2021 leadership resource guide - aaep

C12021 Leadership Resource GuideAmerican Association of Equine Practitioners C1

A m e r i c a n A s s o c i a t i o n o f E q u i n e P r a c t i t i o n e r s

2021 Leadership Resource Guide

TABLE OF CONTENTS

2021 Board of Directors .......................................................................................................................... 2

AAEP Staff & Responsibilities by Department ......................................................................................... 3

Council Listings ....................................................................................................................................... 4

Committee Listings

Educational Programs ......................................................................................................................... 4

Finance & Audit ................................................................................................................................. 5

Infectious Disease ................................................................................................................................ 5

Member Engagement .......................................................................................................................... 5

Nominating ......................................................................................................................................... 5

Performance Horse .............................................................................................................................. 5

Professional Conduct & Ethics ........................................................................................................... 6

Racing ................................................................................................................................................. 6

Scientific Review & Editorial .............................................................................................................. 6

Wellness .............................................................................................................................................. 6

Awards ..................................................................................................................................................... 7

Equine and Veterinary Organizations .................................................................................................... 11

AAEP Student Chapters ......................................................................................................................... 14

Regulation and Legislative Advocacy Resources ................................................................................... 16

AVMA Representation 2021 ............................................................................................................ 16

AAEP Ethical and Professional Guidelines ............................................................................................. 17

Genetic Defects ................................................................................................................................. 18

Equine Welfare .................................................................................................................................. 19

AAEP Principles of Equine Welfare .............................................................................................. 19

Equids Used in Entertainment, Shows and for Exhibition ........................................................... 19

Practice of Hemi-Castration ........................................................................................................ 20

Stewardship of the Horse ............................................................................................................ 20

Transportation and Processing of Horses .................................................................................... 20

Management of Mares Utilized in the PMU Collection Industry ................................................. 20

Management of Bureau of Land Management Wild Horses and Burros ...................................... 20

Use of Horses in Urban Environments ......................................................................................... 21

Use of Vesicants ........................................................................................................................... 21

Practice of Soring ......................................................................................................................... 22

Tail Alteration in Horses.............................................................................................................. 22

Thermocautery or Pin Firing ....................................................................................................... 22

Use of Hog Rings ........................................................................................................................ 22

Position on Equine Exercise ......................................................................................................... 22

Horse Show ....................................................................................................................................... 22

Horse Show Official Veterinarian ................................................................................................ 22

Medication ........................................................................................................................................ 23

Endurance Horse Medications ..................................................................................................... 23

Therapeutic Medication for the Racehorse .................................................................................. 23


Therapeutic Medication for the Competition Horse .................................................................... 24

Use of Anabolic Steroids .............................................................................................................. 24

Use of Corticosteroids ................................................................................................................. 25

Use of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Competition Horses ...................................................... 25

Racing ............................................................................................................................................... 25

Private Practice by Regulatory Veterinarians ............................................................................... 25

Reproduction .................................................................................................................................... 25

Veterinary Management of Broodmares ...................................................................................... 25

Transported Semen as it Relates to Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA)........................................................ 26

Veterinary Management of the Breeding Stallion ......................................................................... 26

Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) ........................................................................................................ 26

Breeding Terminology .................................................................................................................. 26

Sales Issues ........................................................................................................................................ 27

Therapeutic Medication to Horses for Sale at Public Auction ..................................................... 27

Cryptorchid Definition ................................................................................................................ 28

Dental Malocclusions .................................................................................................................. 28

Pre-Sale Videoendoscopic Examination of the Upper Airway at Public Auction .......................... 28

Post-Sale Examination of Horses Intended for Racing ................................................................. 29

Reporting Purchase Examinations ............................................................................................... 29

Purchase Exams at Public Auction ............................................................................................... 30

Radiographs – Custody and Distribution .................................................................................... 30

Sale Disclosure ............................................................................................................................. 30

Veterinary Practice ............................................................................................................................ 30

Practice of Veterinary Medicine ................................................................................................... 30

Roles of Healthcare Providers in Veterinary Medicine ................................................................. 30

Levels of Supervision ................................................................................................................... 31

