what is a drug?
Lynn E Taylor (LTaylor@otterbein.edu)
Mon, 4 Nov 1996 10:10:06 +0000
Howdy: This is such a gray area, with much debate. Most people will
agree that competitors intend to improve performance through
conditioning, diet, equipment, etc. It is this subject of "intent"
that makes regulation difficult. i.e.: feeding sodium bicarbonate
daily in a horse's food vs. giving an oral load just before a harness
race. You're giving the same thing, but is the intent different?
Obviously pharmacological substances are discouraged, some are
illegal, but the "nutritionals" and nutracueticals and supplements
are tough. Yes,. we all want our horse to perform better, but how do
we distinguish and regulate??? It's certainly a hard question, and I
don't know if there is any clear cut answer, unless groups (like
AHSA) actually come up with a specific and detailed list of
prohibited compounds, combinations of compounds, and amounts
allowable. But then again, how do you decide to ban something? Field
experience? Lab tests?? Hmmm....good happy hour discussion, I suppose
for some people!!!...Lynn
Lynn E. Taylor, MS, PhD
Assistant Professor
Dept. of Equine Science
Otterbein College
Westerville, Oh 43081
ltaylor@otterbein.edu