Equestrian Canada (EC) wishes to inform stakeholders of important updates and reminders regarding the EC Equine Medication Control Program.

Biophosphonates

Based on the recommendation of technical experts on the EC Equine Medication Control Committee (EMCC), starting Aug. 1, 2018, samples collected from horses competing in EC sanctioned competitions will be tested for the presence of bisphosphonates, of which only two, OSPHOS® and TILDREN®, are approved for use in horses in Canada.

For the remainder of the 2018 competition season (until Dec. 31, 2018) no notifications, penalties or warning letters will be issued in the case of a positive finding of OSPHOS® or TILDREN®. The EMCC will monitor the detection of OSPHOS® and TILDREN® in EC samples to help determine how their administration should be regulated in 2019 and beyond.

Wondering what bisphosphonates are and why EC is monitoring their usage? Click here for more information.

Hemp Oil

Hemp oil is considered a nutritional supplement, not a veterinary drug. With regards to nutritional supplements, EC stresses “Buyer Beware” as they may not be subject to the same rigorous standards as an approved veterinary drug.

The production of industrial hemp in Canada is highly regulated and should only contain very low levels (less than 0.3%) of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). However, as THC is very fat soluble, it could accumulate in the horse’s fat stores, from which it is eliminated very slowly and could cause a positive test, resulting in an infraction.

To learn more about the potential risks in using Hemp Oil, click here.

Reminder: Important Information Regarding Equine Medication Control

  • Any product not licensed for use in horses in Canada, other than the few specific exceptions outlined in the Equine Medication Control Guidelines, are not permitted.
  • Beware of claims from manufacturers stating that a supplement or preparation is approved by EC, or guaranteed not to result in a positive test. These claims are false, as EC does not provide approvals or guarantees for equine supplements or drugs.
  • It is possible for your veterinarian to submit a sample from your horse on your behalf to Maxxam laboratories for specific analysis for certain medications. Please contact Maxxam for further details and testing costs by visiting http://maxxam.ca/services/forensic-equine-drug-testing, emailing [email protected] or calling 1-604-638-3251.
  • EC advises working with your veterinarian to come up with a medication/treatment plan that complies with the EC Equine Medication Control Program for the competition season.

Questions? Comments?

For questions or comments regarding the EC Equine Medication Control Program, please contact:

Jennifer Eastwood
Director, Technical Programs
613-287-1515 x 119
[email protected]