FEI to launch global consultation on the use of NSAIDs in horse sport
Horse riders, owners, vets and trainers from around the world are to be involved in a global debate on the use of drugs such as bute in horse sport.
The governing body of horse sport, the International Equestrian Federation (FEI), has launched a global consultation on the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) drugs in competition.
The consultation will begin next month, when existing research on the use and effects of NSAIDs on the competition horse will be published in a dedicated website.
Everyone involved in horse sport around the world — from event organisers to grooms — will be invited to contribute their thoughts to the FEI via the website.
In July, information will be sent out to equestrian nations worldwide to enable them to attend a debate in Switzerland in August over whether limited levels of NSAIDs such as bute should be allowed in horse sport.
The August debate will be chaired by a panel of leading vets from around the world — many of whom spoke out in horror last November at the FEI’s plans to introduce NSAIDs.
Following the August meeting, a formal consultation will begin with National Federations, to allow them an educated and informed vote before the FEI general assembly in November.
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British World Class Performance Director Will Connell said the consultation is “exactly what is required”.
He told Horse & Hound: “I hope riders, owners and every involved in the sport participates — this is a hugely important subject and people need to get involved.”
Last November the FEI met with huge opposition after a vote was passed to allow NSAIDs in horse sport without prior discussion with national federations.
The governing body later backtracked, saying more consultation was needed.
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