
A laser device for measuring horses and ponies might give more reliable and objective measurements than a traditional stick, researchers said. Ponies currently competing in Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) events must not measure more than 151 cm with shoes or 150 cm without shoes when measured at the event. Researchers working on a recent ... Read full story
 9/29/2009
Guilty Verdict Returned in Chicago Carriage Horse Trial   *
Two of three Chicago carriage horse drivers were convicted on misdemeanor counts of animal neglect on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Michele Goudie, manager and co-owner of J.C. Cutters Ltd., and carriage driver Melissa Woicek received guilty verdicts on six and one counts respectively; a third defendant, Frances Dupont, was acquitted. Defense attorney John ... Read full story
 9/28/2009
Study Sheds Doubt on Marbles' Effect on Mare Heat Cycles  *
Many people have offered solutions to overcome the problems of inconsistent performance while mares are in heat. One method popular with owners today is the implantation of marbles as glass intrauterine devices (IUDs). "The original paper that described this technique suggested that the marble might behave like an early pregnancy and delay the mare’s ... Read full story
 9/26/2009
Training Alters Stride in Racehorses  *
Training mature racehorses produces a decrease in the protraction (extension) time of the forelimb and might reduce the risk of training-induced injuries, said Marta Ferrari, DrMedVet, PhD, MRCVS, of Park Veterinary Centre in Watford, U.K, and colleagues at London's Royal Veterinary College in a new study. The researchers aimed to investigate the ... Read full story
 9/19/2009
Mule Races Canceled after Multiple Medication Violations   *
Fairplex canceled the first two races of its Sept. 17 card when it was discovered that more than three-quarters of the entries for both mule races had been given medication within 24 hours of the races. The California Horse Racing Board, the Fairplex stewards, and track management canceled the first two races program when they received documentation ... Read full story
 9/18/2009
LSU Equine Drug Testing Lab Receives Racehorse Contract Extension   *
The Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Medication Surveillance Laboratory (EMSL) has received a three-year extension of its contract with the Louisiana State Racing Commission to provide drug testing of racehorses in the State. Established in 1987, the EMSL performs all equine drug testing for the Louisiana State Racing ... Read full story
 9/17/2009
Racehorse Retraining Symposium Coming to Maryland  *
A training symposium focusing on retraining the retired racehorse will be offered by professional three-day event rider and clinician Steuart Pittman Oct. 4 in Crownsville, Md. The purpose of this event is to demonstrate the skills that a rider needs to train a retired racehorse and to promote these generous athletes. In the first segment, Pittman ... Read full story
 9/14/2009
AP Report: Racetrack Horse Deaths Down Slightly   *
The rush to improve safety since Eight Belles was euthanized at last year's Kentucky Derby did little to curb the number of horses dying at American racetracks in 2008, The Associated Press found in a national count. Although many tracks were already implementing safety reforms when the popular filly pulled up lame with two broken legs after finishing ... Read full story
 9/8/2009
Rachel Alexandra to Face 7 Males in Historic Woodward  *
Rachel Alexandra has already captivated the Thoroughbred racing world with breathtaking performances and record-setting wins. Today at Saratoga, the 3-year-old filly will seek history when trying to become the first female to win the Woodward Stakes (gr. I)—a feat that would almost certainly lock up Horse of the Year honors and stamp the 3-year-old ... Read full story
 9/5/2009
Massey University Veterinarians to Host Dressage Greats  *
Some of the world's leading equestrian talent will be at Manfeild, New Zealand, this month to team up with Massey University's leading equine scientists and sporting academics for the International Equestrian Federation regional dressage forum. The forum will be held at Manfeild's Agri-Stadium in Feilding, Sept. 12-14. The University is co-hosting ... Read full story
 9/5/2009
WEG Endurance Test Event Needs Volunteers  *
Want to spend a Kentucky autumn day watching some elite equine athletes and riders do their thing against a backdrop of Bluegrass? How about getting an inside view of the veterinary work behind the scenes at an international endurance event? The organizers of the endurance portion of the 2010 Alltech FEI World Equestrian Games are looking for a few ... Read full story
 9/4/2009
Racehorse Conformation Discussed on New DVD  *
Kentucky Derby-winning trainer Michael Matz, Keeneland sales inspector Ryan Mahan, Fasig-Tipton sales inspector Bill Graves, and noted bloodstock agent Buzz Chace share their knowledge and guiding principles when it comes to analyzing conformation in Conformation for Performance, a DVD released by Blood-Horse Publications. The DVD is an hour-long, ... Read full story
 9/4/2009
California Racing Board to Examine New Safety Equipment  *
The newly-formed safety committee of the California Horse Racing Board will meet for the first time Sept. 4 to begin the regulatory process to establish new standards and specifications for vests, helmets, and whips. The committee will examine updated safety equipment that uses the newest technology and materials available for the protection of racing ... Read full story
 9/3/2009
Horse Bits and Bitting Extension Webcast this Month   *
A free Webcast on bits and bitting will be presented later this month through My Horse University and eXtension HorseQuest. Holly Spooner, PhD, assistant professor and equine Extension specialist at West Virginia University, will discuss factors such as bit selection for different stages of training and how a bit functions. The Webcast will take ... Read full story
 9/3/2009
Older Horses: Elmer Bandit Might Compete This Month  *
Elmer Bandit, the 38-year-old record holder for competitive trail mileage, hasn't hit the trails lately, but last weekend found the gray Half-Arabian and owner Mary Anna Wood working with a dressage trainer. The two had lessons on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday "We worked on being round, balanced, and straight," Wood said. A chiropractor who worked ... Read full story
 9/2/2009
Racetrack Veterans Look for Luck in Odd Customs and Beliefs   *
In the modern world of speed figures, tracking devices, and sheets handicapping, just about any racetracker will tell you making it into the hallowed ground of the winner's circle might depend more on cats, birds, bugs, peanuts, popcorn, and pennies. And those are just a few icons of a virtual pantheon of superstitions that many owners, trainers, ... Read full story
 8/30/2009
California Report: Racehorse Hind Limb Injuries Increased  *
A necropsy report presented to the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) Aug. 27 at Del Mar tends to support trainers who complain that synthetic tracks lead to more hind limb injuries. In 2008, 19 Thoroughbreds from a total of 111 that died on synthetic tracks in the state succumbed to catastrophic hind limb injuries, according to a preliminary CHRB/University ... Read full story
 8/28/2009
Walking Horse Celebration Show Inspectors Ready   *
Federal Horse Protection Act (HPA) compliance inspectors will be out in force during this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration, said Rachel Cezar, DVM, coordinator for the USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's Horse Protection Program. The Horse Protection Act forbids soring, the deliberate injury to a horse's legs to achieve ... Read full story
 8/27/2009
Equine Heat Tolerance Parameters Examined in Study   *
In a step toward understanding heat tolerance in horses, Brazilian researchers recently concluded that respiratory rate (RR), heart rate (HR), and rectal temperature (RT) are the most useful parameters for distinguishing equine adaptation to elevated temperatures. As part of an ongoing project on equine heat tolerance, the study authors investigated ... Read full story
 8/26/2009
Saratoga Fully Accredited by Safety Alliance  *
New York Racing Association-operated Saratoga has been fully accredited by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance, officials announced Aug. 21. Saratoga, host of the grade I Travers Stakes Aug. 29, was inspected by alliance officials Aug. 5-7 during live racing programs. It is the eighth racetrack to receive full ... Read full story
 8/22/2009
Project Brings Vet Training to Rural China   *
Working donkeys, horses, and mules in Xinjiang, China, are on the receiving end of care and guidance provided through a project by Urumqi University, the World Society for the Protection of Animals, and the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA). Bringing the maize crop back from the fields. The group has had a veterinary vehicle ... Read full story
 8/19/2009
Derby Winner Mine That Bird to Have Surgery  *
Trainer Chip Woolley Mine That Bird will undergo surgery later today for an entrapped epiglottis, but the horse is still pointed toward the Shadwell Travers Stakes at Saratoga on Aug. 29. Woolley said the surgery would be performed by Patricia Hogan, VMD, Dipl. ACVS, at the Ruffian Medical Center. Earlier on Aug. 17, the winner of the Kentucky Derby ... Read full story
 8/17/2009
Donated Water Troughs Aid Moroccan Cart Horses   *
Cart horses, mules, and donkeys working in the Moroccan city of Marrakech are now able to stay hydrated throughout their hot days on the job, thanks to the donation of nine water troughs by the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA). The troughs are located near the main stands where around 1,000 horses and mules that pull tourist carriages ... Read full story
 8/13/2009
Softer Whips for Racehorses at Del Mar   *
Del Mar is taking the sting out of its whips. On Wednesday, it will become the first California racetrack to require riding crops that don't raise welts. Darrell Haire, regional manager for the Jockeys' Guild, said the whips are made of softer leather or fabric. They're supposed to get the horse's attention with a popping noise rather than by causing ... Read full story
 8/12/2009
Saddle Pad Research Shows Variable Changes in Rider Pressure  *
Saddle pads might help reduce painful pressure on a horse's back caused by ill-fitting saddles, but the ideal pad will vary from horse to horse and from saddle to saddle, according to a new study by Austrian researchers. Optimum pressure relief will also depend on the discipline and even the gait, said primary study author Anja Kotschwar, DVM, research ... Read full story
 8/12/2009
NY May Demand Horses' Complete Vet Records  *
State racing regulators in New York, seeking additional and timely information about medications given to racehorses, are eyeing a major crackdown on recordkeeping practices of Thoroughbred owners and trainers. In what one official said could result in a considerable change for some in the industry, strict sanctions could be levied against trainers ... Read full story
 8/8/2009
Answer the Phone! Readers Dial Up Their Cell Phones  *
About 900 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "What type of mobile device do you use?" Results were as follows: Basic cell phone 66.85% (601) Other Internet-enabled phone 9.90% (89) BlackBerry 8.57% (77) Other type of "smart phone" (i.e., Palm Treo, etc.) 5.45% (49) iPhone 4.67% (42) I don't have a cell phone ... Read full story
 8/7/2009
Washington International Shows Its Horse Face(book)  *
Now in its 51st year, the Washington International Horse Show (WIHS), one of the oldest equine events in the country, is turning to social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, to help guide its future. WIHS dipped into social media earlier this year, creating pages on Facebook and Twitter, to connect with the riders, trainers, owners, and horse enthusiasts ... Read full story
 8/6/2009
World Equestrian Games 2010 Test Event: Kentucky Cup Vaulting  *
Kenny Geisler and Megan Benjamin, the most successful American vaulters competing today, solidified the Mt. Eden Vaulters' domination of the Kentucky Cup Vaulting on July 31. Geisler, 28, was leading the CVI2* men's division (6.979) at the competition's halfway point, and Benjamin, 21, was leading the CVI2* women's division (7.933). The Kentucky Cup ... Read full story
 8/2/2009
Expert and Novice Riders See Jumps Differently, Study Says   *
Training unmounted riders to look at jumps the right way could enhance horse and rider performance and prevent jumping accidents, suggest researchers who recently published a study on rider visualization. Researchers from the United Kingdom and Ireland found more advanced riders were significantly better at recalling important points of focus in ... Read full story
 8/1/2009
Tevis Veterinarians Add New Post-Ride Check  *
Head Tevis Cup veterinarian Greg Fellers, DVM, will implement a new post-ride vet check this year. His check will be conducted within two hours after horses complete the 100-mile ride from Lake Tahoe to Auburn, Calif. "What I am looking for in this new check is a continually falling heart rate. This check should find heart rates in the 44, 46, 48 ... Read full story
 7/30/2009
Six Catastrophic Injuries Reported at Del Mar   *
Six horses have died from catastrophic injuries at Del Mar during a 10-day span that includes the first week of racing. Three occurred during morning training on Polytrack, two happened during races on Polytrack, and one was in a turf race. The fatalities came from six different barns. Mad for Plaid, a maiden claimer trained by Peter Miller, fractured ... Read full story
 7/30/2009
Competitor Preps for 100-Mile Tevis Endurance Ride   *
The first competitors in the 2009 Tevis Cup endurance ride to arrive at the Auburn, Calif., fairgrounds last week were Thor Halseth, of Agoura, Calif., and his 8-year-old gray Polish Arabian gelding, Road Rage. Halseth arrived early to participate in the race sponsored training ride where experienced former competitors guide riders over the last ... Read full story
 7/30/2009
New York Racehorse Oxygen Therapy Rule Clarified   *
The New York State Racing and Wagering Board clarified July 28 that horses are banned from being entered in races if they have received hyperbaric oxygen therapy treatment within one week of post time. The therapy is permitted otherwise. The directive, explained in a release, clarifies existing state rules and is endorsed by the New York Racing Association, ... Read full story
 7/29/2009
Racehorse Safety Accreditation for Monmouth Park  *
Monmouth Park in New Jersey is the sixth racetrack to be accredited by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance. Monmouth, host of the grade I Haskell Invitational Aug. 2, was reviewed by alliance officials July 9-10. Ronald Jensen, DVM, racing official Richard Lewis, and alliance executive director Mike Ziegler ... Read full story
 7/28/2009
Tevis Cup Endurance Ride Vet Countdown Begins  *
Veterinary preparations for the 54th running of the Tevis Cup, a 100-mile horse race, have kicked into high gear as the Aug. 1 race day approaches. Head veterinarian Greg Fellers, DVM, has been working on recruiting and organizing the 17 veterinarians charged with manning the nine equine checkpoints scattered between the starting point near Lake ... Read full story
 7/27/2009
Registering a Thoroughbred Foal? Remember Retirement Program  *
The majority of Thoroughbred registration applications were recently mailed to the breeders fo 2009 live foals. The Jockey Club is reminding owners and breeders that they can contribute to the post-racing care of Thoroughbreds through a voluntary checkoff program that benefits Thoroughbred Charities of America (TCA) and the Thoroughbred Retirement ... Read full story
 7/23/2009
Toe Grab Recommendations Adjusted by Jockey Club  *
After discussions with industry participants and a review of all scientific research available on the use of toe grabs on the front shoes of Thoroughbreds, The Jockey Club Thoroughbred Safety Committee recommends adjusting the current RCI Model Rule on horse shoes to allow toe grabs up to four millimeters in height on front shoes on dirt racing surfaces ... Read full story
 7/23/2009
Delaware Track Adopts Emergency Rule on Toe Grab Horseshoes  *
After noticing an unusually high number of horses stumbling at the start during the first month of the Delaware Park meet, the Delaware Racing Commission adopted an emergency regulation that allows toe grabs with a height of up to four millimeters to be permitted for racing on dirt. The track had implemented a recommendation from The Jockey Club ... Read full story
 7/17/2009
Study: Rein Modifiers Helpful for Novice Riding Lessons   *
A training martingale--a piece of equipment with rings on either side of the horse's neck to stabilize rein position--might provide a more comfortable experience for lesson horses in novice riding programs. In a study at Michigan State University, Camie Heleski, PhD, and her colleagues observed novice riders mounted on horses fitted with and without ... Read full story
 7/13/2009
Third Calgary Stampede Chuckwagon Horse Dies  *
An outrider horse competing in the GMC Rangeland Derby chuckwagon race at the Calgary Stampede in Alberta, Canada, died Friday following a pulmonary embolism. The Thoroughbred was the second chuckwagon race horse to succumb to a cardiac issue, and the third to die at the event in six days. A chuckwagon team horse died from a cardiac episode following ... Read full story
 7/13/2009
Rider Pressure Affects Horse Tack Evaluation   *
The force a rider exerts on the horse's back will shift depending on his or her position and should be included in any evaluation of tack pressure, researchers recently reported. "You need a force that is distributed over a certain area to make a good evaluation of the saddle pressure, therefore saddle measurements should be performed with a rider," ... Read full story
 7/11/2009
Proposed Mongolian Horse Race Raises Welfare Concerns   *
A planned horse race over the Mongolian Steppes has raised the ire of several equestrian groups concerned about the welfare of the more than 700 horses that will take part in the 1,000-kilometer Mongolian Derby. The League of Adventurists International Ltd., the British-based adventure company organizing the competition, describes the race as "the ... Read full story
 7/11/2009
Two Horses Die at Calgary Stampede Chuckwagon Races   *
Two horses died in separate incidents at the Calgary Stampede in Alberta, Canada. The annual event features rodeo-style competitions and livestock exhibitions. The horses were competing in the Stampede's GMC Rangeland Derby chuckwagon race. The race pits four teams of horse-drawn wagons against each other in a series of elimination races over several ... Read full story
 7/9/2009
Racehorse Drug Test National Lab Standards Set   *
New national laboratory standards for racehorse drug and medication testing, the implementation of a laboratory accreditation program, and a new independent Equine Quality Assurance Program have been established by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium board of directors. In addition, at the June 18 meeting in Baltimore the board approved ... Read full story
 7/6/2009
French Derby Winner Le Havre Retired  *
Thoroughbred Le Havre, winner of the June 7 Prix du Jockey-Club (Fr-I, the French Derby) for owner Gerard Augustin-Normand, has been retired from racing because of a tendon injury suffered during the classic race, according to the Racing Post. Trainer Jean-Claude Rouget bought Le Havre for 100,000 euros (approximately $135,000) at the 2007 Arqana ... Read full story
 7/5/2009
Trainer Suspended, Fined for Clenbuterol  *
Trainer Peter Eurton will serve five days of a 30-day suspension handed down by Hollywood Park stewards and pay a $3,000 fine after one of the horses in his care was found to have tested positive for clenbuterol following a race on May 2. Under terms of a stipulated agreement released by the California Horse Racing Board on July 3, the agency agreed ... Read full story
 7/5/2009
Smith to Ride Mine That Bird in Two Stakes  *
Trainer Chip Woolley announced July 4 that Mike Smith would ride Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands winner Mine That Bird in the $750,000 West Virginia Derby (gr. II) on Aug. 1 and the $1 million Shadwell Travers on Aug. 29. "Mike Smith has given us a two-race commitment for the West Virginia Derby and the Travers," Woolley said. Mine That ... Read full story
 7/5/2009
Brazilian Cart Horse Care a Focus for MSU Researcher  *
When Camie Heleski, PhD, MS, traveled to Brazil to attend a conference in 2000, she noticed that the horses used to pull carts transporting people throughout the country's villages appeared frail and their hair looked brittle and dull. The animals also displayed lesions on their bodies where dry sweat would build up under their leather harnesses. In ... Read full story
 7/4/2009
Boston Police Horses Relocated After Budget Cuts  *
The horses of the Boston Police Department Mounted Unit disappeared from Boston's streets as of June 30, the end of the fiscal year. The 12 horses fell victim to budgetary cutbacks needed to bridge a $20 million shortfall and avoid layoffs of uniformed officers. Of the unit's 12 horses, four will be maintained by the Plymouth County Sheriff's Department ... Read full story
 7/2/2009
Riding Land Conservation Efforts Get Boost from AQHA   *
Land conservation projects will get a helping hand from the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA), after that group signed a memorandum of understanding to work together with the USDA Forest Service. The Forest Service is a federal agency dedicated to the management of National Forest System lands for a variety of uses and activities, including ... Read full story
 6/30/2009
Racehorse Medication Policies to be Focus of Jockey Club Speech   *
The need for international harmonization of racehorse medication rules will be the topic of the keynote address at The Jockey Club's 57th annual Round Table Conference on Matters Pertaining to Racing. Louis Romanet, chairman of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) will present the topic at the Gideon Putnam Resort in Saratoga ... Read full story
 6/30/2009
Study: Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage Prevented by Furosemide  *
Furosemide does more than enhance performance in Thoroughbred racehorses; it also has beneficial effects on the health and welfare of those horses, the American Veterinary Medical Association announced in a statement regarding a study to be published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). Most countries ban the race-day ... Read full story
 6/29/2009
Hoof Anatomy Video Released by Racehorse Safety Group   *
A free educational video that examines the physiology of the equine hoof and demonstrates proper care and shoeing techniques is now available. "The Hoof: Inside and Out" is offered online and as DVD by the Shoeing and Hoof Care Committee of the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit. "The hoof is the foundation of equine performance so it is ... Read full story
 6/29/2009
Racehorse All Smiles Recovering After Serious Injury  *
Veterinarians at New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa. are cautiously optimistic that All Smiles, who broke down near the finish line of the June 20 Obeah Stakes (gr. III) at Delaware Park, will make a full recovery, the mare's owner said June 26. A 5-year-old daughter of Awesome Again, All Smiles broke both sesamoids in her right front leg about ... Read full story
 6/27/2009
'Rachel' Gallops, All Set For Mother Goose  *
Preakness (gr. I) and Kentucky Oaks (gr. I) winner Rachel Alexandra galloped about a mile and a quarter on Belmont's fast main track early June 26, well in advance of a 9:30 a.m. EDT downpour. Today racing's hottest star will be a heavy favorite against four rivals in the $300,000 Mother Goose Stakes (gr. I). Admission is free for all women and pink ... Read full story
 6/27/2009
Hippotherapy Evaluation Aided by Technology, Report Says  *
The ability to measure changes in pressure values at the points of contact between a rider and a horse is anticipated to be an important tool in advancing the quality of hippotherapy, say researchers from Eastern Europe. Hippotherapy is a physical, occupational and speech therapy treatment strategy that utilizes equine movement. A hippotherapist ... Read full story
 6/25/2009
Widespread Drug Contamination Found at Racetracks  *
Since racetrack environments contain residues of multiple drugs that can be detected by standard testing procedures, environmental drug contamination as an explanation for positive drug tests in racehorses needs to be considered like it currently is in human athletes, said researcher Steven A. Barker, BS, MS, PhD, Everett D. Besch Distinguished Professor ... Read full story
 6/22/2009
Equitation Science Meeting to Focus on Horse Sport and Welfare  *
International authorities in horse behavior, training, and welfare will converge in Sydney, Australia, for the fifth Equitation Science Annual Conference, to be held at the University of Sydney's Faculty of Veterinary Science and Centennial Parkland Equestrian Centre July 12-14. The theme this year is "Ethical Equitation: A Sustainable Approach," ... Read full story
 6/22/2009
Horse Doping Case in FEI President's Family  *
The International Equestrian Federation (FEI) is investigating a second member of its president's family for alleged horse doping. The governing body said Friday that Princess Haya of Jordan will step aside from her presidential duties when it considers the case against Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, the son of her husband, Sheikh Mohammed ... Read full story
 6/20/2009
NTRA Safety Alliance Gives Delaware Park Accreditation  *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association announced June 17 that Delaware Park in Stanton, Del., has been fully accredited by the NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance following a complete review of all racing operations at the facility. Delaware Park is the fourth racing facility to be so designated by the alliance. Churchill Downs and Keeneland ... Read full story
 6/18/2009
AHC National Forum Tackles Equine Welfare Issues   *
Representatives of various equine breeds and disciplines found out June 16 they have a lot in common when it comes to the welfare and safety of horses. The "Welfare of the Horse," called the most inclusive program of its kind, was the sole topic for this year's American Horse Council National Issues Forum in Washington, D.C. It offered participants ... Read full story
 6/17/2009
Researchers Track Body Condition, Metabolic Conditions by Discipline   *
The sport in which horses participate often dictates the body condition in which they are maintained. Polo ponies are typically sleek and trim, their fitness evident in a tight, tucked-up appearance. The same can be said of most racehorses. Pleasure horses, those mounts used to poke around trails and forests, are sometimes softer and less muscular, ... Read full story
 6/16/2009
Researchers Examine Oral Acetate for Equine Exercise Recovery  *
An inaugural study has found that a sodium acetate electrolyte solution given orally with a typical hay and grain meal following exercise enhanced skeletal muscle metabolism to restore depleted glycogen (energy) sources. "Glycogen stored in muscle is the primary energy source for horses undergoing either short-term, high intensity or prolonged submaximal ... Read full story
 6/15/2009
Belmont Contender Dunkirk to Undergo Fracture Repair  *
Dunkirk, who ran a gutsy, front-running second in the June 6 Belmont Stakes, came out of the race with a non-displaced condylar fracture of the left hind cannon bone and will undergo surgery June 9 at the brand new Ruffian Equine Medical Center across the street from Belmont Park. Patricia Hogan, VMD, Dipl. ACVS, will perform the operation. "He will ... Read full story
 6/9/2009
Standardbred Adoption Service Launched for FREE Horses   *
TheHorse.com and the U.S. Trotting Association have joined forces to create a Standardbred Adoption Service listing for horses offered free to good homes. This is designed after TheHorse.com's successful Thoroughbred Adoption Service. The Standardbred Adoption Service will provide an Internet-based bulletin board for registered Standardbred racehorses ... Read full story
 6/4/2009
Study: Customize Bits and Bridles to Minimize Oral Ulcers  *
Bridles and bits should be custom designed or fitted in order to minimize the occurrence of oral ulcers, according to a group of Swedish researchers led by Ove Wattle, DVM, PhD, from the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Swedish University of Agricultural Science. "Oral ulcers and abrasions on the lips, cheeks, and tongue of horses are very ... Read full story
 6/1/2009
Vets Discuss 'Equitarian' Outreach Efforts, AAEP 2008  *
The table topic meeting room was full to overflowing with equine veterinarians at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif., most interested in some of the worldwide equine welfare projects both ongoing and proposed. The meeting was to continue a process to identify and coordinate some ... Read full story
 5/31/2009
Friesan Fire Sidelined  *
Vinery Stables' and Fox Hill Farm's Friesan Fire, who was made the favorite for this year's Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) after three consecutive graded stakes wins this spring, has been sidelined for a couple of months due to an injury. "When Friesan Fire grabbed a quarter in the Kentucky Derby, we felt like he had an excuse for ... Read full story
 5/29/2009
Equine Teams in Germany Disbanded Following Olympic Drug Issues  *
On May 28 the German equestrian federation stated that the national dressage, show jumping, and eventing teams had been disbanded "in the wake of further suggestions of doping and medication of horses," according to an article on HorseandHound.com. Yesterday's announcement also stated that "any rider wishing to ride for Germany would be vetted by ... Read full story
 5/29/2009
It's a Bird Positive After Oaklawn Handicap  *
It's a Bird, winner of the Lone Star Handicap (gr. III) on Memorial Day, could lose the purse from his April 4 victory in the Oaklawn Handicap (gr. II) as the result of a positive test for the prohibited substance naproxen, an anti-inflammatory medication. State steward Gary Wilfert said a hearing has not been scheduled, and a ruling has not been ... Read full story
 5/28/2009
Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation Announces Additional Study on Surfaces  *
The Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced today that it is providing $50,000 to fund an innovative research project designed to create a state-of-the-art method of assessing racetrack surfaces. The project is being conducted by Sue Stover, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS; Mont Hubbard, MS, PhD; Shrinivasa Upadhyaya, PhD; and Jacob Setterbo, BS, at ... Read full story
 5/28/2009
Researchers Examine Effects of Rider Stability  *
Austrian researchers have reported that the stability of a rider’s seat affects the forces acting on a horse’s back. Using an electronic pressure mat placed under a dressage saddle, scientists with the University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna’s Movement Science Group measured the forces created when an experienced rider rode 10 different sound horses ... Read full story
 5/22/2009
AQHA Releases Western Pleasure Judging and Training Guide   *
AQHA has released "Showing to Win: Western Pleasure," an in-depth look at one of the most popular western show classes, geared for all western pleasure exhibitors, trainers, and judges. This DVD is the first in a series presenting the standards expected in AQHA's most popular classes. Watch for more class DVDs in the Showing to Win series to be released ... Read full story
 5/20/2009
Pimlico Gets 'Provisional' Accreditation from Safety Group   *
Pimlico Race Course has received "provisional" accreditation from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) Safety and Integrity Alliance because not all documents tied to an inspection were submitted. The documents deal with drug-testing and compliance standards; officials said there are no safety issues at the track. Pimlico will host ... Read full story
 5/15/2009
Decision on Future of Victoria Steeplechase Racing Pending  *
A decision on the future of steeplechase racing in Australia's Victoria state was deferred May 13 until next week after the Racing Victoria Limited board took submissions from pro- and anti-jumps campaigns. RVL said the board would make an announcement next Monday, May 18. "The Racing Victoria Limited board has not yet reached a decision on the ... Read full story
 5/13/2009
Vet Commentary: Derby Weekend Celebration  *
(Originally published in the May 16, 2009, issue of The Blood-Horse magazine.) Calvin Borel, Bennie "Chip" Woolley Jr., and Mine That Bird stole the show in the 135th running of the Kentucky Derby. The upset victory was a Cinderella story if there ever was one. A hard-working, ex-rodeo-cowboy-turned-Thoroughbred trainer drives to Louisville from ... Read full story
 5/12/2009
Dutton Horse Bailey Wick Dies at Jersey Fresh Event  *
