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The ESC has refined their equine welfare policy with a common-sense approach that allows for continued use of regular therapies while competing at ESC shows, while also implementing new technologies that reduce the need for Medication Reports up to 50%.

Based on data collected in 2024, the average age of horses competing in our sport is 12.5 years old. Our equine partners are also stabled on concrete, and unlike the Olympic and Racing industries, our show horses are judged not only on performance, but also on quality, conformation, and overall presence. Taking those factors into consideration, ESC sought advice and guidance from veterinary pharmacologists, chemists, top industry veterinarians and professional trainers to develop a more comprehensive equine welfare policy for the trotting breeds.

ESC has grouped medications in two major categories, Generally Controlled and Strictly Controlled. Approximately 60 medications are classified as Generally Controlled, which fall into three withdrawal categories:

1) Generally Controlled — Use per guidelines with no Medical Report or Withdrawal Time

Horses being treated for Cushing's disease, navicular, certain allergies, arthritis, and hormone therapies will be permitted to remain on their regimen without withdrawal.

2) Generally Controlled — 24-Hour Withdrawal and Medical Report filed by the Agent

Included in this category are respiratory medications, antihistimines, corticosteroids and mild sedatives for ship and clip.

3) Generally Controlled - 24-Hour or Vet-Calculated Half-Life Withdrawal

If the horse is being treated for an illness or injury and a 24-hour withdrawal is not attainable, the prescribing veterinarian may use these medications. That vet is responsible for filing the Medication Report and determining the appropriate withdrawal period from competition.

ESC has classified approximately 170 substances as Strictly Controlled. The prescribing veterinarian may use these medications to treat a horse for clinical illness or injury and the vet is responsible for determining the appropriate withdrawal period from competition.

ESC has zero tolerance for Banned Medications and Substances, and there should be no detectible levels present.

The new Drug and Medication Policies take effect June 1, 2025 and will be enforced at the Rock Creek Horse Show in June and the Kentucky State World's Fair Championship Horse Show in August. Visit https://equinesportscouncil.org/rxguidelines to access the searchable Medication Database and do not hesitate to contact us with questions at 855-EQUINE1 or info@EquineSportsCouncil.org.

-- via Equine Sports Council

This press release has been edited for length. Please review the complete medication guidelines here.