Exhibitors and organizers of horse shows and other equine competitions in Maryland need to comply with certain state animal health regulations (COMAR 15.11.12.01 forward) in order to hold and attend equine events. The requirements are in place to help ensure the health of animals at competitions and to prevent the outbreak or spread of disease. This information clarifies details posted on the Maryland Department of Agriculture’s Web site at an earlier date.

Requirements for Equine Show Exhibitors

• Coggins – Each exhibitor must have and present to show organizers a current (within 12 months) and valid negative Coggins (testing for equine infectious anemia) certificate for each equine.


• Interstate CVI – Exhibitors originating from states bordering Maryland (Pennsylvania, Delaware, Virginia, West Virginia, and to include New Jersey and the District of Columbia) do not need an Interstate Health Certificate (CVI). All those coming from other states must have an Interstate CVI signed by a veterinarian prior to entering the state.


• Self-Certification of Equine Health Form – For 2009, a Self-Certification of Equine Health Form is required for each equine entering a fair/show-type event where multiple livestock species are present. The form must be available for inspection if requested. Those participating in equine-only shows and events are exempt from this requirement; however, it is good practice to thoroughly double check the health and skin condition of the animal before departing for the event. The form provides an easy checklist to do this. It is available at www.mda.state.md.us/animal_health/fair_show/fair_show_info.php Exhibitors may not bring an animal having apparent or known signs of a contagious or infectious disease to a show.

Requirements for Equine Show Organizers

• Notice of Show – Horse show and event organizers must provide the Maryland Department of Agriculture Animal Health Office with written notice of the date, time and location of any exhibition at least 60 days in advance of the event (50 Harry S. Truman Parkway, Annapolis, MD 21401 or animalhealth@mda.state.md.us). Exceptions are provided for events sponsored, sanctioned or otherwise approved by an association or other umbrella organization that holds multiple exhibitions in a calendar year or for events funded by the Maryland Fair and Show Board and for exhibitions (COMAR 15.11.14.05). If unsure of whether this applies to a particular event, contact MDA at 410/841-5810 for clarification.


• Rejection of Animals – Show organizers must exclude from the exhibition premises any animal having apparent or known signs of a contagious or infectious disease.


• Coggins – Show organizers must ascertain and be able to show upon request that all equines at the show have a current (within 12 months) and valid negative Coggins test. Collecting a copy of the official report is good practice.


• Interstate CVI – It is not necessary for show officials to collect Interstate Health Certificates (CVI).


• Self-Certification of Equine Health Form – While it is not required for show organizers to collect these forms, exhibitors at fair/show type events where multiple species of livestock are present must complete them and have them available for inspection. It may be good practice to start collecting a copy along with the Coggins report.
  

All forms and requirements for participation in Maryland fairs and shows for equine and livestock species are available online at www.mda.state.md.us/animal_health/fair_show/fair_show_info.php