Bailey Wick, a chestnut Irish Sport Horse gelding ridden by Philip Dutton, was euthanized Saturday after falling at an obstacle while competing in the CCI3* at the Jersey Fresh event. According to a release posted by event organizers, the horse fell at obstacle 20 on course. A necropsy was not performed, per the request of the horse's owners, listed ... Read full story
 5/11/2009
Charity Releases Healthy Horse Guide for Tourists  *
The Brooke Hospital for Animals, a UK equine welfare charity that operates across 10 countries in Asia, Africa, Central America, and the Middle East, has released guidelines for tourists utilizing the services of working animals while on holiday. The Brooke is calling on all tourists to take action against the abuse of working equids by following ... Read full story
 5/11/2009
Research Protocol Aims to Improve Bone Chip Rehabilitation   *
If there is one thing most horsemen know well, it is the way things have always been done. The conventional paths to feeding, shoeing, training, and rehabilitating horses are processes that came to be tried-and-true for a reason: they usually accomplished the end goal. Today, the combination of research, technology, and, to some extent, an entrepreneurial ... Read full story
 5/8/2009
Derby Glow Continues As Runners' Connections Make Plans   *
On a cool, wet May 3 morning in the barn area of Churchill Downs, the owners and trainer of Mine That Bird were basking in the limelight while still trying to absorb what had transpired the previous day when the 3-year-old gelding posted a stunning 6 3/4-length victory over Pioneerof the Nile in the Kentucky Derby. Meanwhile, the connections of the ... Read full story
 5/4/2009
Lameness in the Sport Horse, AAEP 2008   *
Veterinarians attending the Lameness in the Sport Horse Table Topic at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif., discussed the need for taking a complete history and performing a clinical examination before making any imaging recommendations. Imaging is only as good as the history and clinical ... Read full story
 5/4/2009
Restraining Order Halts Chicago Carriage Horse Adoptions   *
Proceedings have ground to a halt pending the next court date for Chicago carriage horse company J.C. Cutters Ltd., including any further adoption or transfer of ownership of the five remaining horses. Defense attorney John Robeznieks has now secured a temporary restraining order (TRO) preventing the Hooved Animal Humane Society from finding new ... Read full story
 5/4/2009
AAEP 2008: Anabolic Steroid Testing in a Racing Environment   *
Current public consensus on the subject of steroid use in horses is different from that of 20-30 years ago. At the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif., Keith Soring, DVM, discussed testing for anabolic steroids. Now regulators, chemists, veterinarians, breeders, and owners recognize that ... Read full story
 5/3/2009
Kentucky Derby Upset for Mine That Bird and Borel  *
Jockey Calvin Borel won the Kentucky Oaks May 1 on heavy favorite Rachel Alexandra, and the following day in the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands, he scored a huge upset on Mine That Bird. "I did a Street Sense ride," Borel said, referring to his winning ride aboard Street Sense in the 2007 Derby. Borel is known for bringing horses up the ... Read full story
 5/2/2009
I Want Revenge Scratched From Derby  *
I Want Revenge, the morning-line favorite for the May 2 Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), was scratched after a filling was discovered in an ankle on the day of the race. It is the first time in Derby history (that anyone could research) that the morning-line favorite was scratched the day of the race. The soft tissue injury was discovered ... Read full story
 5/2/2009
Racehorse Stormalory Euthanized After Leg Fractures  *
Stormalory, a 3-year-old Thoroughbred colt, was euthanized after breaking down during the Crown Royal American Turf Stakes (gr. IIIT) at Churchill Downs May 1. Stormalory, trained by Bill Mott and owned by Sheik Mohammed of Dubai's Darley Stable, was the favorite in the 1 1/16-mile race. He broke slowly under jockey Julien Leparoux and was racing ... Read full story
 5/2/2009
AAEP 2008: Racetrack Emergencies   *
Effective management of racetrack emergencies is dependent on preplanning before the first horse leaves its stall, according to Mary Scollay-Ward, DVM, equine medical director for the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, who spoke at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif. Preparation includes ... Read full story
 5/1/2009
AAEP 2008: Conformation and Function   *
Whether we realize it or not, conformation--the way a horse is built--drives almost everything we do with horses. It affects our choice of horse for specific jobs, and it affects how well their bodies hold up to the stresses of those jobs. At the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif., attendees ... Read full story
 4/18/2009
Surface Safety Laboratory Coming Soon  *
A racing surfaces testing laboratory designed to enhance surface safety for horses and riders is being launched with the financial support of a broad industry coalition, it was announced April 17 by the laboratory's coordinators Mick Peterson, MS, PhD, and Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, FRCVS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ECVS. Based in Orono, Maine, the laboratory ... Read full story
 4/17/2009
Surface Safety, Step By Step   *
What type of impact do various terrains actually have on the health of a horse's hooves and legs? French researchers are using a highly sensitive 3-D dynamometric shoe and other instruments to give unprecedented insight into the biomechanical effects of diverse surfaces on not only a horse's limbs, but his entire musculoskeletal system. Researchers ... Read full story
 4/14/2009
AAEP Table Topic: Sport Horse Practice   *
A diverse group of practitioners discussed a variety of subjects related to treating and managing jumpers during the Sport Horse Practice (Jumpers) Table Topic, which was held at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention, held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif. Approximately 125 participants attended this program. An important ... Read full story
 4/11/2009
Track Safety Accreditation a Long-Haul Process   *
One down, but many more to go in a process designed to never hit the finish line. The accreditation of Churchill Downs by the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Safety and Integrity Alliance is being called a major accomplishment by the officials involved, but they also acknowledge it's just the beginning. Safety and integrity standards will ... Read full story
 4/10/2009
Churchill Receives Safety Accreditation   *
At a press conference April 9 at Churchill Downs, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) announced that the Louisville racetrack has been fully accredited by the NTRA Safety and Integrity Alliance following a comprehensive review of racing operations at the facility. Churchill Downs is the first track to be so designated by the Alliance. ... Read full story
 4/9/2009
Tendon Issue Takes The Pamplemousse Off Kentucky Derby Trail  *
The morning after the scratch of pre-race favorite The Pamplemousse from the Santa Anita Derby due to a tendon flare-up, co-owner Alex Solis II said the promising colt is off the Kentucky Derby trail. Later, Solis said The Pamplemousse would be out of action a minimum of six months. "He has a small lesion (on the tendon in his left front leg) and ... Read full story
 4/6/2009
AAEP 2008: Racehorse Exercise Predicts Bone Strength
Nearly 20% of fatal musculoskeletal injuries in Thoroughbred atheletes are due to complete humeral (forearm bone) fractures, which often occur early in training or following an prolonged layup. Rachel Entwistle, BS, of the University of California, Davis, discussed the wastage that occurs with humeral fractures in these atheletes at the 2008 American ... Read full story
 4/5/2009
Michigan Bans Racehorse Steroids   *
Michigan Horse Racing Commissioner Christine C. White April 1 gave notice to the state's horse racing industry that effective immediately, the presence of anabolic steroids will be prohibited in all horses entered to race at any pari-mutuel track in Michigan. "Integrity remains our priority," said White. "By incorporating a testing program for anabolic ... Read full story
 4/1/2009
AAEP 2008: Veterinary Care at Rodeos   *
Doug Corey, DVM, of Adams, Ore., presented the conditions surrounding emergency care at rodeos during his in-depth emergency care presentation at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention in San Diego, Calif. He emphasized that the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) has led in the creation of many welfare guidelines ... Read full story
 3/26/2009
AAEP 2008: Emergency Services at Steeplechase and Cross-Country Hunter Events   *
At the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif., Reynolds Cowles, DVM, of Blue Ridge Equine Clinic in Free Union, Va., reviewed the logistics of various cross-country jumping events that involve the need for veterinary care. Cross-country hunt meets typically have 70-75 mature (6- to 9-year-old) ... Read full story
 3/22/2009
New Book Shines Spotlight on Successful Ex-Racehorses   *
One of the most hotly debated issues in the horse racing industry is the uncertain fate that awaits many racehorses when their careers are over and they are no longer useful to their owners and trainers. Many find themselves in sale lots awaiting transport to a slaughterhouse; others fall victim to injury and neglect. However, more and more horses, ... Read full story
 3/20/2009
Court Date Changed in Chicago Carriage Horse Case  *
The Chicago court case involving J.C. Cutters Ltd. manager Michele Goudie and their six seized carriage horses has been continued from March 12 to late April. Cook County States Attorney’s spokesperson Tandra Simonton explained, “This is a part of the normal criminal process. Dates are set with the intent for defending and prosecuting attorneys to ... Read full story
 3/19/2009
AAEP 2008: Synthetic Racetrack Surfaces vs. Dirt and Turf   *
"Injuries and fatalities are a major problem in the (Thoroughbred) racing industry," said Jacob Setterbo, BS, a graduate student at the University of California, Davis, during the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention (held Dec. 6-10 in San Diego, Calif.). "There are about two racing-related equine deaths per day due primarily ... Read full story
 3/16/2009
AAEP 2008: Emergency Care at Endurance Events   *
Endurance horses perform protracted exercise of up to 12 hours for a 50-mile event, and up to 24 hours for a 100-mile competition. Besides metabolic issues created by fluid depletion and electrolyte imbalances due to sweating during sustained performance, immune and respiratory challenges stemming from transport to the event are added concerns. At ... Read full story
 3/14/2009
Catastrophic Injuries Spike at Turfway  *
After going a month with no fatalities, Turfway Park in Northern Kentucky was the site of five catastrophic injuries during an eight-day period in February, according to state veterinarian Bryce Peckham, DVM. During his monthly report March 10 to the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission, Peckham said the fatalities occurred between Feb. 13 and Feb. 21. ... Read full story
 3/11/2009
AAEP 2008: Emergency Preparedness for Eventing   *
Successful eventing horses possess unique traits and temperaments. They must be supple and well-mannered for dressage, strong, bold, and aggressive for the cross-country phase, and fit and balanced for stadium jumping. Kent Allen, DVM, of Virginia Equine Imaging, discussed the triathlon of equestrian sports--eventing--during the in-depth emergency ... Read full story
 3/7/2009
AAEP 2008: Emergency Veterinary Care at Horse Shows   *
Most horse show emergencies are able to be cared for on-site, but if a crisis develops, the horse should be stabilized and transported to a full-care facility, according to Rick Mitchell, DVM, of Fairfield Equine Associates in Newtown, Conn. He presented during the in-depth session on emergency care at the 2008 American Association of Equine Practitioners ... Read full story
 3/4/2009
Traffic, Opposition Result in Rome Carriage Ban   *
Weekday tourists to Rome's historic center will no longer enjoy the sights at a horse's pace. City authorities have withdrawn carriage licenses following opposition by animal rights activists, combined with several equine deaths in 2008 caused by heavy traffic. Concern over working conditions was another reason cited for the policy change, despite ... Read full story
 3/3/2009
Churchill Downs Implements Safety and Welfare Plan   *
Churchill Downs Incorporated has announced a series of new rules and policies designed to enhance the safety and welfare of jockeys and horses. The measures will be in place at Churchill Downs racetrack in advance of the this year's Kentucky Derby and will include standardized third-party testing of track surfaces and comprehensive testing of all winning ... Read full story
 3/2/2009
AAEP Releases Racing Safety and Welfare Recommendations   *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners today issued guidelines for protecting the health of the Thoroughbred racehorse. The white paper, "Putting the Horse First: Veterinary Recommendations for the Safety and Welfare of the Thoroughbred Racehorse," provides veterinary guidance on many issues challenging the racing industry and the care of ... Read full story
 2/16/2009
AAEP 2008: Medication in Racing and Performance Horses  *
Medication issues in equine competitions might have reached their highest level of public focus in 2008 due to high-profile situations such as Kentucky Derby winner Big Brown's steroid regimen and the disqualification of several Olympic horses for prohibited medications. Despite a significant investment of time and money by various advisory and regulatory ... Read full story
 2/15/2009
Seized Chicago Carriage Horses Find Temporary Home in Suburbs   *
Six Chicago horses belonging to J.C. Cutters Ltd. carriage company were seized on Friday, Feb. 6, amid conflicting reports on the reason for--and questions on the legality of--the action. The horses were taken to Flanery Farms, a private boarding stable in Maple Park, Ill. "Animal Care and Control didn't have a court order to seize the horses," said ... Read full story
 2/11/2009
Commentary: Track Regulatory Vet Asks 'What If?'  *
"You know, Doc, that filly you scratched the other day? We X rayed that ankle, and she had the beginnings of a condylar fracture..." I hear these words a few times each year when a trainer or private veterinarian is kind enough to give me an update. I am one of several dozen regulatory veterinarians, employed by racing associations or state racing ... Read full story
 2/9/2009
NYC Horse Carriage Regulations Under New Scrutiny   *
The controversy surrounding New York City horse carriages operating amidst increasing vehicular and pedestrian traffic has heated up again, and now the Teamsters union is also involved. In January, carriage company owners, drivers, and stable workers voted to join Teamsters Local 553, according to Secretary/Treasurer Demos Demopoulos. "They're ... Read full story
 2/6/2009
ReRun Establishes New Program  *
ReRun, the nonprofit Thoroughbred adoption group, and Bella Rosa Riding Academy (BRRA) in Howell, N.J., have established a new program, "Catch Riders," to educate and improve the horsemanship skills of young riders using Thoroughbred ex-racehorses. The Academy's equestrians of all riding levels will handle and retrain two ReRun horses awaiting adoption. ... Read full story
 1/31/2009
Elmer Bandit's Winter Workouts Move Inside   *
Never resting on his laurels, Elmer splits his winter hours between furthering his dressage training and sporting his blanket from his fans at TheHorse.com. Winter weather has driven 37-year-old competitive trail horse Elmer Bandit and his owner and rider Mary Anna Wood inside for dressage lessons. "Dressage contributes to keeping Elmer sound, limber, ... Read full story
 1/30/2009
Helping Working Equids in Egypt   *
There are roughly 15.5 million equids in Europe and the United States combined. These animals take part in the many equestrian sports and activities that have developed, and most enjoy good nutrition and care. In contrast to this, there are more than 100 million working equids in the developing world. More than 95% of the world's donkey population ... Read full story
 1/29/2009
Illinois Track Implements Welfare Plan   *
To make its position on horse slaughter clear, Fairmount Park in Illinois has put in place a zero-tolerance policy that would take stalls away from trainers linked to that industry. The track has also created an adoption program for Fairmount runners when they retire from racing. There are no slaughterhouses currently operating in the United States, ... Read full story
 1/28/2009
Chicago Stable, Carriage Rides Slated for Closure   *
After 138 years of operation, the last riding hall and stable in downtown Chicago might be turning out the lights for good. At issue are the carriage rides provided year-round in the Magnificent Mile shopping district, and post-9/11 restrictions placed on the number of carriage parking zones. Noble Horse Theatre and stable owner Dan Sampson said ... Read full story
 1/27/2009
Vets Investigate 'Unusual' Injuries at Fair Grounds   *
Although five horses have been euthanized as a result of catastrophic injuries at Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots since Jan. 17, Tom David, DVM, equine medical director for the Louisiana State Racing Commission, said the incidents appear to have no direct connection with the condition of the racing surface. "We can't find any correlation with ... Read full story
 1/25/2009
Commentary: The Racetrack, A Changing Perspective   *
Recently a veterinary colleague remarked that a horse that had sustained a minor laceration in the starting gate had been scratched. While there was no expectation that the horse's performance would be impacted, she could not justify permitting an injured horse to race. If the same incident had occurred several years earlier, it is unlikely she would ... Read full story
 1/20/2009
California Racing Group Launches Synthetic Track Study   *
Love them or hate them, one of the main concerns about synthetic tracks is how to determine if they are doing what they were intended for--provide a safe, consistent racing surface. In California, where four major racetracks use different brands of synthetic surfaces, the issue of safety has become paramount. Problems, especially at Del Mar and Santa ... Read full story
 1/16/2009
Lady Finds a Home: 50th Thoroughbred Adopted Through TheHorse.com Service   *
TheHorse.com recently got word that a Thoroughbred formerly en route to slaughter had found a home via TheHorse.com's Thoroughbred Adoption Services, sponsored by Gainesway Farm. She was the 50th Thoroughbred to be placed through the service. See a list of horses placed. Lady, whose registered name is Wheels of Stars (Greggie's Wheel--Kate's Golden ... Read full story
 1/15/2009
AAEP On Call Media Program to Receive Eclipse Award  *
The On Call media-assistance program of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) has been honored with the 2008 Special Eclipse Award, the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA), Daily Racing Form, and the National Turf Writers Association announced today. The Special Eclipse Award honors outstanding individual achievements ... Read full story
 1/15/2009
45 Horses Find New Homes Via TheHorse.com Service  *
Launched in November 2008, TheHorse.com's Thoroughbred Adoption Service has now coordinated new homes for 45 horses. See a list of horses placed. "I’m extremely pleased that our initial efforts in helping find homes for horses through our Thoroughbred Adoption Services on TheHorse.com is working so well," said Publisher Kimberly S. Brown. "We hope ... Read full story
 1/9/2009
Trainers Voice Santa Anita Surface Concerns   *
About 40 Southern California-based trainers met with Pro-Ride head Ian Pearse Jan. 7 at Santa Anita Park to voice their concerns over the condition of Santa Anita's synthetic racing surface, which Pearse installed a year ago. Unlike meetings last year, where a majority of trainers defended the installation of synthetic surfaces at the state's racetracks, ... Read full story
 1/8/2009
New Scrutiny for Santa Anita Track Surface   *
With five catastrophic injuries, including three fatalities, in the first five days of racing, Santa Anita's synthetic surface has again come under the microscope. Santa Anita officials and horsemen were concerned that the Pro-Ride surface might have changed following rain, a drop in temperature, and the added traffic of afternoon racing, even while ... Read full story
 1/5/2009
Remember Working Equids this Holiday Season   *
As Christmas cards arrive in the mail, the Society for the Protection of Animals Abroad (SPANA) asks horse owners around the world to remember the "cards" received by many working animals. According to SPANA, many working horses and donkeys in the West African country of Mauritania never get to eat straw or grass as it simply costs too much for their ... Read full story
 12/24/2008
New York Laws Designed to Protect Carriage Horses  *
During the busy--and very often cold--holiday season, carriage horse rides seem to be a staple of tourist activity in New York City. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) would like the public to be aware of some of the laws designed to protect the carriage horses and which agencies are responsible for enforcing those ... Read full story
 12/22/2008
AAEP Racing Task Force Puts the Horse First   *
"We have a crisis in Thoroughbred racing," stated Scott Palmer, VMD, of New Jersey, a past president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and head of the AAEP Racing Task Force. The AAEP Racing Task Force was conceived in Austin, Texas, at the organization's Focus meeting because of the country's outcry following the catastrophic ... Read full story
 12/17/2008
Physiologic Java Jolt Supports Illegal Status of Caffeine  *
Not only does caffeine offer a "pick-me-up" to a large chunk of North America's population, but it has once again been confirmed as a performance-enhancing drug in horses. In the study, "Effects of intravenous administration of caffeine on physiologic variables in exercising horses," Brazilian researchers reported that the intravenous administration ... Read full story
 12/14/2008
Speed Researcher Says Horses Have Reached their Limit  *
It doesn't look like Thoroughbred racehorses will be breaking records anytime soon ... or perhaps ever again. According to Mark Denny, PhD, of California's Stanford University, a plateau in racing speed was reached back in 1949, 1971, and 1973 for the Kentucky Derby, Preakness Stakes, and Belmont Stakes, respectively. Denny analyzed the records ... Read full story
 12/11/2008
Thoroughbred Wild Again Euthanized at Age 28   *
Three Chimneys Farm owner Robert Clay announced Dec. 5 that inaugural Breeders' Cup Classic (gr. I) winner and prolific stallion Wild Again was euthanized earlier in the day due to the infirmities of old age. He will be buried in the stallion cemetery located next to the main stallion barn at the farm near Midway, Ky. "We all knew this day would come, ... Read full story
 12/6/2008
Tampa Veterinarians Must Pay to Play  *
Tampa Bay Downs is requiring veterinarians to pay their first-ever licensing fees for its meet that begins Dec. 13. A licensing fee for blacksmiths was planned, but it has been put off until the 2009-2010 racing season. Margo Flynn, vice president of marketing and publicity at Tampa Bay, said the new license fees will be used to help cover Tampa Bay ... Read full story
 12/6/2008
Louisiana to Adopt Racehorse Steroids Rule  *
Using emergency regulations, the Louisiana Racing Commission has banned the use of anabolic steroids in racehorses effective Jan. 1, 2009. Racing commission executive director Charlie Gardiner said the regulations were adopted Dec. 2 via emergency procedure to have them on the books in time for the first of the year. "The end of January was the earliest ... Read full story
 12/4/2008
U.K. Horse Charity Investigates Eventing Risks  *
The Horse Trust, a U.K. equine welfare organization, has announced that based on recent research the group funded, some cross-country course designers are putting horses at risk for damaging falls by incorporating "potentially dangerous" jumps. The study, undertaken by Ellen Singer, DVM, DVSc, Dipl. ACVS, ECVS, at the University of Liverpool, is the ... Read full story
 12/4/2008
Training Centers, Equipment Changes Discussed at Kentucky Racing Meeting  *
The possible regulation of training centers in Kentucky was the focal point of discussion Dec. 1 during a meeting of the safety and welfare committee of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC). While training centers are subject to an on-site visit by a KHRC staff member before being approved to have workouts from their facilities officially ... Read full story
 12/2/2008
Ride Along at the FEI World Endurance Championship   *
The first-ever FEI World Endurance Championship in Malaysia was held Nov. 7-8 in Terengganu. Meg Sleeper, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM, and her horse, Syrocco Reveille, competed on the team representing the United States. While the competition didn't work out as the squad had hoped, her journal entries provide an inside look at what it takes to transport and ... Read full story
 11/21/2008
Lightning, Illness Rein in U.S. Team at Endurance Championship  *
A cloud of bad luck hung over the U.S. squad at the first-ever FEI World Endurance Championship in Malaysia, held Nov. 7-8 in Terengganu. Of the six American riders, only two completed the 160-kilometer (99.4-mile), course, having endured a tropical thunderstorm, high humidity, and darkness in the first event to be held at night. The biggest scare ... Read full story
 11/19/2008
Suffolk Downs Bans Five Trainers Under Anti-Slaughter Rule   *
Holding fast to its zero tolerance policy toward horse slaughter, Suffolk Downs decided to ban five trainers who were involved--although all claim unknowingly--in an incident that violated the new code. Chip Tuttle, chief operating officer for East Boston, Mass., racetrack, said Nov. 13 officials received a call from an anonymous source a couple ... Read full story
 11/14/2008
Horse Sales Market Commentary: Tough Times   *
Disaster. Brutal. Blood bath. Just a few of the many descriptive words being used by breeders to describe the Keeneland November breeding stock sale, which at this writing still had a week to run. In light of the recessive global economy, everyone thought the sale, the largest of its kind in the world, would be down. But a drop of 10-20% was expected, ... Read full story
 11/12/2008
Sales Integrity Program Report: 163 Steroid Tests Requested  *
From the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association The Sales Integrity Program managed by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) released data compiling the number of exogenous anabolic steroid tests and ownership registry submissions for the Fasig-Tipton, Keeneland, and Ocala Breeders' Sales (OBS) Co. summer and fall yearling ... Read full story
 11/8/2008
No Breeders' Cup Positives for Steroids, EPO, TCO2  *
None of the horses that participated in this year's Breeders' Cup World Championships Oct. 24-25 at Santa Anita tested positive for steroids, blood-doping agents or TCO2 (bicarbonate), according to Pam Blatz-Murff, senior vice president of operations for the Breeders' Cup. However, as of Nov. 8 test results for any other prohibited substances were ... Read full story
 11/8/2008
Second Sound Horse Conference Planned for March 2009  *
Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH) has announced the details of the second national conference on ending soring of Tennessee Walking Horses and all gaited horse breeds. The conference will be held March 20 and 21, 2009, at the Paramount Plaza Hotel in Gainesville, Fla. The purpose of the conference is to bring together a wide complement of experts, research ... Read full story
 10/30/2008
Riding with Elmer Bandit  *
Elmer Bandit, the 37-year-old Half-Arabian who recently broke the record for competitive trail mileage, and his owner/rider Mary Anna Wood inspire me. I have known Elmer for eight years and have written about his career for TheHorse.com for the past six months. I competed in competitive trail for 10 years, but felt my 15-year-old Missouri Fox Trotter, ... Read full story
 10/29/2008
Breeders' Cup Trainers Weigh in on Artificial Surfaces  *
Though champion Curlin may not have handled the synthetic racing surface as well as some of his European rivals did in the $5-million Breeders' Cup Classic, Santa Anita Park's Pro-Ride racing surface performed safely during the two-day World Championships Oct. 24-25. As a small group of supporters of People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals protested ... Read full story
 10/28/2008
No Major Injuries, Heat Problems Reported Among Breeders' Cup Horses  *
Horsemen making their regular morning stops at Santa Anita's Clocker's Corner Oct. 26 were abuzz over the success of the two-day Breeders' Cup World Championships, the first ever run on an artificial surface. There were no reports of major injuries among the major participants, as winners and high-profile losers were reported to be in good shape. ... Read full story
 10/27/2008
Elmer Bandit Did It! 37-Year-Old Horse Sets New Mileage Record   *
Half-Arabian Elmer Bandit trotted under the finish line to set a new competitive trail mileage record of 20,720 miles, 201 days after his 37th birthday. The North American Trail Conference event took place Oct. 25-26 at Kanopolis State Park near Lindsborg, Kan. Elmer Bandit set a new record for lifetime competitive trail miles. A heavy frost ... Read full story
 10/27/2008
Alysheba to Return to U.S., Reside at Horse Park  *
Horse of the Year and Kentucky Derby winner Alysheba is returning to the United States from Saudi Arabia. He will reside in the Hall of Champions at the Kentucky Horse Park. According to a release from the Kentucky Horse Park, the public is invited to the Kentucky Horse Park for Alysheba's welcome home reception, Oct. 31 at 1:15 pm in the Hall of ... Read full story
 10/23/2008
Elmer Bandit Under Wraps as Cold Weather and Record Ride Approach  *
Elmer Bandit, the 37-year-old Half-Arabian on the verge of setting a new record for lifetime competitive mileage, in bundled up in preparation for this weekend's competitive trail event near Lindsborg, Kan. If Elmer completes the 60-mile ride, his lifetime mileage will reach 20,720, setting a new record. "Elmer's wearing his heavy winter blanket," ... Read full story
 10/23/2008
New York Bans Racehorse Steroids   *
New York is joining other states in cracking down on steroid use in horse racing, state regulators announced Oct. 14. "For the sake of the betting public, we want to do everything in our power to ensure that racing runs on a level playing field," said John Sabini, chairman of the New York State Racing and Wagering Board, in a statement. "By imposing ... Read full story
 10/15/2008
10-Year-Old Racehorse Evening Attire to be Honored at Belmont  *
After 69 starts, $2,977,130 in purses won, and nearly 80 miles of dirt and turf, the finish line for Evening Attire finally arrived last month with the announcement of his retirement. To honor the hugely popular 10-year-old gelding's career, the New York Racing Association will host "Evening Attire Day" at Belmont Park on Saturday, October 25. Highlighting ... Read full story
 10/15/2008
NTRA Announces Racing Safety Reforms, Independent Monitor  *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) officially unveiled a series of equine health and safety reforms Oct. 15 that will be overseen by an independent monitor. During the news conference in New York City, less than two weeks before the Breeders' Cup World Championships in California, the organization announced former four-term Wisconsin ... Read full story
 10/15/2008
Elmer Bandit Completes Another Ride; Within 50 Miles of Record   *
"Heat, humidity, and extra speed, coupled with steep hills, made Indian Cave a tough ride," commented competitor Lucy Hirsch, DVM, after finishing the Oct. 11-12 competitive trail ride. Hirsch rode alongside 37-year-old Half-Arabian Elmer Bandit, who's approaching the record for lifetime competitive miles. At the pulse and respiration checks, Elmer's ... Read full story
 10/13/2008
Whose Record is Elmer Bandit Trying to Break? More on Wing Tempo  *
As 37-year-old Half-Arabian Elmer Bandit trots toward a competitive trail lifetime record of 20,710 miles, set by Saddlebred Wing Tempo, one has to wonder: Who is Wing Tempo? Now 32, Wing Tempo lives a full and rewarding life teaching long-time owner Shirley Sobol's 6-year-old granddaughter, Sabrina Ortiz, to ride. Wing Tempo on his birthday ... Read full story
 10/11/2008
Magna Racetracks Announce Anti-Slaughter Policy  *
Magna Entertainment Corp. has formally adopted a company-wide policy promoting the humane treatment of racehorses, the company announced Oct. 10. Under the policy, any trainer or owner stabling at an MEC facility who directly or indirectly participates in the transport of a horse from a MEC facility to either a slaughterhouse or an auction house ... Read full story
 10/10/2008
Eventing Safety: Frangible Fence Development in the Works   *