Contingency Fees ......................................................................................................................... 31

Conflicts of Interest ..................................................................................................................... 31

Equine Dentistry .......................................................................................................................... 32

Euthanasia ................................................................................................................................... 32

Equine Veterinary Case Referral .................................................................................................. 32

Equine Veterinary Compounding ................................................................................................. 33

Judicious Use of Antimicrobials .................................................................................................. 34

Policy for Membership Denial and Disciplinary Procedures .............................................................. 35

AAEP Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws .......................................................................................... 39

AAEP 2020-2023 Strategic Plan ..................................................................................... inside back cover

2 AAEP

2021 AAEP BOARD OF DIRECTORS

PresidentScott A. Hay, DVMTeigland Franklin & Brokken12277 SW 55th StSte 900Fort Lauderdale, FL 33330(954) [email protected]

President-ElectEmma K. Read, DVM, MVSc, DACVS5133 Reserve DrDublin, OH 53017-8400(403) [email protected]

Vice PresidentRobert P. Franklin, DVM, DACVIMFredericksburg Equine Veterinary Services937 Leyendecker RdFredericksburg, TX 78624(830) [email protected]

Immediate Past PresidentDavid D. Frisbie, DVM, Ph.D., DACVS, DACVSMRCSU – ORC/TMI300 W Drake RdFort Collins, CO 80523(970) [email protected]

Emma Adam, DVM, DACVIM, Ph.D. (2023)University of KentuckyPO Box 12243Lexington, KY 40582(484) [email protected]

Erin Denney-Jones, DVM (2023)Florida Equine Vet Services IncPO Box 120913Clermont, FL 34712-0913(352) [email protected]

James A. Zeliff, DVM, MBA (2023)Allegheny Equine Associates9015 Sampson LnMurrysville, PA 15668-9368(724) [email protected]

Luke Bass, DVM, MS, DABVP (2021)Colorado State University3358 Laredo LnFort Collins, CO 80526-4234(970) [email protected]

Mitchell K. Rode, DVM (2021)Clarke Equine Wellness & Performance PCPO Box 392Berryville, VA 22611-0392(540) [email protected]

Amanda M. House, DVM, DACVIM (2022)PO Box 100136Gainesville, FL 32610(352) [email protected]

TreasurerAmy L. Grice, VMD, MBAAmy Grice VMD MBA LLCPO Box 192320 E Crittenden StVirginia City, MT 59755(845) [email protected]

Sarah Reuss, VMD, DACVIM (2022)1020 Cathedral DrAlpharetta, GA 30004-6729(484) [email protected]


Education – Karen Pautz, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Educational Programming Curriculum Innovations & E-LearningTeam: Carey Ross – Scientific Publications Coordinator

Finance & Operations – Lori Rawls, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Meetings & Conventions General Office Operations Physical Plant Financial ReportingTeam: Debbie Miles – Trade Show Coordinator Jayson Page – Office Manager

Industry Relations – Keith Kleine, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Advertising, Sponsorships & Partnerships Advocacy & Public Policy Other Industry Issues (Equine Welfare, Infectious Disease, Disaster Preparedness & Relief) Equine Disease Communication Center The Foundation for the HorseTeam: Dana Kirkland – Sponsorship & Advertising Coordinator Katie McDaniel – EDCC Communications Manager Paul Ransdell – Foundation Senior Development Officer Elaine Young – Foundation Development & Communications Coordinator

Information Technology – Kevin Hinchman, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Internal IT (Firewalls, Employee Equipment, Networks, etc.) Member IT Functions (Website, Apps, Listservs, etc.)Team: Amity Wahl – Communications & Technology Coordinator

Marketing & Communications – Sally Baker, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Marketing, Communications & Public Relations Publications Social Media On Call Wellness & Diversity Initiatives AAEP Touch ProgramTeam: John Cooney – Publications Coordinator Giulia Garcia – Communications Coordinator

Membership – Nick Altwies, DirectorAreas of responsibility: Membership Programs & Services Renewal & Retention Volunteers Student ProgramsTeam: Sadie Boschert – Student Programs Coordinator Megan Gray – Member Concierge Kristin Walker – Membership & Event Services Coordinator

To email an AAEP staff member, use the individual’s first initial followed by last name @aaep.org (e.g., [email protected]).

