It is a priority of the racing industry that the welfare of all participants, including the animals, is maintained at the highest possible standards.
A requirement of registration is that trainers provide proper facilities and accommodation for the animals in their charge and these animals are maintained to the highest levels. Stewards actively conduct inspections of properties to ensure that the proper upkeep of the animals and the establishment is maintained.
On race days qualified veterinarians, who are experienced with the animals that are competing, ensure, amongst other things, that the welfare of the animals is never compromised.
In addition the veterinarians are on hand to provide advice to industry participants as well as any necessary treatment required on race day
The Stewards rely heavily and as a consequence are strongly guided by the opinions of the Course Veterinarians in respect to matters relating to animal welfare.
The restrictions on drugs in racing, which includes stimulants, analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs, not only ensures the confidence of the betting public that races are determined through honest means, but also ensures that the animals competing do so on their own merits without compromising their welfare.
Trainers and others in the racing industry are warned that aminocaproic acid is a prohibited substance and as such is screened for in race day samples
As from 1 October 2009, a new testing method will be introduced by the Australian racing laboratories which will allow the direct detection of hydrocortisone hemisuccinate (arising from the use of hydrocortisone sodium succinate) in blood and urine. This method does not require quantitative measurement of the hydrocortisone concentration and the application of the urinary threshold specified in AR.178C(1)(f) or HR.188A(2)(f).
| Name: | Dr Peter Symons |
| Description: | Racing Industry Veterinarian |
| Email: | peter.symons@rwwa.com.au |
| Phone: | (08) 9277 0759 |
| Mobile: | 0404 893 041 |
| Fax: | (08) 9479 3116 |
| Name: | Dr Judith Medd |
| Description: | Racing Industry Veterinarian |
| Email: | judith.medd@rwwa.com.au |
| Phone: | (08) 9277 0759 |
| Mobile: | 0419 933 719 |
| Fax: | (08) 9479 3116 |