A group of cross-country course designers are taking another step toward improving eventing safety. U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) President and licensed course designer David O'Connor and other designers and builders will join with faculty and students at the University of Kentucky, to form a multidisciplinary team to develop and demonstrate additional ... Read full story
 10/8/2008
International Racing Group Focuses on Synthetic Surfaces   *
Contrasting views on the future of synthetic tracks were expressed at the meeting of the International Federation of Horseracing Authorities in Paris on Oct. 6, following the Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe meeting at Longchamp. British opinion, expressed by Ian Renton, boss of Arena Leisure which owns three of Britain's all weather tracks--Lingfield, ... Read full story
 10/7/2008
Elmer Bandit Adds Another 60 Miles, Course Takes Toll on Competitors  *
Elmer Bandit, the 37-year-old Half-Arabian approaching the record for lifetime competitive miles, competed Oct. 4 and 5 in the Kansas Flint Hills Competitive Trail Ride north of Manhattan, Kan. Rocky conditions, steep climbs, and temperatures in the 80s combined to make it a tough weekend for many competitors--including Elmer. His completion time ... Read full story
 10/6/2008
NTRA to Introduce Racing Safety and Integrity Initiative   *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association will unveil its Safety and Integrity Initiative Oct. 15 and fully expects broad industry cooperation given progress made thus far, officials said Oct. 1. "The train leaves the station Oct. 15," NTRA president and chief executive officer Alex Waldrop said during a presentation at the International Simulcast ... Read full story
 10/2/2008
Authority Approves New Whip Rule for Harness Racing  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission approved a statewide ban on certain kinds of whips in harness racing. The commission on Monday unanimously approved the ban on whips and riding crops that have strands of material at the end called a snapper. Snappers have been known to leave severe welts on horses. The ban does not apply to Thoroughbred racing. ... Read full story
 9/23/2008
Imprint-Trained Trotting Filly Passes $1 Million Mark   *
Buck I St. Pat has been trotting along the road to glory since she was two days old. That was the first time that breeder Ron Fuller, DVM, hooked the Standardbred filly to an old goat cart and let her pull it around. "They'll follow their mother anywhere," Fuller says. "Or maybe, I should say, they'll follow their lunch anywhere." Five years later, ... Read full story
 9/21/2008
Jones Appeals Clenbuterol Suspension   *
Thoroughbred trainer Larry Jones has appealed a seven-day suspension and $500 fine levied by the stewards at Delaware Park in connection with the highly-publicized case in which the horse Stones River tested positive for the prohibited substance clenbuterol. John Wayne, executive director of the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission, said Jones ... Read full story
 9/20/2008
Equine Ambulance Hits the Road for Marion duPont Scott Center   *
They travel up to five hours one way to staff an event--and during the whole trip, they hope their services won't be needed when they get there. The five-member ambulance crew from Virginia Tech's Marion duPont Scott Equine Medical Center and their well-equipped rig provide emergency care and transport services to horses that incur injuries in steeplechase ... Read full story
 9/19/2008
Maryland Bans Racehorse Steroids  *
The Maryland Racing Commission has approved a ban on anabolic steroids for racehorses, following the lead of other racing states including Kentucky, Delaware, Pennsylvania and Virginia. The issue of steroids in horse racing saw increased public scrutiny this spring after Rick Dutrow Jr., the trainer of Big Brown, acknowledged using the anabolic steroid ... Read full story
 9/17/2008
Racetrack Injury Database Could Face Resistance  *
A new national racetrack injury database will have problems achieving widespread compliance without a large measure of anonymity and confidentiality, a Kentucky racetrack veterinarian said Sept. 15. "I think there is going to be a ton of resistance" to reporting injuries as long as the horse's name is included on the report, Foster Northrup, DVM, ... Read full story
 9/16/2008
37-Year-Old Horse Elmer Bandit Wins Competitive Trail Ride  *
Adding another 60 miles to his North American Trail Conference (NATRC) career, 37-year-old Elmer Bandit was declared the Open Sweepstakes division winner this past weekend at the Dave Smith Fall Fiesta competition near Lehigh, Iowa. "We had a grand time trotting," said Elmer's rider and lifetime owner Mary Anna Wood of Independence, Mo. "Elmer was ... Read full story
 9/15/2008
Canadian Researchers Focus on Racehorse Safety  *
Since the loss of Barbaro and Eight Belles, NBC's Roundtable on the horseracing industry at the 2008 Preakness Stakes, and the congressional hearing in June 2008, researchers are highlighting their efforts to improve racehorse safety and Canadian scientists are not to be left out. "The Ontario Veterinary College's Comparative Orthopaedic Research ... Read full story
 9/10/2008
Kentucky Governor Bans Steroids in Racehorses  *
Testing for anabolic steroids in racehorses in Kentucky will begin with the start of the Keeneland fall meet under emergency regulations signed by Gov. Steve Beshear Sept. 5. The regulations, approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission in August, are now in effect under the Beshear order. The regulations pertain to the commonly used steroids ... Read full story
 9/6/2008
Commentary: The Future of Racehorse Injury Prevention  *
I testified as part of the "Breeding, Drugs, and Breakdowns: The State of Thoroughbred Horseracing and the Welfare of the Thoroughbred Racehorse" Congressional hearing June 19. It was both disillusioning and enlightening. I naïvely thought I was invited along with three other veterinarians to talk about all the issues influencing fatal injuries in ... Read full story
 9/4/2008
Elmer Bandit, 37, Completes Another Ride, On Track for Record   *
Elmer Bandit, the 37-year-old Half-Arabian gelding nearing a lifetime competitive mileage record, boosted his mileage to 20,480 over Labor Day weekend after completing the Nebraska National Forest event. "Elmer loved trotting over the rock-free trails," reported his owner and rider, Mary Anna Wood of Independence, Mo. Elmer placed fourth in the open ... Read full story
 9/2/2008
Penn National to Suspend Racing for Track Resurfacing Project  *
Live racing and training at Hollywood Casino at Penn National Race Course will be suspended following the Sept. 20 racing program for a resurfacing project of the entire racetrack cushion. The unexpected shutdown of the Pennsylvania racetrack is believed to be due to track conditions that have resulted in a high number of recent catastrophic breakdowns, ... Read full story
 8/30/2008
Trainers Weigh in on Racehorse Shoe Regulations  *
Some leading New York trainers said a ban on toe grabs on racehorses' shoes will help level the playing field, but they're not all convinced the shoes are responsible for catastrophic injuries. The New York Racing Association in early August said it would ban the use of toe grabs with a height greater than two millimeters (.07874 inches) on front ... Read full story
 8/27/2008
Kentucky Panel Approves Ban on Racehorse Steroids  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission voted unanimously Aug. 25 to ban the use of anabolic steroids in racehorses, and the rules could be in place the first week of September should Gov. Steve Beshear sign an emergency regulation as expected. The KHRC amended recommendations from the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council, which voted Aug. 14 to regulate ... Read full story
 8/25/2008
37-Year-Old Horse Elmer Bandit Finishes Second at Competitive Trail Ride  *
Elmer Bandit, 37-year-old half-Arabian gelding, completed the Spotted Rump Ride Competitive Trail Event at Greensfelder Equestrian Park near St. Louis, Mo., Aug. 16 to boost his lifetime mileage to 20,420. Saddlebred Wing Tempo holds the current mileage record with 20,710 miles. Elmer and owner Mary Anna Wood at a ride earlier this year. Elmer ... Read full story
 8/18/2008
Thoroughbred Industry Round Table Focuses on Drug Testing, Safety  *
Calls to action aren't new to The Jockey Club Round Table conference, but at this year's meeting Aug. 17 in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., there appeared to be a sense of urgency. Public perception and the threat of federal intervention have a way of moving things along. In what a few attendees called the best Round Table in years, Thoroughbred industry ... Read full story
 8/18/2008
Eight Belles Memorial Service Sept. 7  *
This year's second-place Kentucky Derby finisher Eight Belles will be memorialized in a ceremony Sept. 7 at 2 p.m. in the Kentucky Derby Museum's gardens. "We hope our memorial service will serve as a lasting tribute to this great filly, and remind every visitor who walks through our doors of the incredible passion and ability she showed here in ... Read full story
 8/13/2008
Veterinary Updates from Hong Kong  *
Horses and riders initially appeared to have emerged unscathed from yesterday's eventing cross-country competition, but later it was learned that Keymaster, a Swedish team horse under Magnus Gallerdal, pulled up lame in his right foreleg. Keymaster was iced and wrapped. Back at the stable, radiographs revealed that the 15-year-old gelding of unspecified ... Read full story
 8/12/2008
Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program Fulfills Need   *
With the vision of a few caring people, in 2004 Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack in Farmington, N.Y., created the first Thoroughbred adoption facility run as a collaborative effort between racetrack management and local horsemen. They named it The Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program (FLTAP), and operated with a goal of safely retiring horses ... Read full story
 8/11/2008
Olympic Eventing: Cross-Country Wet, But a Bright Day for Sport   *
The good news is that the anxiously awaited eventing cross-country competition at the 2008 Olympic Games was a success, with careful planning and course design, the weather, and a dollop of luck combining to produce a four-hour contest with no "traffic accident" horrors, no exhausted horses or overcome riders, and no major incidents to tarnish the ... Read full story
 8/11/2008
AAEP's Walking Horse Directives Labeled Costly, Unrealistic  *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners' (AAEP) Tennessee Walking Horse Task (TWH) Force recommendations to eradicate the practice of soring drew strong reaction from Walking Horse industry members who label the directives costly and unrealistic. In a "white paper" issued on Aug. 8, the AAEP called for several changes in Walking Horse industry ... Read full story
 8/9/2008
HSUS Applauds AAEP White Paper on Horse Soring   *
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) today applauded recommendations set out in the American Association of Equine Practitioners' newly released white paper, "Putting the Horse First: Veterinary Recommendations for Ending the Soring of Tennessee Walking Horses." The Association's recommendations include: immediate implementation of a drug ... Read full story
 8/8/2008
Splitting Hairs: New Drug Test Uses Hair, Not Urine   *
German researcher Patricia Anielski is raising the bar when it comes to drug testing in horses. Anabolic steroids such as testosterone propionate can be detected in hair samples to identify current and even previous abuse of the substance. "Anabolic steroids such as testosterone propionate are capable of enhancing muscle growth and improving performance ... Read full story
 8/5/2008
Breeders' Cup Adopts Tough Steroids Rule  *
Trainers of horses that test positive for anabolic steroids at this year's Breeders' Cup World Championships at Santa Anita Park (Oct. 24-25) will face a one-year suspension from the event, and trainers who violate steroid regulations three times will face a lifetime ban from participating in Thoroughbred racing's season-ending championships, according ... Read full story
 8/3/2008
Big Brown to Run for ReRun in Haskell  *
ReRun, a nonprofit adoption program for ex-racehorses, announced that owners IEAH Stables and Paul Pompa Jr. will have Big Brown, winner of this year's Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands and Preakness (both gr. I), participate in the organization's "Running for ReRun" charity at the Haskell Invitational (gr. I) at Monmouth Park Aug. 3. According ... Read full story
 8/1/2008
Ohio State Veterinarian Faces Familiar Challenges at 2008 Olympics  *
Catherine Kohn, VMD, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, professor in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences at The Ohio State University, will be part of a multinational team of veterinarians caring for horses competing at the 2008 Olympics. While thousands of athletes, spectators, and staff will converge upon Beijing for the majority of the sporting events, ... Read full story
 8/1/2008
Synthetic Track Surfaces Discussed in New York  *
A cross-section of the racing industry addressed the New York Task Force on Retired Race Horses on the subject of synthetic surfaces at a one-day forum held July 29 at the Fasig-Tipton Sales Co. pavilion in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. Sixteen panelists, who comprised five moderated panels, spoke to 10 members of the task force and an audience of about ... Read full story
 7/30/2008
Horse Tripping Ban a Tough Sell in Some States  *
Nebraska's ban on horse tripping for sport went into effect July 18, but even as that state's authorities gear up to enforce the measure, similar legislation died on Arizona's Senate floor . "We had nearly unanimous support all the way through the state House and in the Senate," said Pat Haight, PhD, president of the Conquistador Equine Rescue and ... Read full story
 7/29/2008
First Batch of Olympic Horses Arrives in Hong Kong  *
The first batch of more than 200 horses taking part in next month's Olympic equestrian events arrived in Hong Kong on Saturday (July 26) to begin their acclimatization to the city's tropical heat, organizers said. Upon their arrival, the horses were immediately transported to the stables at the equestrian venues after undergoing preliminary quarantine ... Read full story
 7/26/2008
Special Report: Racehorse Durability  *
In this exclusive report, The Blood-Horse investigates whether the Thoroughbred racehorse is as tough today as it was 30 to 40 years ago. Editors of The Blood-Horse recently sought the answer to this question by producing a comprehensive review of 34 years of historical Thoroughbred stallion progeny records pulled from The Jockey Club's extensive database. ... Read full story
 7/24/2008
USEF, USEA Release Statement on Upcoming HBO Story on Eventing  *
The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and United States Eventing Association (USEA) today released a statement regarding the upcoming HBO Real Sports story on the equestrian sport of eventing. This story, entitled "Deadly Ride," will air July 22 at 10 p.m. The USEF/USEA statement follows: This Tuesday, July 22nd, @ 10pm, HBO Real Sports ... Read full story
 7/22/2008
Jockey Club Launches Racehorse Injury Database  *
The Jockey Club has launched the Equine Injury Database system that will provide the racing industry with its first national database of racing injuries. The Equine Injury Database grew out of a proposal first put forth at the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit in Lexington in October 2006. The primary objectives of the Equine Injury Database ... Read full story
 7/22/2008
Horsemen's Group Hosts Racehorse Welfare and Safety Forum   *
During a July 18 equine welfare and safety forum, Jay Hickey recalled that in 1982, legislation to regulate parts of the horseracing industry was circulated in the halls of Congress. The bill, which had the not-so-enticing name of the "Corrupt Horseracing Practices Act," dealt with prohibited drugs, pre-race testing, and penalties for offenders. Hickey, ... Read full story
 7/21/2008
Tail Blocking Gone Wrong  *
No one likes a rebellious horse, particularly in the show ring, and excessive tail swishing or wringing is often penalized by judges as a sign of resistance. To avoid this penalty, or simply to ensure low tail carriage, trainers and exhibitors sometimes have a show horse's tail area injected with a substance designed to temporarily paralyze the tail ... Read full story
 7/18/2008
Strategic Plan for Racehorse Safety in Works  *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association is formulating a "strategic plan" for equine health and safety and will seek support from various industry organizations when the document is released, probably in early fall. NTRA president and chief executive officer Alex Waldrop revealed the NTRA's intentions July 18 at the National Horsemen's Benevolent ... Read full story
 7/18/2008
Racehorse Anabolic Steroid Ban Recommended in Kentucky   *
A subcommittee of the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission has unanimously recommended that anabolic steroids be banned in horse racing in the state. "The use of anabolic androgenic steroids shall be banned in horses competing in pari-mutuel racing sporting events in the commonwealth of Kentucky," said the position statement approved July 16 by the Subcommittee ... Read full story
 7/17/2008
Understanding the USEF Equine Drugs and Medications Program  *
The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) is the national governing body for equestrian sport and is a member of the U.S. Olympic Committee. The USEF is responsible for enforcing the rules of 27 breeds and disciplines. Formerly this organization was known as the American Horse Shows Association (AHSA). The name may have changed, but the mission ... Read full story
 7/17/2008
Racetrack Group to Implement Safety Initiatives   *
Penn National Gaming Inc., second only to Magna Entertainment Corp. in terms of number of racetrack holdings in North America, said July 15 it has developed equine health and safety initiatives it hopes implement at all of its properties in six jurisdictions. The initiatives include limiting the height of toe grabs on front shoes worn by racehorses, ... Read full story
 7/16/2008
Kentucky Racing Group Approves Toe Grab Horseshoe Ban  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission July 14 unanimously approved regulations that would prohibit the use of horseshoes with toe grabs on front feet of horses racing in the state. The regulation, which still must go through a public comment period and be approved by an interim legislative committee, was recommended by the commission's health and ... Read full story
 7/15/2008
California Wildfires: Tevis Cup Endurance Race Cancelled  *
As a result of ongoing California wildfires, the 2008 Tevis Cup endurance race has been cancelled. The 100-mile ride, which was scheduled to take place July 19, draws entries from around the world. Although the fires are not on the trail at this time, officials have deemed air quality in the area dangerous to both equine and human competitors. Road ... Read full story
 7/10/2008
Purdue Researchers: New Technology Could Help Prevent Fractures in Horses  *
Researchers are developing a monitoring system similar to those used by earthquake seismologists to detect tiny cracks in bones, a technology that could help prevent fractures in humans and racehorses. The new monitoring system records "acoustic emission data," or sound waves created by the tiny bone fissures. The same sorts of acoustic emissions are ... Read full story
 7/7/2008
Funny Cide Gets the Last Laugh   *
This July 4th marks the one-year anniversary of Kentucky Derby winner Funny Cide's last race. The champion didn't rest on his laurels, though: just 48 hours after crossing the finish line for the last time, Funny Cide found himself employed in the same industry, but with a different job title. He became a pony horse. Funny Cide won $3,529,412 in ... Read full story
 7/4/2008
Racetrack Enacts Zero-Tolerance Slaughter Policy   *
Sending racehorses to slaughter will not be tolerated at Suffolk Downs racetrack in Boston. Track management will now deny trainers stalls if they sell a horse for slaughter. This latest move bolsters other efforts underway to protect Thoroughbred racehorses, including retirement funding already in place by the track and local horsemen. "I hope we ... Read full story
 7/3/2008
Racehorse Rehabilitator Helps Transition to New Careers  *
Hundreds of former racehorses owe their second careers to Leigh Gray. Manager of Dr. Don Shields' lay-up facility, Winner's Circle Ranch in Bradbury, Calif., Gray not only rehabilitates racehorses for a living, she does it in her spare time. Usually, Gray fixes up former claimers, geldings, and horses that might not have had a future without her ... Read full story
 7/2/2008
Olympic Horse Venues Show Focus on Comfort, Safety, Environment   *
As the equestrian events of the 2008 Olympic Games draw ever-closer, it is time to take a look at the venues and facilities provided by the Hong Kong Jockey Club (HKJC) which will ensure that the jumping, dressage, and eventing horses and riders compete in optimal conditions. Significant construction work, a world-class laboratory, 5-star stabling, ... Read full story
 7/1/2008
Making Racing Safer  *
Life is an extreme sport, complete with everyday risks. When it comes to Thoroughbred racing, the fate of horse and rider are linked in an event, the outcome of which is, by its very nature, in doubt. Win or lose, no one envisions the tragedy that can occur in the blink of an eye that ends the career or the life of horse or rider on the racetrack. ... Read full story
 7/1/2008
Understanding and Preventing Catastrophic Injuries  *
Following the euthanasia of filly Eight Belles, who suffered catastrophic injuries to both front legs a quarter mile after finishing second in the 2008 Kentucky Derby, members of every sector of the Thoroughbred industry have banded together to proactively address safety and welfare issues. In this article, representative members of the equine industry ... Read full story
 7/1/2008
Dutrow Responds to Suspension Relating to Clenbuterol  *
Trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. addressed the media at his own request June 27 outside his Aqueduct barn to set the record straight on his 15-day ban in Kentucky for an overage of the bronchodilator clenbuterol in Salute the Count, the runner-up of the Aegon Turf Sprint (gr.III) at Churchill Downs May 2. Dutrow was joined by Salute the Count's owner, Michael ... Read full story
 6/28/2008
On the Mend: Chelokee's Prognosis Good  *
Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, who in mid May said grade III winner Chelokee's chances of survival were at 60-40 after the colt dislocated his right front ankle, is now talking about the colt being released from Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington within weeks. "Chelokee is doing great," said Bramlage of the colt, who sustained his injuries ... Read full story
 6/28/2008
Eventing Safety: The Question of Rider Fitness   *
Could the level of physical fitness a rider brings to the saddle, considered along with the stamina and strength of the equestrian athlete, impact the way the horse moves and performs during an event or race? Equestrian trainers and researchers confirm this is true, and they recommend staying in peak physical condition as another way the rider can ... Read full story
 6/26/2008
Big Brown's Trainer Faces Clenbuterol Positive   *
A horse trained by Rick Dutrow tested positive for twice the allowable level of the bronchodilator clenbuterol, which helps burn fat and promote muscle growth, the New York Times reported June 25. The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority will issue the ruling June 25, suspend Dutrow for 15 days, and demand the horse's owner to return the $20,000 in purse ... Read full story
 6/25/2008
Jockey Suspended for Using Whip on Horse's Face  *
Jockey Jeremy Rose was suspended for six months following a stewards' hearing the morning of June 24 for whipping his mount Appeal to the City in the face during the third race at Delaware Park June 23. In the official ruling, Delaware Park stewards contended that Rose "engaged in extreme misuse of the whip during the stretch run while on the horse ... Read full story
 6/25/2008
Delaware Racing Group Makes Progress on Padded Whips  *
Approximately two and a half years ago, the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission began experimenting with changing jockeys' whips to a more humane variety with an extended and padded "popper," the portion of the whip that makes contact with the horse. The whips were introduced upon advice of Delaware Thoroughbred Commissioner, W. Duncan Patterson, ... Read full story
 6/24/2008
AAEP Supports Thoroughbred Safety Recommendations   *
The AAEP has endorsed the three initial recommendations of The Jockey Club's Thoroughbred Safety Committee. The committee announced its recommendations June 17, including the elimination of steroids in race training and racing, a ban on toe grabs, and a series of whip-related reforms, all aimed at improving safety and integrity in Thoroughbred racing. ... Read full story
 6/24/2008
Hearing Shows Thoroughbred Racing at Critical Point   *
Drugged equines, grisly catastrophic injuries, greedy breeders, damaged racehorses with nowhere to go, inaction and confusion, and industry leaders more concerned with holding onto power than doing the right thing--a congressional subcommittee heard it all June 19 during a hearing in Washington, D.C. An observer easily could come to the following ... Read full story
 6/20/2008
Racing Groups Have Say Before Washington Hearing  *
As the House Subcommittee on Commerce and Consumer Protection prepared for a June 19 hearing on the horseracing industry, groups continued to weigh in on various issues, including use of anabolic steroids in racehorses. On June 18, the Lexington-based Association of Equine Racetrack Veterinarians said it supports recommendations by The Jockey Club ... Read full story
 6/19/2008
Congress Debates Intervention into Racing Safety  *
Congress chided Big Brown's trainer for a lack of manners and the horse racing industry for failing to do enough to regulate itself. Then it threatened to pass legislation that would make the sport safer. Rick Dutrow's no-show did not sit well at Thursday's hearing on thoroughbred racing safety held by the Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer ... Read full story
 6/19/2008
Ban on Racehorse Steroids, Toe Grabs Recommended  *
The Thoroughbred Safety Committee announced June 17 that it is recommending the elimination of steroids in race training and racing, a ban on toe grabs, and a series of whip-related reforms, all aimed at improving safety and integrity in Thoroughbred racing. The recommendations are the first from the committee which was formed and announced by The ... Read full story
 6/18/2008
Bramlage, Chairman Explain Racehorse Safety Recommendations  *
Following the recommendations The Jockey Club's Thoroughbred Safety Committee made regarding the elimination of steroids, ban of toe grabs, and changes in whip usage, chairman Stuart Janney, along with American Association of Equine Practitioners veterinarian Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, addressed numerous inquiries from the media during a June ... Read full story
 6/18/2008
Special Report: Catastrophic Injuries  *
Following the euthanasia of the filly Eight Belles, who suffered catastrophic injuries to both front legs a quarter-mile after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby, members of every sector of the Thoroughbred industry have banded together to proactively address safety and welfare issues. The Horse: Your Guide To Equine Health Care is proud to present ... Read full story
 6/17/2008
Eventing Safety Summit: Frangible Pins, Necropsies to be Utilized  *
From the United States Equestrian Federation: The United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) and United States Eventing Association (USEA) Safety Summit took place on June 7-8, 2008 in downtown Lexington, Ky. More than 250 people from all corners of the country and all levels of the sport of eventing showed up to listen, voice their concerns, and ... Read full story
 6/16/2008
Congress Calls June 19 Hearing on Racing   *
The United States House Subcommittee on Commerce, Trade, and Consumer Protection has scheduled a hearing--"Breeding, Drugs, and Breakdowns: The State of Thoroughbred Horseracing and the Welfare of the Thoroughbred Racehorse"--for June 19 in Washington, D.C. According to a June 11 release from the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, the hearing ... Read full story
 6/12/2008
Dirty Jobs for Horses: Patrol Horse Meets Scantily Clad Cyclists  *
Standing 18 hands tall, the 6-year-old Thoroughbred/Percheron cross, Cody, escorted a group of bicyclists displaying, among other things, their right to protest in the front of the White House. The cyclists were part of the third annual World Naked Bike Ride. According to their Web site, the bikers are a grass-roots movement geared towards protesting ... Read full story
 6/12/2008
Floods Cause Cancellation of Elmer Bandit's Scheduled Ride  *
Elmer Bandit, the 37-year-old Half-Arabian gelding closing in on a lifetime competitive trail mileage record, is under the weather. No, he's not sick--his competitive trail career is literally under the weather. Specifically, torrential rains in Eastern Kansas have forced ride manager J. R. Kendall of Olathe, Kan., to postpone the competition Elmer ... Read full story
 6/10/2008
Horsemanship, Lack of Data Discussed at Eventing Safety Summit  *
Officials with the U.S. Eventing Association (USEA) and U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) collected input from the equestrian community on ways to improve eventing safety at a summit on June 7-8. Proposed solutions range from required pre-competition preventive veterinary checks to promoting rider education. The summit, held in Lexington, Ky., included ... Read full story
 6/10/2008
Eventing Rule Change will Apply at 2008 Olympics   *
The International Olympic Committee and the Bureau of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) have approved an eventing rule change proposed by the FEI eventing committee and safety subcommittee The new rule states that horses and riders will be eliminated after one fall at a fence in either cross country or show jumping. In the current rule ... Read full story
 6/6/2008
Big Brown Continues Triple Crown Quest   *
Big Brown hit the Belmont Park track early June 5 with a morning jog around the sloppy and sealed main track about 5:45 EDT. With Michelle Nevin aboard, the colt traveled through the paddock, out of the tunnel, and onto the main track. Nevin said afterward, "He was feeling pretty good, after just walking (June 4). It's a good thing. The fact he had ... Read full story
 6/5/2008
37-Year-Old Competitive Trail Horse Completes Another Ride  *
Elmer Bandit, a 37-year-old Half-Arabian gelding, completed the Indian Territory North American Trail Ride Conference (NATRC) ride over Memorial Day weekend, finishing in sixth place and bringing his lifetime mileage total to 20,360. The ride, held annually on the John Zink Ranch near Tulsa, Okla., started Saturday on a "perfect day to ride" according ... Read full story
 6/3/2008
Big Brown's Hoof Patch on Hold Until Friday  *
Big Brown's cracked left front hoof is improving with each passing day, so trainer Rick Dutrow Jr. is waiting until Friday to have a patch applied. Hoof specialist Ian McKinlay suggested putting the patch on Saturday, the morning of the Belmont Stakes, but Dutrow doesn't want to mess with it on what could be a history-making day. "This is just ... Read full story
 6/3/2008
Eight Belles to be Interred at Kentucky Derby Museum  *
Eight Belles, who finished second in the Kentucky Derby but suffered a catastrophic injury moments after the race, will be honored by Churchill Downs Inc. through a series of charitable contributions and initiatives, including the interment of her remains at the Kentucky Derby Museum. The announcement was made June 3 in conjunction with the filly's ... Read full story
 6/3/2008
Readers Respond: Challenging Feet   *
More than 1,000 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "Do you think Big Brown's hoof issues might be a factor in his bid for the Triple Crown?" Results were as follows: No: 75.35% (761) Yes: 24.65% (249) Read about his feet in: Big Brown's Feet Not So Bad, Farriers Say. Results of weekly polls from TheHorse.com ... Read full story
 6/2/2008
Two Graded Stakes Winners Retired Due to Suspensory Issues  *
Grade I winners Nobiz like Shobiz and Panty Raid have been retired due to suspensory problems. Stud plans are being decided for millionaire Nobiz Like Shobiz. A 4-year-old son of Albert the Great, Nobiz Like Shobiz scored his big win in last year's Wood Memorial Stakes. He earned a career total of $1,544,730 racing for his breeder, Elizabeth Valando. ... Read full story
 5/28/2008
Eventing Rule Changes Passed, Effective Immediately  *