Offices

American Association of Equine Practitioners

4033 Iron Works Parkway | Lexington, KY 40511

(800) 443-0177 (U.S. and Canada) | (859) 233-0147 | Fax: (859) 233-1968

AAEP office e-mail: [email protected]

AAEP website: aaep.org

The Foundation for the Horse website: foundationforthehorse.org

Equine Disease Communication Center website: equinediseasecc.org

AAEP Staff & Responsibilities by Department

Executive Director – David FoleySue Stivers – Executive Assistant

4 AAEP

COUNCILS & COMMITTEES

Councils are volunteer groups within the AAEP with a specific charge to provide guidance to the AAEP leadership. Councils may recommend the formation of task forces, member education, position statement development, motions for the board of directors, or other courses of action on a particular issue related to their subject area.

Committees are volunteer work groups within the AAEP that have an ongoing, annual function and a focused charge related to a specific area of veterinary medicine, the equine industry or association governance. Policies and procedures relative to committees (e.g. appointment, terms, eligibility, etc.) are further defined in the AAEP Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

Foundation Advisory CouncilTo partner with staff in fundraising and development efforts, prioritize and make funding recommendations, and propose poli-cies for board consideration for The Foundation for the Horse, AAEP’s 501(c)(3) charitable arm.

Rick Mitchell, Chair(203) 270-3600 • [email protected]

Anthony Blikslager, Vice Chair(919) 513-7725 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Mitchell RodeStaff Liaison: Keith Kleine

President’s Advisory CouncilTo serve as a resource for the president and provide historical perspective for the leadership.

David Frisbie, Chair and Board Liaison(970) 217-2565 • [email protected]

Kathleen M. AndersonRick M. Arthur G. Marvin Beeman Jeffrey T. Berk Jerry B. Black Jeff A. BleaLarry R. BramlageThomas D. BrokkenG. Kent CarterJames R. Coffman Robert W. Copelan Douglas G. CoreyR. Reynolds Cowles, Jr.Ann E. DwyerDaniel V. Flynn Benjamin Franklin, Jr. David D. Frisbie

Eleanor M. GreenJ. Clyde Johnson A. Gary Lavin Thomas R. LenzRobert D. Lewis Margo L. MacphersonC. Wayne McIlwraithJohn S. MitchellWilliam A. MoyerGary L. NorwoodScott E. PalmerRichard J. SheehanTerry D. SwansonCharles D. VailJohn T. VaughanHarry W. WernerNathaniel A. White, II

2021Myra BarrettScott HayBarbara JonesCharlie Scoggin

2022Heidi BanseRaul BrasJosh DonnellRyland Edwards, IIISherry JohnsonCraig LesserEmma ReadMaria SchnobrichDebbie Spike-Pierce

2023Erin ContinoRob Franklin

2021Michelle BartonBrian CarrollBonnie ComerfordMonty McInturffBill MoyerMelanie Smith TaylorKathleen Waldorf

2022Anthony BlikslagerMichelle ColemanBridget HeilsbergBecky McConnicoRon McDanielRick MitchellAmy Poulin-BraimNat WhiteBrooke WoodruffJim Zeliff

2023Drew BuechleyBetsy JulianoAl KaneEric KrawittStephen ReedJulie Wilson

2021Mary BellAlan GoldhahnLauren KleineBernadette Smith

2022Margaret BrosnahanGeorge DyckIan Harrison

2023Casille BattenNatalie Cooper- TownsKenneth JacobsenSamantha MixonBart Sutherland

Ex-officio Members:Stuart BrownNora GrenagerClara MasonBrad Tanner Jim Zeliff

Welfare & Public Policy Advisory CouncilTo monitor welfare issues and matters of public policy in both the equine industry and veterinary profession for the purpose of advising AAEP leadership on such matters as well as to make recommenda-tions on a particular course of action by the association.

