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 accusations among trainers that the illegal race-day treatment is a problem, an anonymous donor provided several thousand dollars to launch the program in California. The Oak Tree Racing Association volunteered additional funding to the CHRB, which claims to be short on funds, to ensure the tests would continue for at least three months.

In some jurisdictions, particularly at Standardbred tracks, pre-race testing for milkshakes provides immediate results. A horse found to have suspiciously high levels of carbon dioxide or bi-carbonates will be scratched and a suspension and fine is likely for the trainer. But the California tests, overseen by CHRB equine medical director Dr. Ron Jensen, are being sent to the testing laboratory at The Ohio State University.

No results have come back, according to Dr. Rick Arthur, a prominent veterinarian and a director for Oak Tree. A spokesman for the CHRB said overall results of the survey will be released, but no individual horses testing positive will be identified. Jensen was traveling outside of the U.S. and could not be reached to provide further information