The executive committee of the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF) met May 19 and approved several rule changes, to be implemented immediately. Effective immediately, the first fall of a competitor at obstacles on the cross-country course will result in elimination. The rule now reads: 1) EV141.1 (b) Cross-Country Scoring b. Falls - (1) First ... Read full story
 5/28/2008
Big Brown's Hoof Shows Improvement   *
Ian McKinlay, the farrier who has been treating Big Brown's quarter crack, said Monday morning the colt's left front foot has shown improvement and he and trainer Rick Dutrow remain confident the Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner will not be hampered by the injury. Big Brown, owned by IEAH Stables and Paul Pompa Jr., is slated to make a run to ... Read full story
 5/27/2008
Big Brown Has 'Slight' Quarter Crack  *
Big Brown, who will be seeking the coveted Triple Crown in the June 7 Belmont Stakes (gr. I), has a "slight" quarter crack on the inside of his left front foot, trainer Rick Dutrow said Sunday, May 25. The colt did not go to the track Saturday or Sunday. Dutrow said he noticed a small spot on the colt's foot Friday afternoon and notified hoof lameness ... Read full story
 5/26/2008
Options for Ex-Racehorses   *
Only a handful of racehorses continue racing for more than a few years. The most talented runners are retired to stud or join a broodmare band, but often horses must move out to make room for new prospects. The problem of what to do with ex-racehorses is ongoing, and several organizations have been created to help resolve this. Thoroughbred Retirement ... Read full story
 5/26/2008
California Horsemen Told to Stop Steroid Use  *
If your horse is being treated with anabolic steroids and you plan to race in California, the time to stop administering them is now. That's the word from Richard Shapiro, chairman of the California Horse Racing Board, and Rick Arthur, DVM, the agency's equine medical director. Rule changes that will reclassify the four most common types of anabolic ... Read full story
 5/25/2008
More Questions Than Answers on Racehorse Steroids  *
The complicated nature of regulating anabolic steroids in racehorses came to light May 20 when discussion among members of the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council and others seemed to indicate the easiest route is an all-out ban on the substances. Or is it? "This is a complicated subject," said David Nash, DVM, executive director of the Equine ... Read full story
 5/21/2008
Pacers Take to Polytrack for Road Test   *
Harness racing at Keeneland? Yes, there was, but it's not what you might think. Two exhibition races for Standardbred pacers were held at the Lexington racetrack the afternoon of May 21 to give the principals in a racetrack under construction in Alberta, Canada, an idea as to whether a synthetic surface can be used for both breeds. The Calgary track, ... Read full story
 5/21/2008
Event Horse Dies on Cross-Country at French CCI***   *
Nullabor, an 11-year-old Irish sport horse ridden by Clayton Fredericks of Australia, died Saturday while competing at the Saumur CCI*** in France, according to a statement on the event organizers' Web site. Fredericks told Britain's Horse and Hound the accident occurred while the horse was galloping between fences on the cross-country course. "It ... Read full story
 5/20/2008
Family of Rider Killed During Event Files Suit   *
The parents of a 17-year-old girl who died after she fell off her horse during an equestrian event two years ago have sued her former trainer, the sport's governing body, and others, claiming her death was caused in part by a dangerous course and a horse unfit to ride. The suit filed May 6 in Riverside County, Calif., Superior Court alleges negligence, ... Read full story
 5/19/2008
Scollay Hired as Kentucky Horse Racing Medical Director   *
During a meeting dominated by health and safety topics, the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) announced May 19 that Mary Scollay, DVM, has been appointed to the new position of equine medical director. Scollay, the senior veterinarian for Gulfstream Park and Calder Race Course in Florida, will begin her duties in July under a contract between ... Read full story
 5/19/2008
Gaming Board Supports Horse Health and Welfare Efforts  *
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board this week approved a resolution which supports efforts to invest in horse health and welfare. Commissioner Gary Sojka introduced the resolution and encouraged its passage as a way of showing the Board's support for equine health as a result of recent high-profile catastrophic injuries to Thoroughbred racehorses. "Pennsylvania's ... Read full story
 5/17/2008
Equine Welfare Key No Matter the Outcome  *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) is prepared for "every potential outcome" on Preakness Stakes (gr. I) day, but no matter the result, developments in the area of equine health and welfare in the coming weeks and months are of the utmost importance, the organization's president and chief executive officer said. A few days before ... Read full story
 5/17/2008
Big Brown's Feet Not So Bad, Farriers Say  *
(PHOTOS/VIDEO) Kentucky Derby winner Big Brown clearly owns some of the Thoroughbred industry's fastest feet. But many question their soundness, fueled by reports of layoffs, quarter cracks, and special shoes. His current farriers Tom Curl and Ian McKinlay gave us the real story on his feet, special pads, and how he went from stall rest to the Roses ... Read full story
 5/16/2008
Thoroughbred Safety Committee Convenes  *
The Jockey Club's Thoroughbred Safety Committee convened for its initial meeting via teleconference May 14 to discuss the goals and objectives of the committee and to set meeting dates and timelines for the future. All seven members had reviewed documents and recommendations that came out of the two Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summits in ... Read full story
 5/15/2008
Eight Belles' Necropsy Report Released  *
Eight Belles, the filly who suffered a catastrophic injury after finishing second in the Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs May 3, had compound fractures of both front legs at the fetlock joints, a necropsy report released May 15 concluded. The necropsy, ordered by the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority, found no pre-existing bone abnormalities, said ... Read full story
 5/15/2008
Rider Injured at Rolex Released from Hospital  *
The rider seriously injured when her horse crashed into a fence at the Rolex Three-Day Event in Lexington was released from the hospital on Tuesday. University of Kentucky Hospital spokeswoman Whitney Hale said 24-year-old Laine Ashker was released 2 1/2 weeks after she was hurt on April 26. She had broken ribs, a broken jaw, collarbone and shoulder ... Read full story
 5/14/2008
Vets Discuss Catastrophic Injuries on Horse Radio Show  *
Ric Redden, DVM, founder of the International Equine Podiatry Center in Versailles, Ky., Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, FRCVS, DSc, DrMedVet (hc), Dipl. ACVS, Barbara Cox Anthony Chair and director of Orthopaedic Research at Colorado State University, and Mark Markel, DVM, PhD, associate dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of ... Read full story
 5/13/2008
Racing Industry Opinion: Healing the Wounds   *
There were 417 races run on the flat in North America May 3, but only one captured the attention of the public. Normally that attention would be in celebration of the Kentucky Derby winner, but this year the attention came in the form of criticism due to the tragic catastrophic breakdown suffered by second-place finisher Eight Belles. The industry ... Read full story
 5/13/2008
Aortic Rupture Cited in O'Connor Event Horse Death  *
According to a statement released on the U.S. Eventing Association (USEA) Web site, preliminary necropsy findings on the horse Tigger Too, a 17-year-old gelding, show that he passed away from an acute abdominal aortic rupture. Final necropsy results are pending. Tigger Too died while competing at this weekend's Jersey Fresh CCI***. The horse was ... Read full story
 5/12/2008
Chelokee Continues to Improve  *
Chelokee, who dislocated his right front ankle during the Alysheba Stakes on the Kentucky Oaks undercard May 2 at Churchill Downs continues to improve at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, according to Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS. "Everything is going as well as hoped for," Bramlage said. "He continues to do well." The colt's chances ... Read full story
 5/12/2008
NTRA Calls for 'Urgency' In Addressing Safety Matters  *
The National Thoroughbred Racing Association continues to coordinate equine health and safety initiatives in response to the death of the filly Eight Belles, and on May 9 called for "urgency" and an end to the "status quo." The NTRA board of directors, during the special meeting, reviewed current Thoroughbred industry policies and communication programs. ... Read full story
 5/10/2008
Horse Industry: Don't Discount Animal Rights and Welfare Groups  *
Although their views and actions may at times be considered extreme and bizarre by some, animal rights and welfare groups have a large constituency, have proven effective at making their point, and shouldn't be disregarded when they seize on an issue, officials said. Two organizations--the Humane Society of the United States and People for the Ethical ... Read full story
 5/9/2008
Derby Death Spurs Action by Thoroughbred Groups  *
In the wake of the fatal injury sustained by filly Eight Belles in the May 3 Kentucky Derby, The Jockey Club has commissioned a seven-member Thoroughbred Safety Committee, and the National Thoroughbred Racing Association (NTRA) board of directors has scheduled a special meeting May 9 to discuss a course of action. Jockey Club chairman Ogden Mills ... Read full story
 5/8/2008
Racing Authority Responds to Animal Rights Groups' Objections  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority released a statement May 5 regarding Eight Belles, who was injured and subsequently euthanized after the May 3 Kentucky Derby. It followed demands by People for Ethical Treatment of Animals for changes in the horseracing industry. "We are saddened by the loss of Eight Belles during the 134th running of the Kentucky ... Read full story
 5/6/2008
Animal Rights Groups Target Eight Belles' Injury   *
In the wake of the death of the filly Eight Belles as she galloped out after the May 3 Kentucky Derby, animal rights organizations are publicly calling for changes--some of them drastic--for the horseracing industry. The group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, commonly referred to as PETA, has asked the racing industry to "stop racing ... Read full story
 5/6/2008
Chelokee's Surgery Goes 'Very Well'  *
Chelokee, who dislocated his right front ankle May 2 at Churchill Downs, underwent surgery that "went very well" May 5 at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, according to Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS. He added that "everything had gone as planned," so far, in the 4-year-old colt's recovery. Chelokee Bramlage fused the Chelokee's ... Read full story
 5/6/2008
PETA Demonstrates; Could Pursue Charges   *
A spokeswoman for People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), which staged a peaceful demonstration May 6 in front of the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority office near Lexington, said similar demonstrations are planned for upcoming Triple Crown events. Meanwhile, the organization said it may attempt to get cruelty charges filed against the connections ... Read full story
 5/6/2008
Eight Belles' Injury Raises Questions About Racing Industry  *
A day after Big Brown blazed across the finish line, the snapshot of Eight Belles down on the dirt set off a raging debate that extended far beyond the Kentucky Derby: Is horse racing now facing an image crisis? With the memory of Barbaro still fresh, Eight Belles' catastrophic injury Saturday put increasing focus on a sport already trying to overcome ... Read full story
 5/5/2008
Can You Hear Me Now? Earplugs for Equines  *
Horses' ears are notoriously sensitive; it seems they can detect the "snap" of a carrot or the rattle of a grain scoop from the far end of the pasture. The delicate internal auditory structures of the horse are designed to help him pick up the slightest hint of a physical threat (or dinner) and--just as we would shield our own ears at a rock concert ... Read full story
 5/4/2008
Kentucky Derby Filly Eight Belles 'Went Out in Glory'  *
A tearful Larry Jones said Eight Belles, who suffered a catastrophic injury in the gallop-out after finishing second in the Run for the Roses, said there would be no second-guessing in what he called an "unfortunate" outcome that couldn't be foreseen. Eight Belles, owned by Rick Porter, ran a spectacular race in the May 3 Kentucky Derby at Churchill ... Read full story
 5/4/2008
The Steroid Debate  *
"Steroid" use has made headlines because of abuse in human athletes for the past decade, from Major League Baseball to track and field events. The topic has also become hot in the horse industry, from steroid use for bulking up young horses in sales, to attempting to enhance performance of show horses and racehorses. However, not all steroids are the ... Read full story
 5/1/2008
Eventing Safety: Joint Letter from USEF and USEA Leaders   *
David O'Connor, president of the U.S. Equestrian Federation (USEF), and Kevin Baumgardner, president of the U.S. Eventing Association (USEA), released April 29 a letter concerning safety in eventing. The authors invited all members of the equestrian community to attend a USEF/USEA Safety Summit to be held in Lexington, Ky., June 7-8, and to e-mail ... Read full story
 4/30/2008
37-Year-Old Horse Completes First Competitive Ride of the 2008 Season  *
Nineteen days after turning 37 years old, Half-Arabian Elmer Bandit and owner/breeder Mary Anna Wood crossed the timing line on Sunday to complete his first Open Competitive Trail Ride (CTR) of 2008. Less than two hours later he vetted out sound and brought his CTR mileage total to 20,300. Elmer's lifetime mileage record is 410 miles short of the record ... Read full story
 4/28/2008
Second Rolex Horse Euthanized   *
The Quiet Man, a 12-year-old Irish gelding, was euthanized today after sustaining an injury during the cross-country portion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day event. The horse, ridden by Sarah Hansel, fractured his distal scapula and the shoulder joint of his right front leg, according to a statement released by Catherina Kohn, VMD, veterinary delegate ... Read full story
 4/27/2008
Rider in Hospital, Horse Euthanized After Accident at Rolex Event  *
Equestrian Laine Ashker and her mount, Frodo Baggins, were both injured this afternoon in an accident during the cross-country portion of the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event. The horse, a 12-year-old black Thoroughbred from New Zealand, was euthanized. Frodo Baggins hit the fifth jump on the course and somersaulted over the obstacle, falling on Ashker. ... Read full story
 4/26/2008
Hanging At Home with Rags to Riches  *
One year ago, Rags to Riches was a superstar on the racetrack and the favorite to win the Kentucky Oaks. Today, she is an expectant mother spending her retirement days at Ashford Stud near Versailles, Ky. Rags to Riches, owned by Michael Tabor, an associate of Coolmore Stud principal John Magnier, and trained by Todd Pletcher, was retired from racing ... Read full story
 4/24/2008
Derby Hopeful War Pass Sidelined by Injury  *
Robert LaPenta's War Pass, the champion 2-year-old of 2007 and winner of the $2 million Bessemer Trust Breeders' Cup Juvenile at Monmouth Park, has suffered a leg injury that has knocked the colt out of the $2 million guaranteed Kentucky Derby. Trainer Nick Zito said Saturday that X rays had revealed a small fracture in the sesamoid in the colt's ... Read full story
 4/20/2008
Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program Unveiling New Facility   *
The Finger Lakes Thoroughbred Adoption Program (FLTAP) will officially unveil its new adoption facility April 18. The group's new headquarters is located on the grounds of Finger Lakes Gaming and Racetrack in Farmington, N.Y. The Purple Haze Center, FLTAP's new facility, is named in honor of Purple Haze Stable's Wanda Polisseni, who contributed toward ... Read full story
 4/16/2008
Heart Murmurs: No Impact on Racing Performance in New Study  *
According to a group of researchers from the United Kingdom, heart murmurs are common in athletic horses, but do not negatively impact racing performance. "A high prevalence of heart murmurs is known to exist in horses," explained Lesley Young, BVSc, PhD, DVA, Dipl. ECEIM (European College of Equine Internal Medicine), DVC, MRCVS, an equine cardiologist ... Read full story
 4/15/2008
Welfare and Safety Summit Racehorse Injury Numbers Revised   *
The catastrophic injury rates presented by Mary Scollay, DVM, at the March 17 Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit have been revised after a thorough review. The review established that the catastrophic injury reports actually covered longer periods of time with more races and total starts than was previously reported. In addition, further ... Read full story
 4/10/2008
37-Year-Old Horse Closing in on Trail Mileage Record  *
Pushing the envelope of equine athletic prowess, 37-year-old half-Arabian Elmer Bandit is gearing up to start yet another competitive trail ride season. In 2007 Elmer's certified lifetime competitive miles stood at 20,240, nearing the national record of Saddlebred Wing Tempo's 20,710 miles. Elmer's lifelong owner and rider, Mary Anna Wood of Independence, ... Read full story
 4/6/2008
Aqueduct Cancels Races to Protect Surface  *
Due to heavy overnight rains continuing into April 4, the New York Racing Association canceled live racing at Aqueduct yesterday in an effort to preserve the racing surface for today's Wood Memorial program. Aqueduct remained open for full-card simulcasts. "The main track is tight and in good shape, but factoring in that it only opened for racing ... Read full story
 4/5/2008
Readers Respond: Racehorse Awareness  *
More than 1,400 readers of TheHorse.com responded to a poll asking, "What do you think is the most pressing issue facing the welfare and safety of racehorses?" Results were as follows: Injury Rates: 60.33% (853) Medication/steroid issues: 35.01% (495) Environment and lifestyle: 28.36% (401) Trainer and handler education and licensing: ... Read full story
 4/4/2008
On Display: Keep Expo Horses Healthy   *
Although the stress of exposition environments might be unavoidable, according to several exposition professionals, its effects on horses can be reduced through careful selection of the horses that will be participating and management at the event. Transportation, unfamiliar surroundings, and crowds of people can place horses at greater risk for ... Read full story
 4/3/2008
Steroid Regulation Efforts Turning a Corner   *
Anyone who caught the opening comments of the March 26 medication roundtable in Austin, Texas, but left early and returned at its conclusion would have thought the worst--an industry meeting on the divisive topic of use of drugs in racehorses had finally come to physical blows. The meeting at the historic Driskill Hotel began with Ed Martin, president ... Read full story
 3/27/2008
Event Horse Euthanized after Accident   *
Task Force, a 16-year-old Australian Thoroughbred who represented the United States in several international competitions, was euthanized Saturday after sustaining a catastrophic hind leg injury. According to a statement released by the United States Equestrian Federation, the injury occurred during the warm up at the Southern Pines II Horse Trials ... Read full story
 3/24/2008
Belmont-Winning Filly Rags to Riches Retired   *
Edited press release It was announced March 24 that 2007 Belmont Stakes winner and 2007 champion 3-year-old filly Rags to Riches has been retired from racing and will head to Ashford Stud where she will be bred to champion sire Giant's Causeway. Rags to Riches with Garrett Gomez after their Kentucky Oaks victory. In 2007, Rags to Riches made ... Read full story
 3/24/2008
Lessons from Barbaro  *
Barbaro first captured America's imagination, then its heart. "People thought a superstar was on the horizon" after Barbaro's easy win in the Kentucky Derby, said Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, the veterinary surgeon who headed the team that attempted to save Barbaro's life after a catastrophic injury in the Preakness Stakes. The presentation, ... Read full story
 3/23/2008
Virginia: Free Pre-Race Steroids Tests  *
The Virginia Racing Commission will offer free pre-race testing for anabolic and androgenic steroids in horses that race at Colonial Downs this year. The commission, at its March 19 meeting, unanimously adopted regulations and penalties for steroids in racehorses. The regulations will be in place by the end of April and prior to the June 6 opening ... Read full story
 3/22/2008
'Healthy Discussion' at Racehorse Safety Summit  *
The second Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit concluded March 18 with the 62 participants releasing action plans on how to improve various aspects of the Thoroughbred industry. Some of the recommendations could prove difficult to execute, such as the call to coordinate all research regarding equine injuries and/or fatalities on all racing ... Read full story
 3/20/2008
Racing Medication Group Moving Ahead with Steroid Work  *
The Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) will hold its spring board of directors meeting March 25 in conjunction with the Association of Racing Commissioners International annual convention in Austin, Texas. The RMTC will receive an update on regulation of anabolic steroids from its Scientific Advisory Committee, and also participate in ... Read full story
 3/20/2008
HSUS Offering Reward for Information on Horse Soring  *
The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) will offer a reward of $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of any violator of Tennessee's horse soring law, which prohibits the deliberate infliction of pain to horses' feet and legs to produce an artificially high-stepping gait. Advertisements announcing the reward will appear ... Read full story
 3/19/2008
Cardiopulmonary-Related Problems Cited in Horse Deaths at Florida Event  *
The sport of eventing lost two equine athletes during the cross-country phase of Red Hills Horse Trials CIC***-W in Tallahassee, Fla., on March 15. Jonathan Holling’s 1996 bay Irish Thoroughbred gelding Direct Merger, owned by Janet Olsen, collapsed and died on the CIC*** course. Missy Miller’s Connemara gelding Rowdy Boy fell while negotiating fence ... Read full story
 3/18/2008
Racehorse Welfare and Safety Summit Concludes  *
Participants from the Thoroughbred breeding and racing industry who attended the second Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit in Lexington, Ky., on March 17 and 18 drafted action plans in seven areas to improve conditions in a multitude of areas of the Thoroughbred industry. The seven focus areas are: track surfaces; marketing of the racing ... Read full story
 3/18/2008
Second Racehorse Welfare and Safety Summit Approaching  *
The second Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit, slated for March 17-18 at Keeneland, will be an event to focus on new approaches to solving industry issues, as well as continuing the discussion of progress on topics brought up at the first meeting in October 2006. At the March 17 morning session from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m EDT, there will be reports ... Read full story
 3/12/2008
Shoulder Blade Stress Fractures in Thoroughbred Racehorses  *
Although it's not a common injury, fracture of the scapula or shoulder blade does occur in horses and causes notable lameness. At the 2007 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 1-5 in Orlando, Fla., Stuart Vallance, BVSc (Hons), of Shotter & Byers Equine Veterinary Services in Surrey, United Kingdom, presented a retrospective ... Read full story
 3/10/2008
Pennsylvania Racehorse Test Results: 98.8% Steroid-Free   *
Nearly all of the more than 2,000 samples tested for anabolic steroids in Pennsylvania racehorses during a two-month period came back negative, state officials said March 4. A model rule for regulation of steroids in Pennsylvania will be enforced beginning April 1. The Pennsylvania Horse Racing Commission and Pennsylvania Harness Racing Commission ... Read full story
 3/5/2008
California Racing Group to Turn Over Necropsy Results  *
The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) has agreed to pay owner Jerry Jamgotchian $19,440 in attorney fees and costs, as well as turn over necropsy submission forms for horses that died on California racetracks in 2006 and part of 2007, following an order by a Los Angeles Superior Court judge. Jamgotchian's open records request, initially made June ... Read full story
 2/29/2008
Off to the Races: Improved Surgery for "Bad Throats" Safe and Effective  *
Thoroughbred racehorses with obstructed respiratory tracts due to inflammation of the arytenoid cartilage or failed tiebacks treated via unilateral partial arytenoidectomy--a surgical technique that resolves the obstruction--are likely to return to racing within six months of the operation with few postoperative complications. According to co-author ... Read full story
 2/23/2008
ASPCA Investigating New York Carriage Horse Death  *
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), in looking into the Feb. 7 death of a carriage horse in his stable, has been asked to file a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request with the New York City Department of Health, in order to obtain the horse's veterinary and other records. "ASPCA Humane Law Enforcement agents ... Read full story
 2/11/2008
Racehorse Identification More than Flipping Lips  *
A weekly feature found only on BloodHorseNOW.com, The "Inside Track" is dedicated to the people in Thoroughbred racing that may not always make the headlines, but nevertheless are vitally important to the sport. It has been nearly 20 years since one of the most notorious identity mix-ups in American Thoroughbred racing raised eyebrows. By now, ... Read full story
 2/11/2008
Indiana Sticking with Racehorse Steroid Regulation Plan   *
Indiana is moving forward with plans to implement regulation and testing of anabolic steroids in racehorses April 1. There has been much talk regarding the uniform implementation of anabolic steroid regulations around the country. While the debate has been heated at times, several jurisdictions, including Indiana, plan to proceed with testing in ... Read full story
 2/5/2008
Pro-Ride Touts Liquid Binder to Fix Track Surface Drainage Program  *
Ian Pearse of Pro-Ride Racing Australia stands ready to begin fixing Santa Anita's beleaguered Cushion Track surface as soon as the final race is completed Feb. 3. "On Sunday afternoon after the races, we'll harrow the track and break up the hard material underneath (below the Cushion Track and above the asphalt)," Pearse said. "Then we'll be applying ... Read full story
 2/2/2008
Retired Racehorses to Participate in Texas A&M Study   *
More than 100 horses currently being cared for by the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) will take part in a study at Texas A&M University that will attempt to identify genes in horses predisposed to fractures and catastrophic injuries. "We're looking for some kind of genetic trait that may make the difference," said Jana Caldwell, a PhD ... Read full story
 1/29/2008
Second Racehorse Welfare Summit to Examine Progress   *
The second Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit, set for Monday, March 17, and Tuesday, March 18, at the Keeneland Sales Pavilion in Lexington, Ky., will feature wide-ranging discussions of critical equine health- and safety-related issues, including progress reports from the working committees established coming out of the original summit in ... Read full story
 1/25/2008
Cohesive Rules for Racehorse Steroids Sought  *
The head of a major horsemen's group in the United States has proposed a national approach for regulation of anabolic steroids in racehorses with an implementation date of Jan. 1, 2009. Roughly 10 jurisdictions around the country are preparing to begin testing for steroids this spring. Most have adopted or will adopt all or part of the model rule ... Read full story
 1/11/2008
BEVA 2007: Students Win Clinical Research Awards at BEVA  *
Each year at the British Equine Veterinary Association Congress (BEVA), the organization awards prizes to top student presentations in the clinical research portion of the program. The 2007 award winners’ talks were both rooted in orthopedics, and both received the award for their practical relevance to veterinarians. Low-Field MRI and the FetlockCeri ... Read full story
 1/10/2008
Racing Officials, Legislators Discuss Racehorse Steroids  *
An impending Congressional hearing on steroid use in Major League Baseball--and the possibility the inquiry could expand to other sports--has led the Thoroughbred racing industry to take preemptive action on Capitol Hill. Representatives of the horse racing industry met Jan. 8 with legislative staff members in Washington, D.C., to update them on ... Read full story
 1/9/2008
Risk Factors for Catastrophic Fractures  *
At the American Association of Equine Practitioner's Blue-Ribbon Panel Research Meeting in Ft. Collins, Colo., Ellen Singer, DVM, DVSc, Dipl. ACVS and ECVS, MRCVS (epidemiology), of the University of Liverpool, discussed identifying risk factors that contribute to fatal distal limb fractures in the racing horse. The most common fracture sites include ... Read full story
 12/24/2007
Kentucky Moves to Regulate Racehorse Steroids  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) supports the regulation of anabolic steroids in racehorses in the state, and took the first step toward drafting and adopting the revised model rule offered by the Association of Racing Commissioners International and Racing Medication and Testing Consortium during a Dec. 17 meeting. The first step toward ... Read full story
 12/18/2007
Synthetic Surfaces: Special Report   *
Perhaps no other sport is as bound to tradition as racing Thoroughbreds. From the sheer length of its history, to the grand old venues in which it takes place, to the top-hatted and red-suited bugler calling the horses to post, racing loves its time-honored habits. Normally, it embraces radical changes like a child takes to brussels sprouts. Sure, ... Read full story
 12/15/2007
Delaware Park Banning Racehorse Steroid Use   *
Efforts by regulators in the Mid-Atlantic region to ban the use of steroids in racehorses continued Dec. 14 with an announcement by the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission that the substances would be outlawed when Delaware Park opens for live racing in 2008. Commission executive director John Wayne told the Delaware Department of Agriculture, ... Read full story
 12/14/2007
Transcript: Talkin' Horses with Equine Surgeon Dr. Larry Bramlage  *
Equine surgeon Larry R. Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, joined readers for Thursday's edition of BloodHorse.com's "Talkin' Horses" sponsored by ExclusivelyEquine.com. He was the featured guest online at BloodHorse.com/talkinhorses on Thursday, Dec. 15, at noon ET. Bramlage is a past president of the American Association of Equine Practioners (AAEP), and ... Read full story
 12/14/2007
ASPCA Supporting Proposed Ban on NYC Horse Carriages  *
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) will support Councilman Tony Avella's proposed bill to ban carriage horses from New York City streets. The bill is scheduled to be introduced at a meeting of the city council next Tuesday, December 11. "As the primary enforcer of New York City's carriage horse laws, the ASPCA can ... Read full story
 12/10/2007
Horse Race Fixing Alleged at Delaware Park  *
A small sponge was inserted in the nostril of a horse at Delaware Park in an attempt to fix a race in October, State Police said. Detectives are investigating the incident in which a small sponge was found in the nostril of 2-year-old filly Marens Meadow, Cpl. Jeff Whitmarsh, a state police spokesman, said Wednesday. The sponge would hamper a horse's ... Read full story
 12/6/2007
Racing Symposium Panel Participants Approve of Synthetic Surfaces  *
Synthetic racing surfaces were given a resounding vote of confidence from racetrack executives and track superintendents Dec. 6, at the University of Arizona's Symposium on Racing and Gaming. The panel, moderated by Churchill Downs racing communications vice president John Asher, consisted of Robert Elliston, president and CEO of Turfway Park; Craig ... Read full story
 12/6/2007
FEI Initiating Thermographic Exams to Prevent Show Jumper Abuse Technique  *
The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) recently approved new measures to ensure the legs of high-level jumping horses are not being intentionally sensitized to pain in order to provide a competitive advantage. Beginning in 2008, official veterinarians will be employing heat-sensing equipment and examining legs for evidence of this abuse. The ... Read full story
 11/30/2007
Mid-Atlantic Racehorse Steroids Ban Official  *
