Editor's note: This is the latest in a series in the TDN to help industry members better understand the procedures under the new HISA and HIWU regulations.
TDN: There have been changes to the protocols regarding electrolytes. What has changed?
HISA: Last month, HISA released updated guidance concerning the use of electrolytes before races and vets' list workouts. The key points for horsemen and veterinarians to know are summarized below:
• Electrolytes that are administered orally are permitted up to 24 hours before a horse's scheduled race or vets' list workout. Examples that fall in this category include powders that are top-dressed or mixed in the feed, as well as electrolytes administered via paste or drench gun.
• Unsupplemented isotonic electrolyte solutions such as lactated ringer's solution are permitted up to 24 hours before a horse's scheduled race or vets' list workout when administered intravenously.
• Electrolytes administered via nasogastric (stomach) tube are permitted up to 48 hours prior to a horse's scheduled race or vets' list workout.
• Salt and mineral blocks may be made available to a horse at any time.
• Unsupplemented isotonic electrolyte solutions may be consumed by free choice by the horse, i.e., electrolyte water in the stall, at any time.
The recent guidance expands the permissiveness of electrolytes under HISA's Anti-Doping and Medication Control Program, bringing their use in line with that of oral vitamins. This change was made to further promote equine health, especially in hot and humid environments in which electrolyte supplementation may be necessary due to excessive sweating.
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