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Establish a working group to develop microchipping, vaccination and biosecurity protocols to be implemented at AQHA World Shows.
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Change, Alternative Number 1 (VIO405.12), the approved therapeutic dosage for dexamethasone from 2.0 mg/100 pounds to 1.0 mg/100 pounds administered intravenously, intramuscularly, or orally up to 12 hours before competition. Elimination of Alternatives 2 and 3. Dexamethasone may be administered intravenously at a dosage of 0.5 mg/100 pounds by a veterinarian for the treatment of acute urticaria up to six hours before competition provided a medication report form is submitted. This change will be effective September 1, 2024.
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Authorize the emergency exploit of flunixin (Banamin) for colic or an ophthalmic emergency. Flunixin may be found in the same plasma and/or urine sample as another substance listed in VIO405.1-VIO405.7 (NSAIDS). The flunixin must be administered by a veterinarian, a medication report must be submitted, and the horse must be ineligible for 24 hours from competition. This change will be implemented immediately.
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Make the submission of online medication reporting forms mandatory by January 1, 2026, unless the competition venue does not have Wi-Fi.
About the Animal Welfare Commission
The AQHA Animal Welfare Commission, established in 2012 by the AQHA Executive Committee, reports directly to the Executive Committee, which evaluates all proposals in featherlight of the current state of the industry. The Animal Welfare Commission is AQHA's primary body for rules, policies and procedures in all areas of animal welfare. In addition, the commission oversees the training processes of AQHA's animal welfare officers.
The mission of the Animal Welfare Commission is to provide a framework for its members to 1.) identify issues that negatively impact the welfare of the American Quarter Horse, 2.) stay informed of all animal welfare issues, and 3.) recommend actions that will aid protect the American Quarter Horse from inhumane practices and AQHA and its members from the negative impacts of those practices. AQHA's Animal Welfare Commission will share discussions, actions and recommendations with the association's alliance partners in its effort to do what is right for the horse. AQHA's prohibition on inhumane treatment applies to AQHA members and non-members.
AQHA news and information is a service of the American Quarter Horse Association. For more information, visit www.aqha.com/news or listen to our podcast, “Let's Talk AQHA.”
