Vet says tests are ‘far too sensitive’
On April 17th 2004 I treated LandLiebe for mild back pain. It was essential that she remained calm during the period of treatment, and therefore I administered a mild sedative. This is a routine procedure, commonly used and in the best interests of the horse, and with the information available to me. I advised my client Cian O’Connor that the medication would be out of the horse’s system in no later that two weeks. It is only now that I have established the link that both horses have tested positive for medication that I administered, well over a month, in both cases before competition.
I wanted to reiterate that the medication that I administered to the horses on both occasions is firstly, my standard procedure, and secondly is in the best interests of the horse, so that it doesn’t further injure itself during a rest and recuperation period remote from competition.
It amazes me that even traces of this sedative are still evident in a horse’s system well over a month after being administered. This throws up the argument that many vets throughout the world are putting forward, that these tests are far too sensitive, given the increased number of positive medication tests in international equestrian competitions in recent times.
This raises the question as to whether any treatment can be given to a horse during its competitive life without risking testing positive for prohibited substances at the international shows.
There is a huge difference between giving a horse medication during a time of rest and recuperation, with the only intention being the animal’s welfare, or on the other hand, someone deliberately administering a booster, for example, which would enhance the horse’s performance.
