It’s a common sight at recognized horse shows: An official drug tester randomly singles out a horse after a class and follows it back to the barn area to collect a blood or urine sample. Maybe you’ve even experienced it with your own horse. This testing ensures compliance with rules designed to protect equine welfare.

Many equine associations use the United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) Equine Drugs and Medication Rules, which outline specifics in regard to both allowed and prohibited medications, drugs, and other substances.

Abiding by the Rules: Shows vs. Barns

Common approaches for dosing and timing non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) administration around the home barn can vary greatly from what’s allowed at a particular show. Before giving your horse any medication, contact your horse’s primary veterinarian and check your governing association’s rule book.

For example, NSAIDs, often used to treat conditions such as the pain and inflammation associated with equine osteoarthritis, usually have restricted doses based on allowed blood levels at the time of competition, as well as withdrawal time recommendations for meeting those levels