Endurance.Net Ridecamp Archives

I believe that I've presented the case opposing  this rule change 
sufficiently, and there is no need to keep repeating it.

heidi@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
> Joe, this has been pretty well gone over, but will just say that the 
> veterinary committee and many very experienced ride veterinarians do NOT 
> think that the current system is "working well" and strongly feel that 
> this change would be an improvement. 
>  
> Over the years, we have not had "hard, documented evidence" on any of 
> the other changes that have greatly improved the sport for our horses, 
> either--not for gates into holds, not for "fit-to-continue," not for 
> lowering pulse criteria below 72.  What we had was the input from ride 
> veterinarians who saw horses in trouble from the way we did things.  
> They were right then--and they are most likely right now.
>  
> We can decide that what we do is "enough" and quit making progress--but 
> I agree with you that we can still improve our horse death rate.  I 
> would add that death is not the only negative outcome of overriding our 
> horses--such horses can continue to live, but be metabolically 
> compromised or suffer from exhaustion-related illnesses.  To me, those 
> are not acceptable, either.  We need to continually strive to make the 
> best better.
>  
> We heard all about the horrible consequences that would result from 
> making other changes that have benefitted the welfare of our horses.  
> Those horrible consequences didn't come to pass then, and I really don't 
> think they will come about if we make this change, either.  I am a firm 
> believer in taking possible consequences into account--but the benefits 
> of this one far outweigh the inconveniences.
>  
> I know no one will change your mind on this issue, but if there is 
> anyone who has missed this discussion so far, they need to be aware that 
> there is another side to the issue than the one that you have presented.
>  
> Heidi
>
>  
>
>
>     1.  This change is unnecessary.  The current system has stood the test
>     of time, and is working very well.  I have seen no hard, documented
>     evidence that shortening the time allowed for the post-ride vet exam
>     will improve horse welfare or horse safety at all.  Pulse recovery is
>     only one of many factors the vets look at.  


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