As expected, states in the Mid-Atlantic region have announced they are working to implement a ban on anabolic steroids in racehorses effective April 1, 2008. The regulations in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia will employ the model rule devised by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium and endorsed by ... Read full story
 11/30/2007
Horse and Rider Die After Florida Jumping Accident  *
An British woman died after her horse stumbled during a cross-country jumping event and crushed her on Saturday. Eleanor Brennan, 21, was competing in the 2007 Horse Trials, an international horse event, at the Florida Horse Park, a statement from the Marion County Sheriff's Office said. Brennan was riding an 11-year-old horse named Mister Barnabus. ... Read full story
 11/18/2007
California's Golden Gate Fields Unveils Synthetic Racing Surface  *
Northern California horsemen are hoping that Tapeta Footings will put the bounce back in their racing circuit. To unanimous endorsement by those on hand Nov. 7, Magna Entertainment's Golden Gate Fields unveiled its new $10-million synthetic track on opening day of the fall/winter meet. The 66-year-old bayside landmark became the fourth major track ... Read full story
 11/9/2007
Barbaro's Owners, Breeders of George Washington, React to Breeders' Cup Injury   *
Roy and Gretchen Jackson had not seen George Washington since he was a yearling. Still, when they watched the Breeders' Cup Classic from their Pennsylvania home Oct. 27 and saw the 4-year-old colt sustain the injury that led to his euthanasia, they were overcome with sadness. In 2003 the Jacksons bred George Washington in Ireland in the name of ... Read full story
 10/29/2007
Diagnosis and Treatment of Hock Lameness  *
Cutting horse serves as a perfect model for the discussion of hock lameness, noting that no other discipline places more stress and torque on the hocks than what these horses experience, said Jerry Black, DVM, of Pioneer Equine Hospital in Oakdale, Calif., at the AAEP Focus meeting in Ft. Collins, Colo., on July 31. Inflammation of the lower rows ... Read full story
 10/28/2007
Racing Medication Group Refocusing on Drug Testing, Uniformity  *
After nearly five years in existence, the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium is refocusing on some of its core goals such as uniform rules, drug research, and standardizing drug-testing procedures in the United States. Included as part of the RMTC board meeting in Lexington Oct.16-17 was a strategic planning session that focused "on adoption ... Read full story
 10/23/2007
Indiana to Regulate Steroids; Questions Raised  *
The Indiana Horse Racing Commission voted unanimously Sept. 27 to adopt regulations on use of anabolic steroids in racehorses developed by the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium and endorsed by the Association of Racing Commissioners International. The rules are scheduled to take effect Jan. 1, 2008. The IHRC will establish concentration limits ... Read full story
 10/1/2007
Cushion Track Gets Thumbs-Up at Opening of Oak Tree Meet  *
Safety was the watchword as Santa Anita became the third and final major Southern California racetrack to unveil its synthetic surface. Though Santa Anita's times Sept. 26--the opening day of the Oak Tree Racing Association meeting--were sprightly as opposed to the somewhat slow times this summer at Del Mar on Polytrack, horsemen praised the new surface ... Read full story
 9/28/2007
Second 'Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse' Summit Planned   *
Participants from the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit announced a second summit is scheduled for March 17-18, 2008, at Keeneland. In addition, members on Sept. 20 provided updates on a variety of summit-inspired initiatives. "In the 11 months since the original summit, each working group has made considerable progress toward promoting ... Read full story
 9/20/2007
HSUS Releases Statement on NYC Carriage Horse Death   *
In light of the recent death of a carriage horse in New York City, the Humane Society of the United States reiterated its call for more humane working conditions, and suggested removing horses from congested city streets and implementing the recommendations of City Comptroller William Thompson's recent audit. On Friday, a horse became spooked, broke ... Read full story
 9/18/2007
Officials to Investigate Horse Deaths at Endurance Ride   *
The American Endurance Ride Conference (AERC) will investigate the deaths of the two horses that were hit by a car after crossing the finish line on day seven of the Great Santa Fe Trail Horse Ride, said AERC President Mike Maul. The investigation will be conducted independently of the insurance investigation into the incident. Rider Teresa Wilcox ... Read full story
 9/14/2007
Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Web Site Updated  *
The Web site reporting progress stemming from the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit has been updated to incorporate progress from committees, articles on equine health, research news, industry links, and a newsletter. "The committees that arose from the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit have accomplished a great deal over the ... Read full story
 9/12/2007
ASPCA Issues Statement on NYC Carriage Horse Report   *
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) released a statement Sept. 6 praising the New York City Comptroller's recently released Audit Report on the Licensing and Oversight of the Carriage Horse Industry by the departments of Health and Mental Hygiene and Consumer Affairs. "The ASPCA welcomes the City's recognition of ... Read full story
 9/9/2007
Audit Criticizes NYC Carriage Horse Conditions   *
The horses that pull tourists on leisurely carriage rides through Central Park are working without enough water, shade, or oversight from authorities, a city report says. City agencies haven't kept up with required veterinary checks and carriage inspections, and the horses work in sometimes shoddy conditions, according to the audit issued Wednesday ... Read full story
 9/6/2007
'Polytrack Lab' Turfway Has More Data, Answers  *
Opening night, Sept. 5, will mark the two-year anniversary of the debut of Polytrack at Turfway Park. The surface, save for maintenance and some tweaking of content, is about as even from the inner rail to the outer rail today as it was in 2005. But life with a synthetic track also has had its ups and downs. Turfway was the first facility in North ... Read full story
 9/4/2007
Walking Horse Group, UT to Collaborate on Gait Analysis Study; Funding Sought   *
The University of Tennessee (UT) and the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders' and Exhibitors' Association (TWHBEA) are working together to develop and secure funding for a balance and mobility study to analyze the natural gait of the Tennessee Walking Horse. "The Tennessee Walking Horse industry provides a very significant economic impact and much recognition ... Read full story
 9/3/2007
New Security Rules Initiated at Tennessee Walking Horse Celebration   *
There should be no doubt about the soundness of horses competing at this year's Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville, Tenn., event directors said, thanks to new security measures aimed at preventing everything from doping to soring and inappropriate shoeing. The new rules represent part of an effort to restore the Celebration's ... Read full story
 8/15/2007
Medication Consortium Gets $300,000 in Contributions  *
The Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) received $100,000 contributions from the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and the United States Trotting Association, and $50,000 contributions from the Delaware Thoroughbred Horsemen’s Association and the Hambletonian Society, the organization announced July 26. “We believe in the mission of the ... Read full story
 7/27/2007
Settlement Terms Reached in Dispute Over Alleged Injured Horse  *
Settlement terms have been reached in the lawsuit between Thoroughbred owners J. Paul Reddam and Kenneth Ramsey over an alleged injured horse, one day after a jury trial was scheduled to begin in a California superior court. Terms of the settlement are confidential, according to attorneys for the respective parties, and will become official upon the ... Read full story
 7/26/2007
Louisiana Racing Group Hires Medical Director, Plans to Add Vets   *
The Louisiana State Racing Commission has hired Tom David, DVM, as its first equine medical director. David will supervise new and previously existing state veterinary positions. In addition, he will oversee medical and testing activities at the state's four racetracks--Delta Downs Racetrack & Casino, Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino, ... Read full story
 7/20/2007
ASPCA Releases Official Statement and FAQs on NYC Carriage Horses   *
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) July 12 released its official position statement on the use of carriage horses in New York City. The carriage horse industry came under fire earlier this month after a horse was injured in a traffic accident with a taxicab. The following is the ASPCA's official position on ... Read full story
 7/17/2007
Environmental Contamination Necessitates Leeway in Post-Race Cocaine Testing  *
The prevalence of a common metabolite of cocaine in the environment has created a need for the allowance of a minimum concentration of the substance in post-competition race testing, according to Fernanda Camargo, DVM, and Tom Tobin, DVM, PhD, DABT of the Gluck Equine Research Center at the University of Kentucky. Roberta Dwyer, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVPM ... Read full story
 7/11/2007
AAEP 2006: Western Performance Horse Forum   *
The Western performance horse industry is growing at an astonishing rate, and along with that growth, there are unique health issues that need to be addressed. For that reason, the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) held a forum for discussion on Dec. 1, 2006, just before its convention in San Antonio, Texas. The Western Performance ... Read full story
 7/9/2007
Specialized Lameness Evaluation for the Jumping Horse  *
Horses performing different jobs require specialized examinations for lameness, according to Philippe Benoit, DVM, French jumping team veterinarian from 1991 to 2000. Benoit presented his method for examining jumping horses at the 2006 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention in San Antonio, Texas, held Dec. 2-6 Benoit said he likes ... Read full story
 7/5/2007
New FEI Eventing Safety Group Holds First Meeting  *
The Fédération Equestre Internationale's new safety subcommittee held its first meeting on June 18 in London. International rider and course designer David O'Connor chairs the group. Committee members include: Chris Bartle, international rider and trainer of the German national eventing team; Laurent Bousquet international rider and chairman of the ... Read full story
 6/26/2007
On Call Vets  *
When Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro experienced a life-threatening injury at the start of the 2006 Preakness Stakes, the story immediately switched from his quest for the Triple Crown to the efforts to save his life. Playing a crucial role in sharing timely and accurate information about the horse's injury to viewers around the world was Larry Bramlage, ... Read full story
 6/1/2007
Equine Injury Reporting System to Begin at 30 Tracks  *
A uniform on-track equine injury reporting system developed by Mary Scollay, DVM, association veterinarian at Calder Race Course and Gulfstream Park, will be implemented as a pilot project at 30 racetracks beginning June 1, it was announced today by representatives of the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit. The goal of the injury reporting ... Read full story
 5/30/2007
New Pennsylvania Track to Install Tapeta Surface  *
Presque Isle Downs, the new Erie, Pa. track owned by MTR Gaming Group, will install Michael Dickinson's synthetic Tapeta racing surface before its inaugural Thoroughbred meet begins Sept. 1., said Rose Mary Williams, director of racing at Mountaineer Race Track & Gaming Resort and corporate secretary for MTR Gaming Group. "We looked at polytrack ... Read full story
 5/13/2007
FEI Forming Permanent Eventing Safety Sub-Committee   *
The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) released a statement earlier this week, stating that the organization is seriously concerned by the fatal accidents which have occurred in Eventing over the last months. Although the FEI does not have the authority to manage and oversee national events, which are governed by the National Federations, the ... Read full story
 5/13/2007
Arlington's New Surface Healing Old Wounds  *
A year after an unprecedented string of catastrophic injuries left horsemen wondering what was wrong with the dirt track at Arlington Park, they were singing the praises of a new synthetic racing surface. More than 20 fatal injuries in an eight-week period last summer led to waves of negative publicity for Arlington. But on opening day, every television ... Read full story
 5/7/2007
Texas A&M Equine Research Provides Insight on Racing Injuries   *
Research at Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary and Biomedical Medicine is focused on reducing injuries such as that which befell Barbaro--and some that aren't quite so apparent. "There's a lot of concern about racing injuries," said Noah Cohen, VMD, PhD, MPH, Dipl. ACVIM, professor of equine medicine. "They're of concern from a humane ... Read full story
 5/2/2007
Polytrack Founder Admits Problems at American Tracks  *
Martin Collins, the creator of the Polytrack artificial surface, admitted to having faced problems in North America in an interview with the British monthly racing magazine, Thoroughbred Owner & Breeder. Interviewed in the May edition by Tim Richards, British-based Collins was asked whether there was a consistency problem with surfaces in America ... Read full story
 5/1/2007
FEI Investigating Rolex Cross Country Injury  *
An incident on the cross country course at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, sponsored by Farnam, on April 28, has attracted the attention of the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI). Le Samurai, a 12-year-old bay Holsteiner/Thoroughbred gelding ridden by 2006 World Equestrian Games Bronze Medalist Amy Tryon, sustained a serious injury near the ... Read full story
 5/1/2007
Derby Trainers Going Against Convention  *
Several entries will have had long layoffs, something that was once unheard of Four horses have run just two prep races. Four others are coming in off long layoffs. And some didn't even race as two-year-olds. Conventional wisdom is out the window at this year's Kentucky Derby, a wide-open affair that could produce a winner whose trainer might just ... Read full story
 4/28/2007
RCI Panel Discusses Ideas for Racehorse Safety  *
Emphatic calls for change in dealing with horse racing injuries and related prevention methods were made April 24 during a panel discussion at the annual Association of Racing Commissioners International Conference in Jackson Hole, Wyo. North American regulators in attendance at a Snake River Lodge & Spa conference center heard TOBA chairman ... Read full story
 4/26/2007
New Pennsylvania Track to Have Synthetic Surface  *
Presque Isle Downs, which plans to open Sept. 1 for its inaugural Thoroughbred meet, will have a synthetic surface, and a decision on the manufacturer could be finalized by the end of April. Presque Isle, located near Erie, Pa., opened for slot-machine gaming in mid-February. The target date to begin full-card simulcasts is mid- to late July, said ... Read full story
 4/18/2007
'Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse' Summit Update Released  *
Participants in the "Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit" in October 2006 continue to work on various initiatives but probably won't convene for a second summit until early 2008. The Jockey Club and Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, which put the summit together, released a quarterly update on the effort March 29. Organizers said having ... Read full story
 3/29/2007
Racetrack Ambulance Protocol Examined After Breeders' Cup Injuries  *
The sight of Fleet Indian standing in discomfort at the top of the Churchill Downs stretch while waiting for an equine ambulance during the running of the Nov. 4 Emirates Airline Breeders' Cup Distaff is something owner Paul Saylor will never forget. And it is something he hopes other owners will never have to endure. The delay in responding to the ... Read full story
 3/7/2007
National Finals Rodeo: Rodeo Does Vegas  *
Equestrian sports are the only events in the Olympics where male and female athletes compete against each other equally, whether humans or horses. Men and women, geldings, stallions, and mares are all equals. Rodeo is the only sport where humans and horses compete as teams and opponents. Which one you root for might vary, but like any equine sport, ... Read full story
 3/1/2007
Barbaro's Memory Spurs Retirement Program Donations   *
Soon after the death of Barbaro Jan. 29, horse racing enthusiasts and fans of the colt began contacting equine retirement organizations and making donations in his memory. "We've received at least a dozen donations from Minnesota, Wisconsin, New Hampshire, and Canada," said Sara Polley of the New York office of the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. ... Read full story
 2/7/2007
Thank You, Barbaro  *
A world apart from New Bolton Center in Pennsylvania sits a group of equine practitioners for a continuing education meeting in Baja, Mexico. Even here, several time zones and hundreds of miles away, Barbaro has been on everyone's minds. Then came the news that Barbaro was gone. There were tears shed by those whose job is the daily struggle with ... Read full story
 1/30/2007
Derby Winner Barbaro Euthanatized: "Difficult For Him to go on Without Pain"  *
Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro was euthanatized Monday (Jan. 29) after complications from his injury at the Preakness last May. "We just reached a point where it was going to be difficult for him to go on without pain," co-owner Roy Jackson said. "It was the right decision, it was the right thing to do. We said all along if there was a situation where ... Read full story
 1/29/2007
Remembering Barbaro   *
On the morning of Jan. 29, Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, head of surgery at The University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine's New Bolton Center, made the somber announcement most everyone had been prepared to hear more than eight months earlier. Barbaro had been euthanatized. The wave of grief that was anticipated back then now ... Read full story
 1/29/2007
California Racing Board Moves Ahead With Stricter Drug Regulations  *
Taking a get-tough stance, the California Horse Racing Board moved forward with its sweeping overhaul of the state’s equine drug policies including the first ban of so-called “designer” anabolic steroids. At its monthly meeting Jan. 23, the board voted 7-0 to open a 45-day public review of the changes, which include tougher and consistent penalties ... Read full story
 1/24/2007
Bay Meadows Might Defer Synthetic Track Decision  *
Bay Meadows Race Course, long rumored to be facing demolition in favor of redevelopment plans approved by the city of San Mateo, might seek an exemption from a California Horse Racing Board mandate to replace its existing dirt track with an artificial one by the end of 2007. The Bay Area track is the only major facility in the state to not announce ... Read full story
 12/30/2006
Northern California Trainer Rogers Suspended  *
California trainer Allen E. Rogers was suspended by Bay Meadows stewards after a horse in his care tested in excess of the specified level for the 2-(1-hydroxyethyl) promazine, a Class 3 violation. Swen finished third in the third race at Bay Meadows on August 7, 2003. The stewards disqualified Swen and ordered the purse redistributed for the race. ... Read full story
 12/30/2006
Stopping Steroids  *
Progress in racing's war on drugs started with a report in August 2000 from the National Thoroughbred Racing Association's Task Force on Racing Integrity and Drug Testing at The Jockey Club Round Table in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The following year, the American Association of Equine Practitioners organized a "medication summit" held in conjunction with ... Read full story
 12/24/2006
Dr. Rick Arthur to be Tuesday's Guest on "Talkin' Horses"  *
Join Rick Arthur, DVM, world-renowned expert in the field of veterinary medicine and advocate for equine health and welfare issues for more than 20 years. Arthur will be the next guest during a special Tuesday edition of Bloodhorse.com's "Talkin' Horses" from 12-1 p.m. ET Tuesday, Dec. 19; online at www.bloodhorse.com/talkinhorses. Arthur currently ... Read full story
 12/16/2006
Regulation of Steroids to be Recommended  *
Members of the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) are expected to recommend regulation of anabolic steroids in racehorses, but the timetable for the regulations remains up in the air. RMTC officials earlier in the year said they hoped to have a policy by the end of this year. There has been some division over the issue, in part because ... Read full story
 12/7/2006
Arlington Park to Install State-of-the-Art Racing Surface for 2007 Season   *
Arlington Park announced today that it will begin construction immediately to replace its conventional dirt track with a new state-of-the-art, synthetic racing surface to enhance athlete safety in advance of the 2007 race meet, which begins on Friday, May 4, 2007. "Arlington Park has always and will continue to provide the very best that horseracing ... Read full story
 12/7/2006
Symposium Panel Addresses Question of Keeping Star Horses in Training  *
The loss of star racehorses in training and the negative effect it has on the sport was a hot topic during a panel discussion Dec. 5 at the 33rd Symposium on Racing & Gaming in Tucson, Ariz. A panel that included Eclipse Award-winning trainer Todd Pletcher and track executives Martin Panza of Hollywood Park and Georgeanne Hale of the Maryland ... Read full story
 12/6/2006
Synthetic Surfaces: Spanning the Globe  *
It's difficult to get away from talk of synthetic surfaces, whether it concerns racing in North America, Asia, Europe, or Dubai. At this year's Breeders' Cup at Churchill Downs Nov. 4, a prominent European horseman said surfaces such as Polytrack would provide a "level playing field" for horses from around the globe, making the races truer world championships ... Read full story
 12/3/2006
University of Florida Racing Laboratory Gets New Director  *
Richard A. Sams, PhD, has been named director of the University of Florida (UF) College of Veterinary Medicine Racing Laboratory. Sams came to UF from The Ohio State University (OSU) College of Veterinary Medicine, where he was a professor and the director of its Analytical Toxicology Laboratory, a position he held since 1978. Sams received his bachelor ... Read full story
 12/1/2006
Final Turn: Helping the Horses  *
The proposed strategic plan that came out of last month's Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit is one of those documents or white papers that most likely will land in one of two places: the Thoroughbred industry's dust-gathering burial ground of so many other good ideas; or the hands of a leader with the energy, influence, and personal commitment ... Read full story
 11/19/2006
Racehorse Welfare and Safety Recommendations Released  *
Edited press release A cross-section of prominent participants from the Thoroughbred breeding and racing industry who participated in the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit in Lexington, on Oct. 16-17, have drafted recommended action plans in six areas to potentially improve conditions in various facets of the Thoroughbred industry. As ... Read full story
 11/10/2006
Racing Medication and Testing Group Announces Steroid and Drug Withdrawal Plan   *
During its meeting on Thursday, November 2, in Louisville, Ky., the board of directors of the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) announced future plans regarding anabolic steroids and out-of-competition drug testing, and received an update on ongoing projects related to the development of withdrawal times for therapeutic medications. The ... Read full story
 11/4/2006
Summit Issues Recommendations to Improve Racehorse Safety  *
The Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit ended Tuesday (Oct. 17) in Lexington, Ky., after more than 40 participants worked together to draft action plans in six areas to improve conditions in the Thoroughbred industry. The six areas were Education and Licensing; Racing Conditions/Racing Office; Research; Health and Medical Records; Racing Surfaces/Shoeing/Hoof ... Read full story
 10/18/2006
Welfare Summit Opens With Scientific Data, Frank Discussions  *
The public session that opened the Welfare and Safety of the Racehorse Summit Monday morning in Lexington, Ky., didn't provide just food for thought. The speakers and panelists served up a huge banquet of data, ideas, anecdotes, and opinions while kicking off the two-day event, which was coordinated and underwritten by The Jockey Club and the Grayson-Jockey ... Read full story
 10/17/2006
Grade I Winner Bandini Retired to Walmac  *
Bandini, a grade I winner and track-record setter, has been retired from racing for stallion duty at John T. Jones III and Robert Trussell's Walmac Farm near Lexington, Ky. The 4-year-old son of Fusaichi Pegasus is being syndicated and will stand for $17,500. Bandini scored his biggest win in a six-length romp in last year's Toyota Blue Grass Stakes ... Read full story
 10/17/2006
Bluegrass Cat to Stand for $50,000 at WinStar  *
Bluegrass Cat, a twice classic-placed grade I winner, will begin his stallion career in 2007 for a fee of $50,000 at Bill Casner and Kenny Troutt's WinStar Farm near Versailles, Ky. The 3-year-old son of Storm Cat is out of the A.P. Indy mare She's a Winner and is a half-brother to grade II winner Lord of the Game. A WinStar homebred, Bluegrass ... Read full story
 10/17/2006
Hyperhydration and Cross Country Day  *
How much hydration is enough, and how much is excessive? Researchers at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign recently found that hyperhydrating (giving extra fluids to) equine athletes before a simulated cross country day of a three-day event did not cause arterial hypoxemia (low blood oxygen levels) in the horses. These findings were contrary ... Read full story
 10/11/2006
Cape Town Jockey Suspended for Overriding Horse   *
South Africa's Independent Online reports that Christopher Puller has been suspended from riding for two months because he didn't pull up and get off his mount when it broke its leg on Sept. 23. "The horse, Dancecusdance, whose injured leg was 'dangling,' was put down by a vet who shot it in front of the grandstand at the Kenilworth racecourse," ... Read full story
 10/6/2006
Polytrack Debuts at Keeneland   *
As Keeneland officials noted with a laugh, it couldn't have been better scripted. But sometimes in horse racing, things have a funny way of coming together despite numerous factors. And on Friday, opening day at the Lexington racetrack, they did just that. The first race on Keeneland's state-of-the-art synthetic Polytrack was won by Lordly, who is ... Read full story
 10/6/2006
Walking Horse Trainers, Veterinarians React to Celebration Flap  *
According to Walking Horse trainers and veterinarians, the issues leading to the early closure of the National Celebration show were but another example of a lack of consistency in the interpretation of the Horse Protection Act (HPA). The HPA is designed to eliminate the practice of soring, which is the use of pain-inducing means to enhance the horse's ... Read full story
 10/4/2006
The Straight Dope  *
Is post-event drug testing becoming too sensitive, netting too many innocent violators? Are drug withdrawal guidelines for therapeutic medications too unreliable to be useful? Or are policies and tests being fine-tuned in a sensible manner in order to weed out the cheaters and increase odds of a fair and level playing field? As with so many other controversial ... Read full story
 10/1/2006
When the Chips Are Down  *
In the case of bone chips, sometimes bigger is better. In a study performed in 2006, researchers from the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center theorized that bone chip characteristics in a horse's knees were an indicator of the severity of the horse's injury. They were right. Liberty Getman, DVM, a surgical resident at the university, and ... Read full story
 10/1/2006
CHRB Files Drug Complaint Against Mullins  *
The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) has filed a complaint against trainer Jeff Mullins for multiple rule violations after a horse in his care, Robs Coin, tested positive for mepivacaine in the post-race urine sample. Robs Coin finished second in the seventh race at Hollywood Park on July 8. Bloodhorse.com first reported the positive finding July ... Read full story
 9/29/2006
California Official Wants Vets Held Accountable for Medication Violations   *
Rick Arthur, DVM, the new equine medical director of the California Horse Racing Board, told a meeting of state horse breeders Sept. 22 that he plans to hold veterinarians accountable when trainers they advise are found in violation of horse medication rules. He cited a recent example in which a California trainer, who assumes ultimate responsibility ... Read full story
 9/25/2006
Soring Controversy Shuts Down Show   *
In the wake of controversy over soring violations at the Tennessee Walking Horse National Celebration in Shelbyville, Tenn., in August, the Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders and Exhibitors Association (TWHBEA) is aggressively pitching its plan to promote consistency in USDA inspections at horse shows. Friction over interpretations of USDA scarring ... Read full story
 9/20/2006
A Step Ahead   *
You've heard the names: Cushion Track, Polytrack, Tapeta, StaLok. They are the trademark names of the major players in racing's latest frontier: the new North American market to replace dirt tracks with synthetic ones. Pardon the pun, but on the surface, there is little difference between their products. And, ahem, pun No. 2, they all claim to have ... Read full story
 9/16/2006
Kentucky, Ohio Employ Upgraded Blood-Doping Tests   *
Kentucky has performed random testing for blood-doping antibodies in racehorses of all breeds for more than a year, but now it's testing for the actual proteins, a process that could put more teeth in penalties. The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority is now using procedures similar to those in Ontario, Canada, where tests for erythropoietin (EPO) and ... Read full story
 9/8/2006
Therapeutic Drug Research, Necropsies Recommended by Racing Group  *
A subcommittee of the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council has recommended going forward with two studies--one that could lead to establishment of withdrawal times or threshold levels for therapeutic medications and one analyzing the medication levels in horses that sustain catastrophic injuries. Under one of the proposals approved by the subcommittee, ... Read full story
 9/7/2006
Rave Reviews for Woodbine's Polytrack Unveiling   *
Woodbine Racetrack unveiled its state-of-the-art Polytrack racing surface for training today (Aug. 27). Hundreds of horses galloped, jogged, or walked while 84 recorded timed workouts ranging from two furlongs to seven furlongs during the morning session. Executive Flight, trained by Darwin Banach, was the first horse on the track, while Stephen ... Read full story
 8/27/2006
Canadian Harness Horse Dies before Race  *
According to a story posted on CBC.ca, a horse died on Saturday (Aug. 19) at the Charlottetown Driving Park in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. The Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission is investigating the case. Horse owners are required to report the death of any horse to the Commission. The story continued, "If that horse was already ... Read full story
 8/23/2006
Surgeries and Steroids  *
A survey of buyers of Thoroughbred weanlings, yearlings, and 2-year-olds discovered that surgeries to correct conformation defects have a significant influence on whether or not someone will buy a horse at public auction. In fact, 28.4% of the 726 respondents to the survey sponsored by the Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association's (TOBA) Sales ... Read full story
 8/22/2006
Woodbine to Unveil Polytrack Surface Aug. 30  *
Woodbine Entertainment Group has targeted Aug. 30 for its first race to take place on the Toronto track's new state-of-the-art Polytrack surface. "We expect to complete the installation of the Polytrack on top of the macadam (final sub-layer) by early next week," said Chris Evans, Woodbine's vice president of Thoroughbred racing. "On the stretch turn, ... Read full story
 8/17/2006
Third Consultant Deems Arlington Park Surface Safe  *
Tests performed Aug. 8-9 on the main track at Arlington Park have determined the Illinois track is consistent and safe for racing. "I would not expect the track to be a significant factor in either fractures or soft tissue injuries," said Michael "Mick" Peterson in his preliminary report to the Illinois Racing Board. "At this point, the results are ... Read full story
