NEWS

Horses competing in United States Polo Association Events are subject to the USPA Equine Medications Testing Program. The USPA Equine Medications Rules lists Permitted Medications (antibiotics, dewormers, ulcer medication, etc.), Restricted Medications (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory, corticosteroids) and Prohibited Medications (any medication that is not listed as Permitted or Restricted). Per Rule 4, there are certain conditions such as colic or a laceration, that require immediate medical attention within 24-hours of an event. In these instances, the treating veterinarian can submit a Medication Report Form.

It is important to know who has access to your horse(s) and what they may be feeding them either intentionally or unintentionally. Equally important, is a precise understanding of the contents of the supplements, treats or human-food fed to your horse as contamination could result in a positive test.

The USPA would like to provide the following best practices to help members understand the risk of possible contamination.

For all hay, grains, supplements, and horse treats:
• Ensure items are purchased from a reputable source.
• Maintain a detailed list of the types and quantities of all feed provided.
• Store all feed carefully. Be mindful that open containers can lead to accidental contamination, including certain types of molds which can create naturally occurring contamination.

For medications:
• Store medications carefully, restricting access to those proficient in proper administration.
• Clearly label medications with the name of the respective horse receiving them.
• Exercise caution when opening medication containers to prevent accidental spillage into other feeds or medications.
• Wear gloves when administering medications or applying topical medications.
• After handling any medications, remember to wash your hands.
• Properly dispose of empty medication packaging.

For herbal/natural products:
• Products containing CBD or Hemp could result in a positive test.
• Be mindful of additional products such as (but not limited to) valerian, kava kava, passionflower, skullcap, chamomile, vervain, lemon balm, leopard’s bane, nightshade, capsaicin, comfrey, devil’s claw, hops, laurel, lavender, red poppy and rauwolfia.

For human food:
• If you ever share your favorite snacks with your horse, it is essential to know the ingredients to ensure they are not only safe for your horse, but also free from anything that could result in a positive test.
• While some believe that adding the remnants of yerba mate to a horse’s feed can stimulate its appetite, it is crucial to note that yerba mate contains extremely high levels of caffeine, which would result in a positive test.

For environmental contaminants:
• Naturally occurring plants such as poppies, crocuses, nightshade and lupins could lead to a positive test.
• Coffee plants could lead to contamination of caffeine, paraxanthine, theobromine and theophylline.
• Clean stalls and buckets between horses, especially horses that are being stabled temporarily.
• Only use buckets that can be properly disinfected.

If you are uncertain about anything being fed to your horse, consult your veterinarian.