 8/10/2006
HBPA to Emirates: Reconsider Position on Brass Hat Disqualification  *
The board of directors of the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association has sent Sheikh Mohammed, the ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mansour, chairman of the Emirates Racing Association, an official position statement on the disqualification of Brass Hat from his second-place finish in this year's $6-million Dubai World Cup (UAE-I), and ... Read full story
 8/1/2006
Meeting Held at Del Mar Over Breakdowns  *
Del Mar track management held an informal meeting the morning of July 22 to address the spike in injuries and fatal breakdowns during the first days of the California seaside oval's summer season. The meeting included several trainers and representatives from the Thoroughbred Owners of California, as well as the California Horse Racing Board's chairman ... Read full story
 7/24/2006
Independent Inspection Shows Arlington Surface Safe  *
A two-day examination of the dirt surface at Arlington Park revealed nothing that would lead officials to believe the track is unsafe. Because of the 17 breakdowns thus far at the meet, the Illinois Racing Board authorized the hiring of Charles E. Coon & Sons, an independent copmpany that designs, constructs, and maintains racing and training ... Read full story
 7/18/2006
California Using 'Milkshake' Blood Tests to Track Trends  *
California will soon release the results of a study that will reflect trends in connection with blood samples taken from about 6,000 racehorses for the purpose of "milkshake" --or TCO2 testing-- last year. California takes blood from all Thoroughbreds 30 minutes before post time. Samples are tested within 120 hours of collection; the maximum allowable ... Read full story
 7/17/2006
Barbaro's Condition "Stable" Friday  *
Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro spent a restful night and his condition is stable, according to Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, Chief of Surgery. At a news conference yesterday, Richardson announced that the three-year-old colt has laminitis. Laminitis is a painful condition in horses that can be the result of a number of causes, including excessive ... Read full story
 7/14/2006
Laminitis Strikes Barbaro; Survival Chances Called 'Poor'  *
Classic winner Barbaro has developed "acute, severe" laminitis in his uninjured left hind foot, and his prognosis for recovery is "poor," according to Dr. Dean Richardson, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa. COURTESY JAMES WALDSMITH A thermograph of a horse in the early stages of the ... Read full story
 7/13/2006
Study Inconclusive on Arlington Fatal Injuries  *
Add the Illinois Racing Board to the list of those who have little idea what has caused the recent spate of fatal injuries to horses at Arlington Park Racecourse. The IRB, at its July 11 meeting, heard a staff report on the 17 breakdowns that have occurred during racing in the current meeting--a number comparable to 12 fatal injuries during the ... Read full story
 7/13/2006
Barbaro in "Guarded" Condition Wednesday  *
The chief veterinarian attending to Kentucky Derby (gr. I) winner Barbaro said Wednesday that the colt is in "guarded" condition as he continues to recover from surgery to repair his right hind leg injured in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I). Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery at the New Bolton Center, said Barbaro is continuing to rest ... Read full story
 7/12/2006
Two Horses Die in Idaho Racing Accident  *
According to an Associated Press article on bloodhorse.com, two horses died in an accident at Les Bois Park racetrack in Boise, Idaho. One jockey remained hospitalized. The lead horse, Rawston, went down with a possible broken leg as the field was heading for the first turn. The AP reports the horse died when it hit the track. Another horse, Regal ... Read full story
 7/11/2006
Endurance Horse Falls from Trail in California  *
A 13-year-old Arabian fell more than 200 feet into a canyon and is feared dead after he was spooked by a rattlesnake on Sunday (July 9), reports the online edition of the www.auburnjournal.com/articles/2006/07/11/news/top_stories/02horse_11.txtAuburn Journal, a newspaper based in Auburn, Calif. According to the Journal, Nicole Wiere and Shawn Bowling ... Read full story
 7/11/2006
Barbaro Resting Comfortably in Sixth Cast   *
Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery in the George D. Widener Hospital at the University of Pennyslvania's New Bolton Center, reports today that Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro is resting comfortably after receiving his sixth cast since his accident at the Preakness on May 20. "Barbaro is eating well and resting in his stall," said Richardson, ... Read full story
 7/11/2006
Barbaro Receives Sixth Cast, Hoof Abscess Treated   *
(Updated July 11) After evaluating Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro on the morning of July 10, Dean Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery, replaced the cast on the colt's injured hind leg for a sixth time. "The long leg cast was replaced with a short leg cast this morning. This was done with Barbaro in a sling and only under mild sedation," said ... Read full story
 7/10/2006
Another Cast Change for Barbaro, New Bolton Provides More Information  *
On Wednesday, July 5, Dr. Dean Richardson, Chief of Surgery, replaced the cast on Barbaro that he had received on Monday, July 3. "Barbaro was not comfortable with the second cast, so we decided it would be best to replace it sooner rather than later," said Dr. Richardson. "His appetite is healthy, and we are continuing to monitor him closely for an ... Read full story
 7/7/2006
Arlington Catastrophic Injury Rate Draws Criticism, Concern  *
Although many causes have been suggested, there's still no definitive reason for the recent slew of catastrophic injuries in Thoroughbreds at Arlington Park racetrack in Arlington Heights, Ill., reported the Chicago Tribune on July 4. The paper noted that 17 horses had fatal injuries since the meet opened May 5. In comparison, last year 12 horses ... Read full story
 7/5/2006
Failure of Racehorses to Train and Race  *
It's commonly known that racehorses endure extreme physical and mental stresses preparing for a racing career, which can lead to injuries and illnesses. In a University of Cambridge study, researchers sought to quantify ailments endured by today's racehorses. The study followed 1,022 Thoroughbreds from conception to age four. Of those, 562 entered ... Read full story
 7/1/2006
Badminton Veterinarian Weighs in on Eventing's New Short Course  *
At the May 4-7 Badminton Horse Trials in England, veterinarians conducted an informal study to assess weight loss of elite eventing horses during the sport's new shortened endurance phase. Preliminary results suggest weights of well-conditioned horses change the least during the cross country phase. The study could help establish a baseline for examining ... Read full story
 7/1/2006
Plan Finalized to Set Policies on Withdrawal Times for Therapeutic Medications  *
During its meeting on Tuesday, June 27, the Board of Directors of the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) finalized a two-part plan to establish model policies for withdrawal times for therapeutic medications in racehorses. In part one, the RMTC will compile existing withdrawal guidelines for 50 therapeutic medications identified by ... Read full story
 6/29/2006
Emirates Appeals Panel Upholds Brass Hat Disqualification  *
A three-member appeals panel of the Emirates Racing Authority has upheld the disqualification of Thoroughbred Brass Hat from his second-place finish in this year's Dubai World Cup (UAE-I) and the $5,400 fine imposed on trainer Buff Bradley. As a result of the Tuesday decision, which followed a two-hour teleconference hearing Monday (June 26), owner ... Read full story
 6/27/2006
Asmussen Faces Six Month Suspension and Fine  *
Steve Asmussen, North America's leading trainer in 2004 and 2005, is facing a six month suspension for a medication infraction involving the Class 2 drug mepivicaine, a local anesthetic. According to the Louisiana Racing Commission, Asmussen's appeal on a May 18 ruling was rejected when stewards reviewed the issue June 23. The trainer was fined $2,500 ... Read full story
 6/26/2006
Lawyer Ron Ready to Return to Training  *
Arkansas Derby winner Lawyer Ron has been given the okay to return to training at the barn of veteran Robert Holthus on Friday after surgery following a disappointing run in the Kentucky Derby. Holthus said noted equine surgeon Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, who had removed a small chip from Lawyer Ron's right hind leg in a procedure at Lexington, ... Read full story
 6/16/2006
Progress Made on Out-of-Competition Testing Front  *
Out-of-competition testing of racehorses can be problematic, but some jurisdictions are making headway to combat use of performance-enhancing substances that aren't administered on race day. The Ontario Racing Commission, under a new directive, will penalize owners and trainers who don't allow random blood samples to be drawn from their horses at ... Read full story
 6/8/2006
More Than We Know (Thoughts on Barbaro)  *
Little League moms. Cub Scout dads. Coaches. Teachers. Neighbors. Middle-schoolers. Gary at the post office. Everyone wanted to know about Barbaro. And that was before the Preakness Stakes (gr. I). Afterward, the questions were different but the people still asked me about America's most famous Thoroughbred. With a Triple Crown, Barbaro could have ... Read full story
 6/8/2006
Barbaro: Fellow Athletes Support Recovery Pool  *
Veterinarians at the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals continue to be pleased with Barbaro's condition, which improves daily. The Kentucky Derby winner is recovering from a shattered hind leg sustained at the Preakness on May 20. "He spent a restful weekend and is doing well," said Chief of Surgery Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS. Barbaro ... Read full story
 6/6/2006
Fair Hill to Install Tapeta Surface on Training Track  *
The Fair Hill Training Center in Elkton, Md., plans to install the Tapeta all-weather surface on its training track during the summer of 2006, it announced May 31. The synthetic surface, designed by trainer Michael Dickinson and first used at his seven-furlong track in Maryland, Tapeta Farm, in 1998, replaces the wood chips currently in use on the ... Read full story
 6/5/2006
Woodbine Drops Nine Live Racing Days; Polytrack Installation Cited  *
Woodbine Entertainment Group announced last Thursday (June 2) it has received approval from the Ontario Racing Commission to drop nine dates from Woodbine's 2006 Thoroughbred racing schedule. The altered calendar is to accommodate the installation of a Polytrack surface where the one-mile dirt track currently sits. While the original racing calendar ... Read full story
 6/5/2006
New Bolton Answers Common Barbaro Questions   *
Barbaro, winner of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), continues to improve daily as he recovers from a shattered hind leg sustained at the Preakness on May 20. "I'm very pleased with the progress Barbaro is making," said chief of surgery Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS. "Everything is fine." Barbaro remains in intensive care ... Read full story
 6/2/2006
Good Prognosis for Olecranon Fracture Repair  *
Olecranon (point of the elbow) fractures are common orthopedic problems in foals often attributable to being kicked while playing, rambunctious behavior, or falling over backward (which they are more apt to do than older horses). In a joint study from the University of Missouri (UM) Comparative Orthopaedic Laboratory and Hagyard Equine Medical Institute ... Read full story
 6/1/2006
Barbaro: Importance of Hind Leg in Breeding Explained  *
Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., reported Thursday that Barbaro was in excellent condition. "He looks great and everything is fine," Richardson said of the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner. Barbaro remains in intensive care. ... Read full story
 6/1/2006
How We Failed Barbaro  *
(Reprinted from Bloodhorse.com) Oxford Prince died in front of me, a breath before the finish line at Timonium, some 25 years ago. His leg had broken, sending him into a ghastly tumble, his jockey kissing off the ground like a stone on a still pond. When the vet came, the colt lifted his leg obediently, and the cannon bone swung from its middle as ... Read full story
 5/31/2006
Barbaro: Richardson Ups Recovery Chances to 51%  *
The tears for Barbaro have all been shed, and now people around the world anxiously await each daily report on the colt's condition. It's been more than a week since Barbaro's horrific injury in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I), which set off an outpouring of emotion on a national scale never before seen in Thoroughbred racing. Although the horse has ... Read full story
 5/30/2006
Barbaro on Thursday: Progressing Nicely  *
The news continued to be promising for Barbaro Thursday. Dr. Dean Richardson reported that the colt was "progressing nicely, has totally normal vital signs, and is in excellent condition" at the the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. Richardson, who is the chief of surgery at the ... Read full story
 5/26/2006
Barbaro on Friday: His Condition is Excellent  *
Five days after undergoing surgery, Barbaro was in excellent condition, according to a report from the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center. "He looks good, everything is fine, and his appetite is particularly good today," said chief of surgery Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, in a ... Read full story
 5/26/2006
HRTV To Air Daily Barbaro Updates  *
HorseRacing TV will feature a daily update on the condition of Barbaro, the Kentucky Derby Presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I) winner who was injured in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I), beginning at 3:30 p.m. ET/12:30 p.m. PT. "Like the rest of the racing world, the HRTV group is very concerned about Barbaro," said Amy J. Zimmerman, HRTV's executive producer. ... Read full story
 5/25/2006
Tuesday Update: Barbaro   *
"Barbaro is doing very well. He's actually better today than he was even yesterday, and he was pretty good yesterday," Dean Richardson DVM, Dipl. ACVS, reported in a Tuesday morning news briefing at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, where the classic winner was resting two days after surgery to repair multiple fractures in his right ... Read full story
 5/23/2006
Haskin's Preakness Recap: Triumph and Tragedy  *
The day before Preakness Stakes (gr. I) 131, Barbaro arrived at Pimlico by van to a hero's welcome, as a gauntlet of photographers, cameramen, and writers greeted racing's newest superstar. Barbaro stared out the van window at the large throng that had gathered. It was a stark contrast from the halcyon days spent over the past two weeks at the Fair ... Read full story
 5/23/2006
Industry Sends Best Wishes to Barbaro, Connections  *
Industry associations have joined the thousands of racing fans rallying around Barbaro, who was pulled up in the May 20 Preakness Stakes (gr. I) and underwent surgery on his right hind leg the following day.The story has gotten regular play from major news outlets around the country. Visitors to the New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., have been ... Read full story
 5/23/2006
Barbaro in Recovery: Active, Inquisitive, Agile  *
"He's pretty agile," said Dean W. Richardson, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, chief of surgery at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center, referring to his well known patient, Barbaro, whose fractured leg he repaired on Sunday afternoon. "He's done a couple of things that manifest his level of comfort. He actually was scratching his left ear with his left ... Read full story
 5/23/2006
Slide Show: Barbaro Pulls Through  *
Visit our sister publication, bloodhorse.com, to view a slide show of Derby winner Barbaro's recovery from fracture surgery. Also, see bloodhorse.com's Monday afternoon (May 22) update, "Barbaro Bright and Frisky One Day After Surgery." Click here for pre- and post-op radiographs of Barbaro's injured leg on TheHorse.com. Check back at TheHorse.com ... Read full story
 5/22/2006
After Successful Surgery, Barbaro's Chances Remain a "Coin Toss"  *
Veterinary surgeon Dean Richardson and trainer Michael Matz flashed smiles during a press briefing that followed afternoon-long surgery Sunday to repair the right hind ankle of classic winner Barbaro that was severely injured one day earlier in the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico. Barbaro was standing and eating in a recovery stall following the ... Read full story
 5/21/2006
Surgery Scheduled Sunday Afternoon for Barbaro  *
Kentucky Derby winner Barbaro, who suffered multiple fractures soon after the start of the Preakness Stakes (gr. I), has been taken to the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals at the New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa. He is scheduled to undergo surgery Sunday afternoon. JEFFREY SNYDER Jockey Edgar Prado and unidentified man ... Read full story
 5/21/2006
State Vet Says Barbaro Not Injured in Starting Gate  *
David G. Zipf, chief veterinarian for the Maryland State Racing Commission, is convinced classic winner Barbaro did not suffer his career-ending injury in the starting gate when he broke through the stalls prior to the start of Saturday's Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico. Zipf was stationed behind the gate when Barbaro, the 1-2 favorite, broke ... Read full story
 5/21/2006
Veterinarians Discuss Barbaro's Injury Prior to Surgery  *
Drs. Dean Richardson and Barbara Dallap met briefly with the press shortly after noon Sunday at the University of Pennsylvania's New Bolton Center in Kennett Square, Pa., to discuss the surgery about to be performed on Roy and Gretchen Jackson's Barbaro, the classic-winning Dynaformer colt who suffered a life-threatening right hind leg injury and was ... Read full story
 5/21/2006
Preakness: Gasps and Disbelief Give Way to Hope, Prayers  *
The gasps that rose from the record crowd gathered for Saturday's Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico Race Course told the story. There eventually was a winner, but even his connections were thinking about the injury to heavily favored Barbaro, who was pulled up in front of the stands soon after the start."You feel very upset when you see something ... Read full story
 5/20/2006
Lawyer Ron Back at Churchill After Surgery  *
Anne Eberhardt Lawyer Ron is recovering at home from recent surgery to remove bone chips. Grade II winner Lawyer Ron, who ran unplaced in the Kentucky Derby presented by Yum! Brands (gr. I), has been returned to trainer Bob Holthus at Churchill Downs following surgery to remove bone chips. Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, removed small chips from ... Read full story
 5/16/2006
Lawyer Ron to Miss Preakness; To Have Chip Removed  *
Lawyer Ron is scheduled to have a small chip removed from his right, hind ankle May 12 at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky. The surgery, to be performed by Larry Bramlage, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, will force the son of Langfuhr to miss the Preakness Stakes (gr. I) at Pimlico May 20. It is anticipated the Arkansas Derby (gr. II) winner can ... Read full story
 5/11/2006
Group Studies Synthetic Racing Surfaces for New York  *
A fledgling group of owners and breeders in New York has launched a new effort to study a variety of issues affecting the safety of Thoroughbred horses, including whether some of the state's racetracks should install alternative racing surfaces. The new committee of Empire Racing Associates, which is trying to position itself to be involved as possible ... Read full story
 5/11/2006
Sharp Humor Sidelined With Chip Knee Fracture  *
Purdedel and WinStar Stable's Sharp Humor has been diagnosed with a small fracture of the left knee which will knock him off the Triple Crown trail. The 3-year-old New York-bred son of Distorted Humor is scheduled to undergo surgery Thursday (May 11) to repair the fracture. A statement from the owners said the injury was detected during an examination ... Read full story
 5/10/2006
From Flamenco to Dressage, Andalusians Steal the Show  *
The rapidly growing number of Andalusian aficionados found something for every taste and style at the Ohio Equine Affaire. A lady danced with a white stallion. Dressage medalists demonstrated 4th level movements. Senioritas in beautiful Flamenco dress cantered their horses while riders in western cowboy and traditional Spanish ranch attire pranced ... Read full story
 5/5/2006
Interval Training: A Better Option?   *
Musculoskeletal injury is the main cause of wastage in Thoroughbred racehorses worldwide, with nearly 30% of all fractures being pelvic and tibial stress fractures. California studies in the late 1990s suggested fast work increased the risk of injuries, while Kentucky studies implied high-speed exercise was protective. K.L.P. Verheyen, DVM, MSc, PhD, ... Read full story
 5/1/2006
Uniform Medication  *
The AAEP organized the Racing Medication Summit in December 2001 during the University of Arizona Racing Symposium in Tucson. By the end of the day, there was recognition by the participants that an opportunity existed to address the ongoing medication and drug testing controversies in horse racing. Soon thereafter, the Racing Medication and Testing ... Read full story
 5/1/2006
Buyers to be Surveyed on Mandatory Disclosure of Surgeries  *
Thousands of Thoroughbred buyers soon will be receiving surveys asking what they think about the mandatory disclosure of surgeries that cause permanent changes in the conformation of sale horses. Distribution of the questionnaires was scheduled to begin the week of April 17. The Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders Association (TOBA) provided funding ... Read full story
 4/25/2006
Keeneland Going With Polytrack; Other Track Renovations Planned  *
The Keeneland Association board of directors gave its approval to install a synthetic surface known as Polytrack on the main racetrack during an April 19 meeting. Construction is scheduled to begin in May and the Central Kentucky track will be ready for racing when the fall meet opens Oct. 6. ANNE EBERHARDT The Polytrack surface on Keeneland's ... Read full story
 4/20/2006
USDA Announces Method for Enforcing the Horse Protection Act  *
The USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced on Friday (April 14) the use of gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) to enforce the Horse Protection Act (HPA). The method will detect horses that have been subjected to soring. Since 2004, APHIS' animal care program has held public meetings and informed horse industry ... Read full story
 4/17/2006
California Requires Synthetic Racing Surface   *
The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) decided on Feb. 16 that California racing associations operating meets of at least four continuous weeks will be required to install a synthetic racing surface by the end of 2007 or face a loss of race dates. This decision was in response to concerns about the safety of California track surfaces. CHRB Chairman ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Kentucky Drug Penalties Changed   *
A 90-day emergency regulation governing violation of Thoroughbred racing medication rules expired Feb. 15, so the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) reverted to the old penalty rules. The regulation expired after a legislative subcommittee declined to give final approval two days before the expiration date. According to published reports, some ... Read full story
 4/1/2006
Interval Training: A Better Option for Racehorses?  *
Musculoskeletal injury is the main cause of wastage in Thoroughbred racehorses worldwide, with nearly 30% of all fractures being pelvic and tibial stress fractures. Studies in California in the late 1990s suggested fast work increased the risk of injuries, while other studies in Kentucky implied high-speed exercise was protective. K.L.P. Verheyen, ... Read full story
 3/28/2006
Funding Bill Possible for Calif. Surfaces Plan  *
California Senator Dean Florez is developing legislation to address the issue of funding for the state's major Thoroughbred racetracks to install Polytrack-like surfaces in order to reduce injuries to horses and riders. The California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) has given preliminary approval to a rule requiring the major tracks to install the new racing ... Read full story
 3/11/2006
Three Years of Racing Deaths in Australia   *
An Australian survey found that euthanasia for catastrophic forelimb injury was the most common Thoroughbred racehorse fatality. Also, sudden death (not as the result of euthanasia) contributed more to racing fatalities than previously thought. Analyzing point-of-death blood samples could help scientists better pinpoint the triggers of sudden deaths. ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
Feel the Beat   *
It's a thrilling moment for spectator and exhibitor alike on a steamy August night in Freedom Hall, Louisville, Ky. The place is filled wall-to-wall with spectators. Some are in elevated private suites surrounding the arena floor. Many are dressed in resplendent finery augmented by expensive jewels. The reserved sections are filled with equine aficionados. ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
Using GPS to Train Racehorses   *
An Australian researcher says he's found a reliable way for trainers to monitor Thoroughbred racehorse fitness using global positioning system (GPS) technology measurements of velocity and heart rate during fast gallop training routines. He presented the study at the 2005 American Association of Equine Practitioners Convention, held Dec. 3-7, 2005, ... Read full story
 3/1/2006
New Drug Penalty Regulation in Kentucky Expires  *
A 90-day emergency regulation governing infractions of Kentucky equine medication rules expired Feb. 15 and the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) reverted back to the old rules that were previously in place. The new regulation expired after a legislative subcommittee declined to give final approval two days before it expired. According to published ... Read full story
 2/21/2006
California Horse Racing Board to Require Polytrack Installation at Tracks  *
California racing associations that operate meets of at least four continuous weeks would be required to install a synthetic racing surface by the end of 2007 or face a loss of dates, the California Horse Racing Board (CHRB) decided Feb. 16. After hearing Craig Fravel, executive vice president at Del Mar, give a report on progress on the proposed ... Read full story
 2/19/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Racing Forum   *
What is being done to ensure a level playing field for horses and horsemen? That was a key question discussed at the American Association of Equine Practitioners' Racing Forum on Dec. 3 during the group's annual convention in Seattle, Wash. An update from the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC) indicated that 30 racing jurisdictions are ... Read full story
 2/17/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Forelimb Conformation and Race Performance  *
Straight conformation in the forelimb doesn't necessarily beget a more successful racehorse. This is what a research group from the University of Wisconsin's School of Veterinary Medicine discovered in a recent study. However, the group also determined that certain forelimb deviations have a negative effect only on horses' 2-year-old race records. "Conformational ... Read full story
 2/16/2006
AAEP Convention 2005: Three Years of Racing Deaths in Victoria, Australia  *
A comprehensive post-mortem survey in Victoria, Australia, found that euthanasia for catastrophic forelimb injury was the most common cause of Thoroughbred racehorse fatality. Additionally, Lisa Boden, AB, BVSc, MACVS, of The University of Melbourne in Australia, observed that sudden death (when the horse dies suddenly--not as the result of euthanasia) ... Read full story
 2/16/2006
Forelimb Lameness Common in Barrel Horses   *
A Texas A&M University (TAMU) study has found that horses used for barrel racing were more often lame in their forelimbs than horses used for other disciplines. The study examined 118 Quarter Horses and Appendix Quarter Horses brought to TAMU for lameness and performance problems. The study results were published in the Nov. 15, 2005, edition of ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
Microchips Not Mandated in Racehorses   *
Putting microchips in racehorses for identification purposes will remain secondary to standard ID procedures such as tattooing and DNA testing, according to a panel of industry experts at The Syamposium on Racing and Gaming held Dec. 6-8, 2005, near Tucson, Ariz. The Jockey Club won't mandate the use of microchips as a requirement to register foals ... Read full story
 2/1/2006
New York Enacts Pre-Race "Milkshaking" Tests  *
The New York State Racing and Wagering Board voted Jan. 19 to adopt an emergency rule allowing for the collection of pre-race blood samples from horses entered into races at the state's Thoroughbred and harness tracks to test for excess alkalizing agents (milkshaking) that could affect the outcome of the race. The blood samples are sent to the Equine ... Read full story
 1/23/2006
KHRA Approves Drug Regulations   *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) on Nov. 14, 2005, gave unanimous approval to revised medication rules that were controversial when implemented under an emergency order signed in August by Gov. Ernie Fletcher. The regulations are scheduled to take effect on or about Feb. 3. The rules address usage of common horse care products, certain ... Read full story
 1/1/2006
Legislative Subcommittee OKs Kentucky Drug Rules  *
Kentucky's new medication rules were approved Dec. 13 by the state General Assembly Administrative Regulation Review Subcommittee. The rules, centered on race-day medication, were approved by the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority Nov. 14 and went through the legislative review process. They previously were implemented under an emergency order signed ... Read full story
 12/14/2005
AAEP Calls for Ban on Anabolic Steroids in Sale Horse Medication Guidelines  *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners' Task Force on Medication Issues at Public Auction has released its recommendations for medication usage in horses presented for sale at public auctions. They include the banning of anabolic steroids in horses on the sale grounds and also call for sale companies to serve as the "principle enforcers" ... Read full story
 12/14/2005
Dual Classic Winner Afleet Alex Retired  *
Cash is King Stable's Afleet Alex, winner of this year's Preakness and Belmont Stakes (both gr. I), has been retired. Trainer Tim Ritchey announced Thursday the son of Northern Afleet has been retired due to a recently detected injury believed to have caused the colt's hairline condylar fracture of the left front cannon bone suffered in July. There ... Read full story
 12/7/2005
"Zero Tolerance" Policy Leads to Positive Tests in Indiana  *
A "zero tolerance" policy in Indiana led to seven horses testing positive for cocaine during the waning weeks of Hoosier Park's recently concluded Thoroughbred meet. According to Indiana Horse Racing Commission executive director Joe Gorajec, the traces in each positive were very low, and would have fallen under the acceptable thresholds of other racing ... Read full story
 12/1/2005
Kentucky Horse Racing Authority Gives Final Approval to Drug Regulations  *
The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) on Nov. 14 gave unanimous approval to revised medication rules that had been the subject of controversy when implemented under an emergency order signed in August by Gov. Ernie Fletcher. The final draft, which is subject to regulatory review and possible change by the state's Legislative Research Commission, ... Read full story
 11/15/2005
Tornado Kills Three Horses in Northwestern Kentucky  *
According to an Associated Press article on bloodhorse.com, a tornado that tore through Ellis Park racetrack in Henderson, Ky., early yesterday morning (Nov. 6) killed three horses and injured several other horses and track workers. Large sections of the grandstand were also destroyed. "The twister tore across southwestern Indiana and western Kentucky ... Read full story
 11/7/2005
Breeders Speak Out in Favor of Kentucky Medication Changes  *
More than 100 Kentucky-based breeders have come out in support of new equine medication and related penalties proposed by the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority. Arthur Hancock III of Stone Farm near Paris, Ky., sent breeders copies of a letter he wrote to the Kentucky Horse Racing Authority and its executive, director Jim Gallagher. As of Oct. 28, Hancock ... Read full story
 11/2/2005
AAEP On Call Veterinarians to Assist Breeders' Cup Telecast  *
Equine veterinarians representing the American Association of Equine Practitioners' (AAEP) On Call program will assist NBC Sports with horse health information during the Oct. 29 Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships at Belmont Park. World-renowned equine surgeons Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, and Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, DSc, FRCVS, ... Read full story
 10/20/2005
Afleet Alex to Miss Breeders' Cup  *
Trainer Tim Ritchey and veterinarian Patricia Hogan, DVM, have said Afleet Alex's injured leg is still in the healing process and he will not be ready for the Oct. 29 Breeders' Cup Classic-Powered by Dodge (gr. I). In a joint statement posted on Afleet Alex's web site on Oct. 10, Ritchey and Hogan stated: "Recently, Alex was cleared for speed work ... Read full story
 10/17/2005
Kentucky Works on Withdrawal Times for Medications  *
In the wake of controversy concerning its new medication regulations, the Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council has formed two standing subcommittees to oversee the next phase of integrating the race-day medication regulations. The committees, which will report back to the council, are charged with developing medication withdrawal guidelines and better ... Read full story
 10/17/2005
New Turfway Surface Well Received, But Test Comes This Winter  *
The Polytrack experiment at Turfway Park was deemed a success--especially for safety reasons--at the conclusion of the 22-day summer/fall meet, though the Northern Kentucky racetrack expects to get a more accurate picture of the synthetic surface during its four-month fall/winter meet that begins in late November and runs through early April. When ... Read full story
 10/17/2005
Bernstein Horses in Detention for TC02 Positive  *
Horses trained by David Bernstein must spend at least 24 hours in a pre-race detention barn because one of his horses tested positive for a high level of total carbon dioxide at Del Mar. The detention period began Sept. 30 at the Oak Tree at Santa Anita meet and runs through Oct. 29. Officials with the consortium of racetracks and racing organizations ... Read full story
 10/17/2005
Oral Potassium for Endurance?   *
Endurance riding can lead to significant losses of water and electrolytes, which can cause clinical illnesses related to increased neuromuscular excitability, including cardiac arrhythmia, muscle cramping and twitching, and gut motility changes. When plasma potassium (K+) increases--as it does with increasing exercise intensity--there is a concomitant ... Read full story
 10/1/2005
South African Bleeders Study Begins  *
An international collaboration of researchers launched a study in July to examine the prevalence and severity of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in more than 800 South African Thoroughbreds. The group from the University of Pretoria, The Ohio State University (OSU), and the University of Kentucky (UK) also will examine the effect of altitude ... Read full story
 9/1/2005
Change in Kentucky Drug Rules Could Trigger Lawsuit  *
The Kentucky Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) could file a lawsuit to prevent implementation of a new race-day medication policy in the state. Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher signed the more restrictive rules Aug. 19 under an emergency order. The Kentucky Horse Racing Authority (KHRA) gave final approval to the new policy Aug. ... Read full story
 8/23/2005
California Trainers on Notice About Use of Anabolic Steroids  *
While steroid use by human athletes has caused a firestorm of controversy, trainers in California are being warned to avoid using anabolic steroids on their horses because of increased testing and uncertainty about withdrawal times. But the director of the state's drug-testing laboratory said the concern is misplaced. Trainer Laura de Seroux was ... Read full story
 8/16/2005
Surface Switch  *
It is often said the key to real estate is "location, location, location." Well, listening to the speakers at the Aug. 8-9 conference of racetrack superintendents, it became clear the key to a good surface is "consistency, consistency, consistency." And the key to consistency for many tracks and training centers looking into the future may be alternative ... Read full story
 8/16/2005
TRF Saratoga Fundraiser Sets Record  *
With the horse racing industry clearly responding to the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation's (TRF) increased need to care for a rapidly increasing population of retirees, the charity raised $629,000 at its annual fund-raiser Monday night (Aug. 8) at the Saratoga Golf and Polo Club in Saratoga Springs, N.Y. The total topped the old record by more than ... Read full story
 8/10/2005
Aggressive Treatment Key to Afleet Alex's Recovery  *
As Afleet Alex walked the shedrow for the second of three times Tuesday morning (Aug. 9), his ears were up and he was looking for peppermints from trainer Tim Ritchey. It was obvious the colt was happy being out of his stall and walking again. It has been only 14 days since Afleet Alex underwent surgery to repair a small hairline fracture, but the ... Read full story
 8/10/2005
Sales Integrity Program Committee Addresses Concerns Over Surgery Disclosure  *
The monitoring committee for the Sales Integrity Program is taking action to address some consignors' concerns about how the Thoroughbred auction industry will handle the disclosure of invasive joint surgeries and other procedures designed to permanently change a horse's conformation. Disclosure is a provision of the industry's new code of ethics, ... Read full story
 8/2/2005
NYRA Makes Security Barn Adjustments  *
The New York Racing Association is "100% committed" to race day security barns, but has taken immediate action to address concerns expressed by horsemen at Saratoga Race Course, NYRA president Charles E. Hayward said July 29. Hayward's remarks, contained in a NYRA press release, came after discussions July 26 with horsemen on improving the quality ... Read full story
 8/2/2005
Mineral and Electrolyte Balance
I understand that correct ratios of calcium and phosphorus are important to the function of muscle tissue during exertion such as in endurance racing. How does one achieve a good balance using imbalanced feeds? Is there a good strategy for mineral or electrolyte replacement during rest stops? Michael Calcium and phosphorus balance is indeed ... Read full story
 8/1/2005
Giacomo Out for the Year   *
Giacomo, upset winner of the Kentucky Derby, will be sidelined for the remainder of the year with a bone chip in his left front fetlock that he suffered in the Belmont Stakes. Trainer John Shirreffs said the prognosis is excellent, and he is optimistic the colt will return to the races as a 4-year-old. On June 16, Frank Stronach announced he had ... Read full story
 8/1/2005
McCarron Chooses TRF Retirees for Racing Academy  *
Hall of Fame jockey Chris McCarron has entered into an agreement with the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation (TRF) to supply horses for the North American Racing Academy, a riding school McCarron will open later this year. McCarron's academy will be the first of its kind in this country and will mirror the many successful riding schools that have churned ... Read full story
 8/1/2005
Afleet Alex Sidelined by Condylar Fracture  *
Cash Is King's Afleet Alex, dramatic winner of the Preakness and runaway winner of the Belmont Stakes (both gr. I), underwent surgery yesterday at the New Jersey Equine Clinic after suffering a condylar fracture. The 3-year-old son of Northern Afleet is now out of consideration for the upcoming Haskell Invitational Handicap (gr. I) and Travers Stakes ... Read full story
 7/29/2005
Evidence Heard in Cocaine Case in Australia  *
Racing New South Wales stewards opened an inquiry on Monday (July 25) into the analyst's finding of benzoylecgonine, a metabolite of cocaine, in the urine sample taken from the 3-year-old filly Love You Honey, who finished unplaced in race seven April 25, 2005, at Gosford Racecourse in Australia. The horse is trained by Australia's leading trainer, ... Read full story
 7/27/2005
Preventing Bucked Shins  *
Shin soreness, or bucked shins, in Thoroughbred racehorses is a partly preventable condition according to a recent Australian study. Horses with shin soreness display signs of pain on the front of the shins between the knee and fetlock, said David Evans, BVSc, PhD, associate professor of veterinary science at the University of Sydney and one of the ... Read full story
 7/27/2005
Fans Honor Slain Saddlebred  *
A crowd of about 300 people overflowed the Kentucky Horse Park's (KHP) Hall of Champions pavilion Sunday, July 10, in Lexington to honor Saddlebred champion Wild-Eyed &Wicked following his burial at the park. Wicked was one of three Saddlebreds that perished in July 2003 after attacks by injections in their left front pasterns left them too debilitated ... Read full story
 7/11/2005
Heart Size and Racing Performance in Trotters  *
When it comes to the hearts of Standardbred racehorses, size does matter. Danish researchers recently published the results of an echocardiographic study in which they found that heart size correlated with athletic performance. However, "excellent cardiac function is only one of the important requirements to become a successful athletic horse," concluded ... Read full story
 7/5/2005
Gastric Ulcer Research in Racehorses   *
Two articles on the use of omeprazole paste (Merial's GastroGard) in racehorses were published in the May 15 edition of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). The first study looked at using omeprazole paste to prevent gastric ulcers in horses entering race training. The second study looked at the efficacy of the paste ... Read full story
 7/1/2005
Roping Horse Lameness   *
A study from Texas A&M University (TAMU) on roping horses determined, "Horses used for heading were most commonly affected by lameness in the right forelimb. Horses used for heeling had more bilateral hind limb lameness than horses used for heading." This study involving 118 Quarter Horses brought to Texas A&M for lameness and/or behavior problems ... Read full story
 6/30/2005
Giacomo Out for the Year; Will Stand at Adena Springs Upon Retirement  *
Jerry and Ann Moss' homebred Giacomo, upset winner of the Kentucky Derby (gr. I) will be sidelined for the remainder of the year with a bone chip in his left front ankle, suffered in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I). Trainer John Shirreffs said the prognosis is excellent, and he is optimistic the colt will return to the races as a 4-year-old. On Thursday, ... Read full story
 6/17/2005
Ghostzapper Retired With Sesamoid Injury  *
Frank Stronach's Ghostzapper, the 2004 Horse of the Year and champion older male, has been retired after the detection of a small hairline fracture of the left front sesamoid. He will stand at Stronach's Adena Springs Farm near Versailles, Ky. Ghostzapper, a 5-year-old homebred son of Awesome Again–-Baby Zip, by Relaunch, scored a brilliant 6 1/4-length ... Read full story
 6/14/2005
Eventing's Short and Long Formats Compared  *
Three-Day event horses performing the short format endurance portion of an event and horses completing the conventional long format experience a similar amount of stress, according to a recent study. The public has speculated on whether or not horses were adversely or positively affected by the short format since it was introduced to events in 2004 ... Read full story
 6/1/2005
Ulcer Research in Racehorses: Omeprazole Helps  *
Two articles on the use of omeprazole paste (GastroGard from Merial) in racehorses were published in the May 15 edition of the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA). The first study looked at using omeprazole paste to prevent gastric ulcers in horses entering race training. The second study looked at the efficacy of omeprazole ... Read full story
 5/19/2005
Early Jump Training Unnecessary  *
Training young horses for jumping at six months of age is ineffective and unnecessary, according to a Dutch study published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research. The effect of specific jump training on young horses' jumping technique was only short-term, and the research supports the common approach of waiting until age three before giving ... Read full story
 5/3/2005
Conformation of Racehorses   *
"Forelimb conformation receives lots of attention because of perceived predisposition to injury (with various conformational problems)," began Liz Santschi, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, clinical associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, at the Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 20-25 in Las Vegas, Nev. Thoroughbred Foals She discussed ... Read full story
 5/1/2005
Officials to Discuss Polytrack Surface at Turfway   *
Keeneland racetrack in Lexington, Ky., and Turfway Park in Florence, Ky., plan a joint press conference April 27 to discuss installation of the Polytrack surface, now used on Keeneland's five-eighths-mile training track, at Turfway. Details weren't available, though officials have floated the idea of installing the synthetic material on the one-mile ... Read full story
 4/26/2005
Churchill Outlines "Milkshake" Policy  *
With only a few differences, Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky. will be utilizing the same testing procedures for "milkshakes" that are in effect at Keeneland Racecourse in Lexington, Ky., and similar to those at many other North American tracks during the spring meet that begins April 30. Under the policy, outlined by Churchill president Steve Sexton ... Read full story
 4/25/2005
Sweet Catomine Retired; Will Be Bred to A.P. Indy  *
The 2004 2-year-old filly champion, Sweet Catomine, whose fifth-place finish as the favorite in the April 9 Santa Anita Derby (gr. I) was followed by a controversy over her physical condition, has been retired. "After the Santa Anita Derby, I had Sweet Catomine evaluated when she was in the barn of John Shirreffs," owner and breeder Marty Wygod told ... Read full story
 4/21/2005
Educational Event to be Held During Rolex  *
Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital and the Kentucky Horse Park Foundation will host an educational seminar at the Kentucky Horse Park (KHP) in Lexington on April 28 during the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event. The seminar is scheduled to commence following the day's dressage competition, from 4 p.m.-6 p.m. in the South Theater located in the KHP Visitor's ... Read full story
 4/12/2005
Cold Air and Lung Health  *
Researchers at Oklahoma State University (OSU) recently completed a study on airway cooling and mucosal injury during cold weather exercise. Using the Thoroughbred racehorse as a model, scientists found that even cantering in sub-freezing temperatures can induce airway obstruction (bronchoconstriction, or airway contraction). The research appeared ... Read full story
 4/8/2005
Athens Gold Medalist Cian O'Connor Disqualified  *
Following a hearing held in Zurich, Switzerland, on March 27, the International Federation for Equestrian Sports (FEI) Judicial Committee determined that there had been a breach of FEI General Regulations Art. 146.2 at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens related to the presence of the prohibited substances of fluphenazine and zuclopenthixol in the horse ... Read full story
 3/29/2005
Greater Good Listed a Colt, But Unable to Breed  *
Should Greater Good win the May 7 Kentucky Derby (gr. I), it would make the second time in the past three years the winner cannot stand at stud. Funny Cide, who won the 2003 Derby, is a gelding. Greater Good is listed as a colt but because neither of his testicles has descended, he has no value as a stallion prospect. For the record, Greater Good, ... Read full story
 3/25/2005
Conformation of the Juvenile Equine Athlete  *
"Forelimb conformation receives lots of attention because of perceived predisposition to injury (with various conformational problems)," began Liz Santschi, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, clinical associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, at the Western Veterinary Conference held Feb. 20-25 in Las Vegas, Nev. "Angular limb deformities (limbs ... Read full story
 3/18/2005
Endurance Race Requires Peak Condition  *
The World Championship 100-mile endurance race was held Jan. 27, 2005, in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The race fielded 175 horses, with flags of 41 participating countries flying proudly over the Dubai Endurance Village, a facility built especially for this event. On race day, the horses took off at a gallop under clear skies into the desert sands ... Read full story
 3/17/2005
Forelimb Conformation and the Thoroughbred Racehorse  *
"What is the relationship between conformation and performance, and what can we do to impact it?" These questions have been asked by those focused on performance in many species, and they were the focus of one presentation by Liz Santschi, DVM, Dipl. ACVS, clinical associate professor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, at the Western Veterinary ... Read full story
 3/15/2005
Risk Factors for Horse Falls in U.K. Hurdle and Steeplechase Racing   *
It is well documented that the equine fatality rate for hurdling and steeplechase racing is significantly higher than that of flat racing. The disparity in fatality rates is likely due to the fact that the types of injuries sustained in jump racing differ from those sustained in flat racing. Some catastrophic injuries, such as vertebral fractures, ... Read full story
 3/3/2005
AAEP Convention 2004 Wrap-Up: Kester News Hour  *
Probably the best-attended session at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention, the Kester News Hour features brief reports of new research that was too new or brief for inclusion in the scientific program. The information is presented in a fun, rapid-fire format by two of the country's top equine veterinary specialists--internal ... Read full story
 3/3/2005
AAEP Convention 2004: Racing Forum  *
Milton McClure, DVM; and Gary Norwood, DVM, chaired an open forum on racing at the 50th annual American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention in Denver, Colo., Dec. 4-8, 2004. Bobby Lewis, DVM, the AAEP's representative to the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium (RMTC), gave an update on what had transpired with that group in the ... Read full story
 2/14/2005
AAEP Convention 2004: Medicine II--EPO  *
One of the key factors in enabling horses to perform at their maximum is the ability to get oxygen to tissues via red blood cells. Trainers and horse owners have used a number of approaches to accomplish this, but one of those procedures can have fatal consequences, according to a report by C. Schwarzwald, DVM, Dipl., ACVIM, graduate student in the ... Read full story
 2/13/2005
AAEP Convention 2004: Sports Medicine II--Mucus  *
Susan Holmcombe, VMD, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, ACVECC, associate professor in the department of large animal clinical sciences at Michigan State University, told the group at the 50th annual American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention in Denver, Colo., Dec. 4-8, 2004, that mucus in the trachea of a racehorse can compromise his ability to ... Read full story
 2/13/2005
AAEP Convention 2004: Sports Medicine II--Furosemide  *
P. Morley, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant progessor of epidemiology and biosecurity in environmental health and clinical sciences at Colorado State University, reported on a study involving the effects of furosemide (Salix) on the performance of Standardbred racehorses at the 50th annual American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention ... Read full story
 2/13/2005
AAEP Convention 2004: Sports Medicine II--EIPH/Race Times  *
K.W. Hinchcliff, BVSc, PhD, Dipl. ACVIM, visiting fellow at the University of Melbourne in Australia, at the 50th annual American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention in Denver, Colo., Dec. 4-8, 2004 discussed the effect of EIPH on race times when furosemide was not administered. The study involved examinations of horses competing ... Read full story
 2/13/2005
NYRA Milkshake Tests to Begin Feb. 16  *
The New York Racing Association will begin pre-race and post-race testing for "milkshakes" Feb. 16 at Aqueduct. Both forms of testing will be performed in an effort to collect data to determine the best method. Random pre-race testing will be performed each day, while post-race testing will be performed on every race, NYRA officials said in a Feb. ... Read full story
 2/10/2005
Beerbaum Files Appeal in Case that Could Affect Olympic Show Jumping Team Medal Standings  *
As announced by the International Equestrian Federation (FEI) earlier this week, German Olympian Ludger Beerbaum filed an appeal on Feb. 3 with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against the decision taken by the FEI Judicial Committee. The FEI Judicial Committee disqualified Beerbaum and his horse, Goldfever 3, from the Athens Olympic Games ... Read full story
 2/9/2005
Report: Kentucky Tracks Might Test for Milkshakes  *
Kentucky racetracks could begin testing for "milkshakes" this spring under their own guidelines, officials said. A milkshake is a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and a liquid given to a horse before it competes. Milkshakes are believed to enhance performance. The old Kentucky Racing Commission in 2001 adopted a policy that banned the practice, but ... Read full story
 2/7/2005
No Fine, Suspension in New York Positives  *
Two horses who ran at Saratoga Race Course in Saratoga Springs, N.Y., last summer were disqualified from their finishing positions because of positive drug tests, but Mark Shuman, who trained both horses for owner Michael Gill, will not be disciplined in the incident. Clay's Rocket, winner of the second race at Saratoga Aug. 8, 2004, and Kalookan ... Read full story
 2/7/2005
Kentucky Panel: Adopt Model Medication Rules  *
The Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council set in motion major changes in the state's medication and drug-testing policies when it voted Feb. 4 to recommend adoption of the model rules devised by the national Racing Medication and Testing Consortium. The drug council voted 7-1 in favor of the model rules. The lone dissenter was Susan Bunning, president ... Read full story
 2/7/2005
Fractures in Thoroughbred Racehorses   *
Musculoskeletal injury is the most common cause of lost training days for Thoroughbred racehorses. This type of injury, particularly fractures, is also cited as a major reason horses leave the industry. But the incidence and characteristics of fractures in racing Thoroughbreds are not well understood. Characterizing fractures was the aim of Kristien ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
Track Surface Conditions Influence Likelihood of Racing Fractures   *
A study recently published in the Japan Racing Journal found that as turf courses become wetter and softer, fracture risk is reduced. In contrast, muddy conditions on dirt courses lead to a greater risk of horses sustaining a fracture. Masa-aki Oikawa, DVM, PhD, of the Japan Racing Association's Equine Research Institute, noted that although several ... Read full story
 2/1/2005
Drug Consortium Moves on Violations, "Milkshakes"  *
The Racing Medication and Testing Consortium has set a deadline for adoption of recommended uniform medication violations and testing protocol for "milkshakes," which are mixtures of bicarbonate of soda and a liquid given to a racehorse before it competes. The consortium met Jan. 24 for about eight hours in Southern California. It set a deadline of ... Read full story
 1/26/2005
Shock Wave Therapy in the Western Sport Horse  *
The average equine extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) patient has been examined multiple veterinarians before arriving for ESWT treatment, said Alan Donnell, DVM, of Pilot Point, Texas at the third annual Shock Wave Therapy Symposium, held this year on Dec. 3 in Denver, Colo. Donnell treats Quarter Horses and Arabians and travels to 33 major ... Read full story
 1/5/2005
Have Researchers Discovered What Makes Horses Fast?  *
Researchers at The Royal Veterinary College in Great Britain believe they've found the answer to what makes a fast racehorse. The research, funded by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council, combined data about the length, shape, and structure of horses with analysis of horses in the field to develop mathematical and computer models ... Read full story
 1/5/2005
Arizona Racing Officials Prepared to Delve into Raids, Medication  *
Arizona Department of Racing officials have planned hearings in early January for eight horse owners or trainers whose barns were raided by state and federal officials Dec. 15 at Turf Paradise in Phoenix. The raids, according to the Arizona Republic, involved tack rooms. Investigators found therapeutic medications that weren't prescribed by a veterinarian ... Read full story
 1/5/2005
Whip Use and Racing Falls   *
A study conducted by scientists at the University of Liverpool in England found that the risk of falling in hurdle and steeplechase races was significantly associated with whip use and a horse's progress while competing. The results of the work appeared in a recent issue of the Equine Veterinary Journal. The researchers looked at video recordings ... Read full story
 1/1/2005
Track Surface Conditions Influence Likelihood of Racing Fractures  *
Track surface conditions play an important role in the risk of bone fractures in racing Thoroughbreds. Unfavorable conditions of turf and dirt impair the natural shock-absorbing mechanisms of the equine limb, increasing the likelihood of a career-ending fracture. In an article published in the Japan Racing Journal, Masa-aki Oikawa, DVM, PhD, recently ... Read full story
 12/28/2004
Santa Anita Milkshake Testing to Begin Dec. 26  *
Track to test every horse in every race Santa Anita Park isn't waiting for a statewide ban to make its stand against "milkshakes." At the meet that begins Dec. 26, the Arcadia, Calif., racetrack will test every horse in every race for excess bicarbonate in its blood. "Nothing is more important for us than maintaining the highest standards of integrity ... Read full story
 12/14/2004
California Legislator Introduces Milkshake Bill  *
Assembly member Jerome E. Horton announced legislation Dec. 7 to combat illegal substances in California racehorses, in particular milkshakes. The bill would require the California Horse Racing Board to adopt emergency regulations to establish policies, guidelines, and procedures to test the total carbon dioxide concentrations in the bloodstream of ... Read full story
 12/10/2004
Planning and Preparing for the Big Adventure  *
Once you have committed to a pack trip, the preparation begins, even though it might be a year away. First of all, you must decide where you are going and obtain all possible information about the area. A letter or phone call to the regional forestry headquarters where you plan to ride will either result in information about the trails and any available ... Read full story
 11/10/2004
Impact of Valvular Heart Disease on Performance  *
Results of a four-year prospective study designed to determine the influence of training and heart size on atrioventricular (AV) valvular regurgitation (backflow of blood from the lower to the upper heart chambers) in Thoroughbred racehorses, and to determine any association between AV valve regurgitation and performance in Thoroughbreds, were presented ... Read full story
 11/3/2004
Whip Use and Risk for Racing Falls  *
A study conducted by scientists at the University of Liverpool in England found that the risk of falling in hurdle and steeplechase races was significantly associated with whip use and a horse's progress while competing. The results of the work appeared in a recent issue of the Equine Veterinary Journal. The researchers looked at video recordings ... Read full story
 11/2/2004
Louisiana Targets Blood-Doping,   *
The Louisiana State Racing Commission medication committee has asked the full commission to ban the use and possession of the blood-doping substances erythropoietin (EPO) and darbepoietin, as well as consider measures aimed at random pre-race testing for carbon dioxide caused by "milkshakes" (alkalizing agents). In the statement released by the racing ... Read full story
 10/27/2004
Positive Drug Tests at 2004 Olympics  *
Four horses that competed in the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, have tested positive for banned substances, including a gold medal winner. The four positive horses are showjumping gold medal winner Waterford Crystal, ridden by Cian O'Connor and representing Ireland; showjumper Goldfever, ridden by Ludger Beerbaum and representing Germany; event ... Read full story
 10/25/2004
Above the Surface  *
Keeneland Unveils new Polytrack surface on its training track Is Polytrack the future of racing surfaces in the United States? The five-eighths-mile training track at Keeneland in Lexington, Ky., may ultimately answer that question. PHOTOS BY ANNE EBERHARDT For two days, onlookers observed horses on the new Polytrack surface at Keeneland. Polytrack--polypropylene ... Read full story
 10/4/2004
EPO Testing Making a Difference at the Track  *
One of the most potentially damaging drugs to hit the racetrack in recent years is erythropoietin, or EPO. A synthetic version of a naturally-occurring hormone which stimulates the bone marrow to make more red blood cells, EPO was designed to treat anemia in human chemotherapy patients, and those with severe renal disease. It was considered a medical ... Read full story
 10/4/2004
Royal Kaliber Stable After Surgery in the Netherlands  *
Royal Kaliber, the stallion that took Chris Kappler to the Olympic team silver and individual bronze medals at the 2004 Olympic Games, is stable as he continues to recover from colic surgery performed in the Netherlands on Monday, Sept. 27. Jack Snyder, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, a professor in the Department of Surgical and Radiologic Services at the ... Read full story
 9/30/2004
California Horse Racing Board Proposes Ban on Milkshakes  *
Use of alkalizing agents--so-called "milkshakes"--on horses would be illegal under a new regulation proposed Sept. 15 to the California Horse Racing Board. Ron Jensen, DVM, MS, the CHRB's director of equine medicine, told the board that the agency's random surveying this spring of horses racing at Hollywood Park, Golden Gate Fields and Bay Meadows ... Read full story
 9/17/2004
Smarty Jones Makes the Move to Kentucky  *
Smarty Jones moved into his new Kentucky home at Three Chimneys Farm on Monday morning. The Pennsylvania-bred winner of this year's Kentucky Derby and Preakness left his home state Saturday for Three Chimneys Farm in Midway, Ky., where he will stand at stud. Owners Pat and Roy Chapman recently syndicated the popular 3-year-old colt for about ... Read full story
 8/16/2004
Smarty Jones Retired Due to Bone Bruises  *
Go Smarty Go--To Stud at Three Chimneys Farm By Ron Mitchell and Evan Hammonds Smarty Jones, the Elusive Quality colt whose quest for the Triple Crown came up short in the Belmont Stakes (gr. I), has been retired due to bone bruises in all four cannon bones caused by his rigorous campaign at ages two and three. ANNE EBERHARDT Smarty Jones ... Read full story
 8/4/2004
VS in Texas: Breeders' Cup Moving Ahead With Plans   *
Breeders' Cup, which has plans to set up a "disease-free zone" to allow horses to ship in and out of Lone Star Park, is moving full-steam ahead with preparations for this year's World Thoroughbred Championships even as a vesicular stomatitis (VS) outbreak continues in Texas. Thus far, the Texas VS cases have been located at least 350 miles away from ... Read full story
 8/1/2004
Efficacy of Common Anti-Ulcer Medications in Racehorses   *
Gastric ulcers are so common in racing horses that many equine practitioners maintain their racing patients on anti-ulcer medications to prevent and treat gastric ulcers. Reports in the literature place the percentage of racing horses in training with endoscopically visible gastric ulcers at grater than 80%. Unfortunately, despite the variety of anti-ulcer ... Read full story
 8/1/2004
Injuries Associated With Steeplechase Racing   *
Studies have been conducted to determine the types of injuries that occur in horses on flat racetracks in the United States and steeplechase and hunt races in the United Kingdom. Unfortunately, there is a paucity of data on injuries occurring during U.S. steeplechase races. Researchers from the Maryland duPont Scott Equine Medical Center, Virginia-Maryland ... Read full story
 8/1/2004
Lobbying for Proposed National Drug Policy Continues  *
Three months after national regulators' associations approved model rules for a proposed national medication policy, the task of lobbying jurisdictions to adopt them continues. The Association of Racing Commissioners International and the North American Pari-Mutuel Regulators' Association approved the model rules April 3 during a joint convention ... Read full story
 7/2/2004
Hidden Treasure: Retraining Racehorses  *
"A prize in every box." While that phrase refers to the little toy one finds in a box of Cracker Jacks, adopting a former racehorse is not so different: You're not quite sure what you'll get, but often the experience is fun and the horse can be a treasure for years to come. For the most part, ex-racehorses are well-trained, intelligent horses which, ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
Endurance and Endotoxemia   *
Endotoxemia in horses is usually associated with severe infections, inflammation, and colic. Endotoxin from intestinal bacteria activates release of inflammatory mediators such as thromboxane B2 (TxB2), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), prostaglandin F1-alpha (PGF1-alpha), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). These mediators produce malaise, fever, dehydration, ... Read full story
 7/1/2004
Rock Hard Ten Goes to Gate School  *
(from Belmont Park notes) In the Preakness on May 15, Rock Hard Ten, a huge colt, was especially conspicuous. As the last horse loaded into the gate at Pimlico, Rock Hard Ten had the attention of the racing world and NBC's national audience as he kicked, balked and fought his way into finally settling in the starting gate. After he ran second in ... Read full story
 5/25/2004
Governing Equine Competition   *
As the National Governing Body for equestrian sport, the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF, formerly U.S.A. Equestrian) takes seriously the importance of providing a fair and level playing field for all competitors. This mission is a large and important one. Administering the rules and regulations requires not only the work of the Federation's ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
Arkansas, Illinois Clamping Down on Equine Milkshakes   *
Arkansas and Illinois have altered their medication policies to, among other things, provide harsher penalties for trainers if a horse in their care tests positive for a milkshake (a sodium bicarbonate mixture administered via stomach tube, intended to decrease blood acidity, countering the lactic acid that is produced during high speed performance ... Read full story
 5/1/2004
USEF Powers Upheld  *
The United States Equestrian Federation's (USEF) authority to enforce its own rules and regulations has been affirmed, at least temporarily, in a federal court in Lexington, Ky. A decision on whether the injunction should be made permanent is expected in a few weeks. The Kentucky case arose from a lawsuit filed by Cody J. Williams, a self-styled bloodstock ... Read full story
 4/30/2004
Rolex Three-Day Footing Proves Sticky, But Safe  *
To the relief of riders, owners, veterinarians, and spectators at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event presented by Bayer, last week's series of deluges did not prove dangerous for horses on cross country on Saturday, April 24. Many well-conditioned horses and riders slogged through the mud to meet--if not beat--their optimum course times with few injuries ... Read full story
 4/26/2004
Rolex Schedule Modified for Weather  *
The Saturday cross country schedule at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event has been changed due to the onslaught of wet weather over the past several days. The cross country phase of the CCI**** division will begin at 9:30 a.m., while the Bayer Modified Four Star Three-Day Event will run in the afternoon. Originally, the Modified was set to begin at ... Read full story
 4/23/2004
Proposed National Drug Policy Takes Another Step Forward  *
Voluntary Salix use, 24-hour rule on non-steroidals sought Officials gathered in New Orleans for the first Joint Conference of Racing Regulators approved model rules for a national medication policy. It calls for voluntary use of Salix on race days and use of one of three non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs no later than 24 hours before a race. The ... Read full story
 4/10/2004
California Latest State to Focus on Equine "Milkshakes"  *
Random pre-race testing for "milkshakes"--the loading of bicarbonates through a stomach tube to reduce fatigue-causing buildup of lactic acid--began at Santa Anita Park in late February, but the California Horse Racing Board is referring to the program as a survey because no penalties will be applied if a horse tests positive. Concerned over widespread ... Read full story
 3/23/2004
AAEP 2003: Western Performance Horse Health  *
Attendees of the Western Performance Horse Sunrise Session at the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention were greatly interested in lameness problems that plague Western performance horses. Moderators Jerry Black, DVM, past president of the AAEP and a senior partner of Pioneer Equine Hospital in Northern California; and Scott ... Read full story
 3/11/2004
European Buyers Face New Tax on U.S. Imports  *
European horse buyers may be subject to an excise tax of at least 5% on horses they purchase and bring home from the United States as a result of trade sanctions imposed against the U.S. on March 1 by the European Union (EU). Horses are included in the list of imported products being taxed, though breeding stock and horses destined for immediate ... Read full story
 3/9/2004
AAEP Wrap-Up: Performance Horse  *
Shock Wave Therapy The general consensus question at the 2003 AAEP Convention's shock wave therapy table topic was, "How can I make this technology work for my patients?" Scott Swerdlin, DVM, MRCVS, of Palm Beach Equine Clinic in Florida, and Scott McClure, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, of Iowa State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, were ... Read full story
 3/1/2004
AAEP 2003: Conformation And Racing Problems  *
Racehorses with specific conformation are more likely to have certain musculoskeletal injuries, according to two recent studies completed at Colorado State University (CSU). At the 2003 American Association of Equine Practitioners' convention, C. Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD, DSc, FRCVS, Dr.medvet (hc), Dipl. ACVS, director of CSU's Gail Holmes Equine ... Read full story
 2/23/2004
Friends of Sound Horses Partnering with USDA to be Testing Ground for New Technology   *
Friends of Sound Horses (FOSH) announced that it has volunteered for its 2004 affiliated shows to participate in USDA testing of a new method for the detection of illegal soring agents on gaited horses. The USDA might also randomly attend horse shows affiliated with other gaited horse industry organizations (HIOs) to test the new methodology. Soring ... Read full story
 2/20/2004
AAEP 2003: Return to Racing for Roarers After Surgery  *
Results of a study from the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center suggest that there is a high chance that a horse can return to racing after surgery for laryngeal hemiplegia (partial or complete paralysis of the larynx, also called roaring) or arytenoid chondritis (inflammation of the arytenoid cartilages resulting in paralysis). Presented ... Read full story
 2/12/2004
Medication Policy Takes Somewhat Different Approach  *
The National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA) has adopted a position on medication and drug testing that states any changes in policies in each jurisdiction should be enacted only after there is scientific evidence that specific therapeutic drugs shouldn’t be used in racehorses. The National HBPA supports efforts by the national ... Read full story
 2/11/2004
AAEP 2003: Triage of Acute Racing Injuries  *
Thankfully not a large part of a racetrack veterinarian's job, severe injury of a racehorse nevertheless is one of the most visible and critical situations these practitioners must handle. Two experienced racetrack veterinarians, Mary Scollay, DVM, senior association veterinarian for Gulfstream Park and Calder Racecourses; and Celeste Kunz, VMD, chief ... Read full story
 2/3/2004
Round Pen Injuries
Has there has been an increase in hind limb lameness since the round pen has become more popular? I feel like I ruined my dream horse with round pen work starting when he was about six months old. He is nine now and mostly unridable due to a degenerative condition in his hips. I had written this off as bad luck until my friend's mare began to exhibit ... Read full story
 2/1/2004
South African Racing Loses to Equine Flu  *
The 1986 equine influenza outbreak in South Africa virtually halted racing in some parts of the country. Last month, equine flu again reared its ugly and contagious head, causing cancellation of races at several top tracks and forcing quarantine of horses suspected of being exposed to the virus. The flu affected six stabling/training complexes and ... Read full story
 1/15/2004
AQHA To Host Free "Racehorse 101" Seminar  *
On Wed., Jan. 21, the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA) will present a free seminar, "Racehorse 101," to inform racing fans about American Quarter Horse ownership. The seminar is part of the activities taking place during the Heritage Place Winter Mixed Sale, Jan. 22-24 in Oklahoma City, Okla. Current and potential owners can learn more about ... Read full story
 1/15/2004
Improved Diagnostics for the Upper Airway  *
"Endoscopy is the primary diagnostic tool for evaluation of the upper airway of the horse," said Brett Woodie, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, of Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital, at the clinic's annual client education seminar held Jan. 5 in Lexington, Ky. He reviewed the history of endoscopy and its current use at rest, and the advantages of dynamic examination ... Read full story
 1/14/2004
AAEP Tail Docking Position Statement   *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) board of directors recently approved a new position statement regarding tail docking. The statement written by the Equine Welfare Committee reads: "Tail docking in horses should only be performed when it is a medical necessity or when it is vital to ensuring the horse's safety in a work environment. ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
A Win at Any Cost?  *
The horse show scene often is one of pageantry, color, and excitement. There are handsome horses groomed until they shine, riders dressed in colorful or formal garments who ride with skill and aplomb, and judges who observe every movement and mark their scorecards with placings that can increase a horse's worth and elevate the rider's standing in the ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
Septic Arthritis and Racing Potential   *
Septic arthritis in a Thoroughbred foal significantly reduces the likelihood the animal will race, according to a study conducted by researchers at the University of Glasgow in Scotland and veterinarians with Rossdale and Partners in England. The scientists evaluated the medical records of 69 foals treated for septic arthritis and compared each foal's ... Read full story
 1/1/2004
Purina Mills and NARHA Announce an Expanded Partnership  *
Purina Mills, LLC, and the North American Riding for the Handicapped Association (NARHA) have formed a new partnership benefiting all visitors to Purina’s Gold Dealers nationwide. As of January 1, 2004, Purina will become the title sponsor of NARHA’s Stall Street Journal, a full-color quarterly publication that features inspiring stories and news from ... Read full story
 12/30/2003
Year In Review: Death of a Derby Winner  *
From The Blood-Horse year in review, featured in the Dec. 20, 2003 issue. It was the story nobody wanted to believe, yet no one could disprove. It was the biggest news item of 2003 in the Thoroughbred industry, and coming on the heels of 2002's Ultra Pick Six scandal, made it two years in a row where our most enduring story was a negative one. The ... Read full story
 12/18/2003
Regulators View Drug Policy; No Race-Day Changes Yet  *
The Racing Medication and Testing Consortium continued its march toward a national model policy on medication and drug testing Dec. 10 when regulators responded favorably to the proposal. But wholesale changes in race-day medication rules around the country aren't expected to take place any time soon. Regulators from 24 United States jurisdictions, ... Read full story
 12/11/2003
Veterinarians, Trainers Support Ky. Drug Policy  *
The debate over whether Kentucky should implement a restrictive race-day medication policy heated up Nov. 18 with calls by racetrack veterinarians and trainers to keep the current policy intact, and criticism of the way the national Racing Medication and Testing Consortium handles its business. Some speakers at the Kentucky Racing Commission-sponsored ... Read full story
 12/2/2003
Equine Welfare Award Presented to Rodeo Group  *
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) is the 2003 recipient of the American Association of Equine Practitioners' (AAEP) Equine Welfare Award, the Lavin Cup. Named for AAEP past president A. Gary Lavin, VMD, the award is presented annually to a non-veterinary individual or organization that has demonstrated exceptional compassion or developed ... Read full story
 12/2/2003
Delaware Testing for Blood-Doping Antibodies  *
The racing commissions that govern Thoroughbred and Standardbred racing in Delaware have been testing for erythropoietin (EPO) antibodies since June 1, and in the future may implement rules to penalize horses that test positive. In a joint release issued late Nov. 3, the Delaware Thoroughbred Racing Commission and Delaware Harness Racing Commission ... Read full story
 11/6/2003
Storming Home Injured Heel; Others Sustain Minor Problems  *
Sheikh Maktoum's Storming Home, seventh as the 2-1 favorite in the John Deere Breeders' Cup Turf (gr. IT), had a chunk taken out of his right hind foot when he was involved in a bumping incident with Sulamani rounding the first turn. John O'Donoghue, assistant to trainer Neil Drysdale, said the son of Machiavellian--Try to Catch Me (by Shareef Dancer) ... Read full story
 10/26/2003
Mineshaft Retired with Minor Injuries  *
Mineshaft, the leading handicap horse in the country, was retired Friday due to what trainer Neil Howard said was a small chip in his right front ankle. "This morning Dr. Foster Northrop, Mineshaft's vet, his owner, Mr. William Farish, and I had a discussion and made the decision to retire Mineshaft due to a minor problem in his ankle that we have ... Read full story
 10/6/2003
Potential Police Mounts Wanted in the United Kingdom  *
The West Yorkshire Police in the United Kingdom have made a public appeal for new horses for the unit, according to a report in the online edition of Horse and Hound. This is the third time the force has requested “gift” horses, and this request follows budget cuts and a number of retirements of police mounts. West Yorkshire Police horses are used ... Read full story
 9/30/2003
Horse Dies After Italian Race  *
The traditional Italian bareback race known as the Palio has claimed another equine life, prompting protests from animal rights activists, according to the Associated Press. Alghero, a 6-year-old sorrel, was kicked by another horse before the Aug. 16 race. Municipal veterinarians checked the horse over and allowed Alghero to run, however at the first ... Read full story
 9/3/2003
Late-Year Competition Horse Care   *
For many of us who compete with our horses, regardless of which discipline we compete in, fall is the time of year to seek the advice of our equine practitioners regarding any maintenance that will have our horses ready for competition next season. While many of us compete throughout the year, some of us are less active during the winter months. If ... Read full story
 9/1/2003
New President for the Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation  *
The Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation's Board of Directors recently named Terence Collier president of the organization at its most recent meeting. Collier, best known in the horse racing industry as the director of marketing and the sales announcer for Kentucky-based Thoroughbred auctioneers Fasig-Tipton, succeeds John Stuart, who resigned from his ... Read full story
 8/25/2003
Three Horses Euthanized, Jockeys Seriously Injured in Del Mar Spill  *
Edited from track reports Jockeys Tyler Baze and Jose Silva suffered serious injuries Monday in a five-horse spill which marred the running of the fourth race at Del Mar. Xrays disclosed that Baze sustained fractures of the great toe on the left foot and the top of the foot itself, while Silva suffered a fracture of the L-1 lumbar vertebra, but no ... Read full story
 8/12/2003
Death of a Derby Winner: Slaughterhouse Likely Fate for Ferdinand  *
(Reported by The Blood-Horse, 7/25/03) Ferdinand, the 1986 Kentucky Derby winner who went on to capture the following year's Horse of the Year title with a dramatic victory over 1987 Derby hero Alysheba in the Breeders' Cup Classic, is dead. The Blood-Horse has learned that the big chestnut son of Nijinsky II died sometime in 2002, most likely in a ... Read full story
 8/8/2003
Ferdinand Followup: Owners Promise to Tighten Contracts and Supervision   *
(Published in the Aug. 2 issue of The Blood-Horse) In the wake of the disturbing news of Ferdinand's demise in Japan, letters and e-mails from fans expressing both regret and anger have flooded in-boxes. It is likely, however, that the legacy Ferdinand leaves by virtue of his unseemly death will rival his achievements on the racetrack. The death ... Read full story
 8/8/2003
Making Cross Country Jumps Safer   *
A company in the United Kingdom has created a jump design to lessen the severity of cross-country jumping falls. In 1999, several U.K. riders died from accidents on cross-country jumps. The resultant British Horse Trials Association study committee hired the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), an expert in transportation safety, for scientific investigation, ... Read full story
 7/1/2003
Future of Equine Research  *
Attendees of the Thoroughbred International Exposition and Conference (TIEC) in Lexington, Ky., June 20-22, learned about the past and future of equine research. Edward Bowen, president of the Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, spoke about past and current research of the Grayson-Jockey Club and other foundations raising funds for equine research. ... Read full story
 6/25/2003
Gelding: Why and When? A Veterinarian Explains  *
Editor's Note from The Blood-Horse: As Funny Cide pursued the Triple Crown, it brought to the fore the question of why some horses are gelded and others are not. Dr. Larry Bramlage, on-call veterinarian for the American Association of Equine Practitioners, shed light on the subject. Castration: Creation of a Gelding from a Colt or Stallion Castration ... Read full story
 6/9/2003
Frangible Pins: Making Cross Country Jumps Safer  *
A company in the United Kingdom has created a jump design to lessen the severity of cross-country falls. In 1999, several U.K. riders died from accidents on cross-country jumps. The resultant study committee hired the Transport Research Laboratory (TRL), an expert in transportation safety, for scientific investigation, data analysis, accident investigation, ... Read full story
 5/20/2003
British Race Ahead at Ascot Research Conference  *
On March 5, 2003, leading researchers from the United Kingdom gathered at Ascot Racecourse to present practical aspects of their research findings to the British Thoroughbred industry. Arranged by the Veterinary Advisory Committee of the Horserace Betting Levy Board (HBLB) and sponsored by Ascot Racecourse, Transforming Racehorse Health in the 21st ... Read full story
 5/13/2003
Thoroughbred-Interest Veterinarians Join AAEP On-Call Program  *
Three veterinarians with specific interests in the Thoroughbred athlete are the newest spokespersons for the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) “On Call” Program. Randolph Hayes, DVM; Scott Hopper, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS; and Keith Merritt, DVM, join the team of nearly 30 AAEP-member veterinarians who provide accurate and timely health-care ... Read full story
 4/30/2003
The Sound Barrier  *
The debate over fast workout times for sale 2-year-olds The specter of catastrophic injury continues to haunt sales of Thoroughbred 2-year-olds in training. Every time a horse breaks down during an under-tack show, the debate heats up again. Are immature racing prospects being asked to work too fast too soon? John Kimmel, a trainer who has a veterinary ... Read full story
 4/30/2003
Not-So-Fleet Feet  *
When a performance horse slowly goes off form, any number of things can be the cause. Could he have ulcers? Is he being overtrained? Is something subtle and mysterious going on with his metabolism? The problem could be much simpler than that--his feet might just hurt. A racehorse’s feet and legs are subjected to unbelievably high stresses during racing. ... Read full story
 4/29/2003
Health Event During Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event  *
Following the first day of dressage at the Rolex Kentucky Three Day Event on Thursday afternoon, Rood & Riddle Equine Hospital will be sponsoring an educational event at the Kentucky Horse Park South Theater in Lexington, Ky. The sessions will run from 4:00-6:00pm, and a light supper reception will be served following the final speaker. The reception ... Read full story
 4/17/2003
Drug Raid at Australia Racetrack Produces Zero Positives  *
A massive out-of-competition drug-testing raid was conducted at Randwick racecourse Monday morning in Australia as 30 trainers had blood samples taken from horses in their stable. The Australian Racing Forensic Laboratory (ARFL) Racing tested the samples for performance-enhancing drugs, including EPO and peptide hormone. New South Wales chairman of ... Read full story
 4/16/2003
When to Feed Your Athlete   *
What is the best feeding practice for horses before competition exercise or a hard training session? There is no real consensus on this issue and, similar to the field of human performance nutrition, there are many opinions on what is best. Some trainers will withhold all feed, some will decrease the amount of hay fed, and others will increase the ... Read full story
 4/1/2003
AAEP Convention: Kester News Hour   *
Probably the best-attended session of the AAEP annual convention, the Kester News Hour provides brief reports of studies that were too new or too brief to be included in the longer scientific sessions. Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, the president-elect of the AAEP and a surgeon at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky.; and John Madigan, ... Read full story
 3/1/2003
AAEP Convention: Milne Lecture--Bucked Shins  *
The Milne Lecture at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Convention is also known as the State of the Art Lecture because each Milne Lecture, regardless of topic, is selected for its groundbreaking qualities and potential to change the paradigms by which veterinarians and researchers understand that topic in the horse. This year’s ... Read full story
 2/27/2003
AAEP Convention: Fractures of the Distal Phalanx   *
Fractures of the distal phalanx (also known as P3 or the coffin bone) are common, especially in racehorses, noted Tara S. Rabuffo, DVM, of the University of Pennsylvania’s New Bolton Center. She and her colleagues reviewed case records and all related diagnostic materials on 73 racehorses (26 Thoroughbred and 47 Standardbred during an 11-year period) ... Read full story
 2/25/2003
Gulfstream Park Suspends Privileges For Veterinarian Patrick  *
Leonard Patrick, the primary veterinarian used by owner Mike Gill and trainer Mark Shuman, had his privileges suspended by Gulfstream Park on Wednesday for improper storage of Class 3 and Class 4 narcotic medication. The irregularities were noted during a search of Patrick's vehicle on Monday, one week after the leg of Gill's Casual Conflict was amputated ... Read full story
 2/14/2003
No Kentucky Derby for Injured Vindication; May Return for Travers, Breeders' Cup  *
Padua Stables' Vindication, champion 2-year-old of 2002 and early favorite for the Kentucky Derby, has been taken off the Derby trail due to an injury to his left front suspensory. The son of Seattle Slew had been battling a slight foot bruise following his five-furlong work in :58 2/5 on Jan. 25, but had recovered and returned to the track on Feb. ... Read full story
 2/8/2003
Morphine Positives Bring Call for Threshold Levels  *
Be My Royal, winner of the one the biggest races of the National Hunt season to date, faces disqualification in connection with a rash of positive drug tests for traces of morphine in British and Irish races due to contaminated feed. The situation has brought a call for threshold levels for morphine and other substances that may occur through environmental ... Read full story
 1/14/2003
AAEP 2002 Racehorse Medication Table Topic  *
Horse racing has far more stringent medication regulations than most other equine disciplines, and this was reflected in the Racehorse Medications Table Topic discussion at the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) convention on Friday, Dec. 6. The majority of the discussion revolved around the legality of using various medications and ... Read full story
 1/2/2003
Juvenile Bowed Tendons and Racing Prognosis  *
“Juvenile bowed tendons, or ‘baby bows,’ are not uncommon in yearlings and weanlings,” said Johanna Reimer, VMD, Dipl. ACVIM, Dipl. ACVC (cardiology), of the Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital in Lexington, Ky., at the 2002 American Association of Equine Practitioners convention. In her presentation “Enlarged Superficial Digital Flexor Tendons in Immature ... Read full story
 12/17/2002
National HBPA to Issue Revised Medication Proposal  *
The National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association is prepared to release a revised proposal for a national policy on drug testing and therapeutic medication. The document deals with Class 1, 2, 3, and 4 medications, as well as prohibited practices. In the preamble, the National HBPA says its goal is to "harmonize medication policies and ... Read full story
 12/11/2002
Kentucky Drug Council Discusses EPO Options  *
The Kentucky Equine Drug Research Council met Thursday at Keeneland to discuss options to identify and enforce the prohibited use of erythropoietin (EPO). The drug, commonly called EPO and marketed under the name Epogen, is suspected to be in use in horses at the racetrack, although the substance, which increases the production of red blood cells, ... Read full story
 10/25/2002
Halternatives   *
The past 15 years, various techniques have resulted in a type of Arabian "halter" presentation that poses the horse in a now-familiar stance. What is missing in this presentation? To me it's the evidence of trust, affection, and mutual esteem cherished by Arabian breeders for over three thousand years. Equine-related activities represent the fastest-growing ... Read full story
 10/1/2002
Feed for Speed   *
Few dispute that nutrition is important for athletic performance in racehorses. However, I'd wager that there is much less agreement among horse owners, nutritionists, and veterinarians when asked to expound upon the "nitty gritty" of what works (and what doesn't) when feeding a horse in race training. Some focus on the virtues of the latest fad supplement, ... Read full story
 10/1/2002
Eventing Recommended for Exclusion from the 2008 Olympics  *
The Olympic Programme Commission report recommending that eventing be excluded from the 2008 Olympics was presented to the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board on Aug. 28 in Lausanne, Switzerland. The commission was in charge of reviewing the Olympic program and presented recommendations on the program of the 2008 Olympic Games in ... Read full story
 9/4/2002
Racing Toward Injury  *
There seems to be little doubt that musculoskeletal injury--including injury to bones, joints, tendons, and ligaments--is a major problem for Thoroughbred racehorses. This impression has been borne out by studies of "wastage" in the racing industry, where wastage describes the losses that occur during the training and racing of a horse. In some studies, ... Read full story
 9/1/2002
Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy and Back Pain  *
As many as 40% of all cases of equine back pain are the result of soft tissue injury. The primary causes include chronic and recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (CER and RER, respectively), and an inherited enzyme deficiency called polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM). Quarter Horses, Warmbloods, and draft horses are particularly susceptible to PSSM, ... Read full story
 8/1/2002
Buddha's Prognosis?  *
Kentucky Derby pre-race second choice Buddha was declared out of the race on Friday morning because of a sore left front foot. Buddha worked on Thursday and cooled out sound. But on Friday morning when he was taken from his stall at 5 a.m., he was favoring his left leg. Dr. Larry Bramlage, an AAEP On-Call veterinarian working the Derby, said it was ... Read full story
 5/3/2002
Veterinarians On-Call at Derby  *
The American Association of Equine Practitioners created the On-Call program 11 years ago to assist media in understanding injuries and treatment of horses before, during, and after upper-echelon equine events. Most of the 70 events covered by On-Call veterinarians last year were Thoroughbred races, with some Standardbred and Quarter Horse events included. This ... Read full story
 5/2/2002
Weather Watchers at the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event  *
Weather during the cross-country phase played a key role in the outcome of this year’s Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, held in Lexington, Ky., at the Kentucky Horse Park on April 25-28. While some riders, including American winner Kim Vinoski on the 9-year-old Thoroughbred Winsome Adante, had the luck of going before incessant rains hit on Saturday, ... Read full story
 5/1/2002
Jump Landings and Tendon Strain  *
Lameness in show jumpers is often caused by forelimb tendon injury. The superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) is most frequently injured, followed by the interosseus tendon (IT), and the accessory ligament (AL), while the deep digital flexor tendon (DDFT) is rarely injured. Repetitive landings over high fences produce significant forces on these ... Read full story
 5/1/2002
Next Racehorce Medication Meeting Set for May 1  *
Racing leaders who convened last December in Tucson for the industry’s first-ever Racehorse Medication Summit will hold a second meeting on Wed., May 1 at the Executive Inn in Louisville, Ky. Discussion will focus on the implementation of the group’s recommendations on medication, testing, security, and enforcement that were developed in December. ... Read full story
 4/19/2002
Medication, Regulatory Matters on Front Burner  *
While the Thoroughbred industry makes an aggressive push toward unification on the issue of drug testing and medication, two organizations involved in the regulation of racing--the Association of Racing Commissioners International (RCI) and the National Association of Pari-Mutuel Regulators (NAPRA)--continue to go their separate ways. Lonny Powell, ... Read full story
 4/19/2002
Collapsible Cross-Country Fences to be Tried in Britain   *
In the wake of several fatal injuries to international-level three-day event competitors in 1999 and 2000, cross-country course designers began working to come up with safer fence designs, including fences which "give" on impact. Over the past three years, several designs for "frangible" (readily or easily broken) cross-country fences have been brought ... Read full story
 4/1/2002
Racetrack Vets Could Form Own Organization  *
As the National Thoroughbred Racing Association Racing Integrity and Drug Testing Task Force prepared for its March 12 meeting, some racetrack veterinarians moved closer to forming their own organization. Representatives from The Race Track Practitioners, a Lexington-based group, said that a proposed universal medication policy it floated last fall ... Read full story
 3/12/2002
Medication Summit Panel Moves Forward on Plan   *
In a Jan. 28 teleconference, representatives from about 20 racing industry organizations unanimously endorsed a plan to develop a national medication policy. Members of the Thoroughbred, Standardbred, and Quarter Horse racing industries originally met at the American Association of Equine Practitioners' (AAEP) Racehorse Medication Summit Dec. 4, 2001, ... Read full story
 3/1/2002
Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event Announces Television Coverage  *
The Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, presented by Bayer, April 25-28, 2002, has announced an extensive schedule of television coverage for this year. Outdoor Life Network (OLN) will broadcast the Rolex Kentucky Three-Day Event, America's only four star event, Fri., April 26 from 6:30-7:00 p.m. EDT, Sat., April 27 from 7:00-8:00 p.m. EDT and Sun., April ... Read full story
 2/27/2002
AAEP Convention 2001: Kester News Hour   *
The Kester News Hour kicked off the scientific program of the AAEP convention. Named for the late veterinarian General Wayne O. "Sage" Kester, first president of the AAEP, the hour was designed to cover timely topics that were too brief and/or too new to be included in the scientific portion of the convention. Larry Bramlage, DVM, MS, Dipl. ACVS, ... Read full story
 2/1/2002
Medication Panel Agrees to Move Forward on Plan  *
Representatives from about 20 industry organizations unanimously endorsed a plan to develop a national medication policy during a teleconference Jan. 28. The action followed the first Racehorse Medication Summit, held Dec. 4, 2001, in Tucson, Ariz. Participants authorized the creation of a veterinary advisory committee that will compile a list of ... Read full story
 1/29/2002