Alina Vale, Chair(858) 354-0080 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Sarah ReussStaff Liaisons: Sally Baker/Keith Kleine

Educational Programs CommitteeTo provide input and oversight on all AAEP-related educational pro-gramming, including the annual convention, ancillary meetings, and online education; to review/develop policy recommendations relative to continuing education; and to review and make recommendations based on member evaluations of programming.

Charlie Scoggin, Chair(859) 233-0371 • [email protected]

Erin Contino, Vice Chair(970) 556-3931 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Luke BassStaff Liaison: Carey Ross


Finance & Audit CommitteeTo review the finances for both the AAEP and The Foundation for the Horse and to make recommendations to the board on achiev-ing board-defined financial goals along with funding strategies to achieve them; to review and make recommendations to the board on financial policy and budgets taking into account investment performance, economic conditions and other factors that may impact short- and long-term financial stability; to develop budget-ing projections with staff, for both the AAEP and The Foundation, that integrate the strategic plan and other initiatives; to approve the budget within the finance committee for submission to the board; to make recommendations on board appropriations and capital expenditures; and to conduct semi-annual review with investment advisor(s). Additionally, the committee will ensure an accounting firm is selected for an annual audit or review of both the AAEP and The Foundation for the Horse with results reviewed by the committee prior to presentation to the AAEP board.

Amy Grice, Chair and Board Liaison(845) 399-1886 • [email protected]

Staff Liaison: Lori Rawls

Infectious Disease CommitteeTo monitor and update disease information on a regular basis for the Equine Disease Communication Center and AAEP websites, as well as AAEP Control and Vaccination Guidelines; and to make additions, updates and relevant changes as needed. Additionally, the committee will also serve to evaluate infectious disease issues affecting the equine population and recommend courses of action to the AAEP leadership.

Sally DeNotta, Chair(607) 422-4200 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Amanda HouseStaff Liaisons: Keith Kleine/Katie McDaniel

Member Engagement CommitteeTo identify and develop future leaders within the AAEP for councils, committees and task forces.

Will French, Chair(720) 234-3684 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Emma AdamStaff Liaison: Nick Altwies

Nominating CommitteeTo oversee elections of board members; provide input to the board on policy matters related to leadership in the association; and to see that leadership positions are filled on a fair and equitable basis with the best interest of the association in mind.

Jeff Berk, Chair(352) 843-3030 • [email protected]

Staff Liaison: David Foley

Performance Horse CommitteeTo proactively identify and address issues of importance to equine veterinarians and horse show entities; to provide leadership and expertise on all aspects of the performance horse that affect the health and welfare of the horse and the integrity of the competition; to communicate to AAEP members and other stakeholders AAEP positions and recommendations on those issues; and, to educate AAEP members and stakeholders on best practices and ethical care of the performance horse.

Mark Baus, Chair(203) 733-0789 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Erin Denney-Jones

Staff Liaison: David Foley

2021Jacquelin BoggsNoah CohenKatie FlynnPiper NortonAbby SageKarie Vander Werf

2022Lisa FultzSiddra HinesAmy JohnsonBarbara JonesAngela Pelzel- McCluskeyAshley Whitehead

2023Ashley BoyleSally DeNottaRon Vin

Ex-officio member:Nat White

COMMITTEES

2021Amanda ArmentroutJackie ChristakosLiberty GetmanKaren JackmanSarah ReussOlivia Rudolphi

2022Jackie BoggsJeremiah EasleyBridget HeilsbergJennifer LintonDane Tatarniuk

2023Betsy CharlesWill FrenchCaleb HarmsZach LoppnowKaren NyropJennifer RedaHolly StewartHarry Werner

2021Rob FranklinDavid FrisbieLisa Metcalf

2022Rick Mitchell

2023Amy GriceJim Zeliff

Non-AAEP ex-officio member:Drew Buechley

2021Margo MacphersonMitchell RodePhoebe Smith

2022Jeff BerkFoster NorthropSarah Reuss

2023David Frisbie

2021Mark BausBrent HagueSherry JohnsonMark Revenaugh

2022Kathleen AndersonLiz BarrettLane EasterSarah GoldFaith HughesRick MitchellAndrea Sotela

2023Lori BidwellAmy Poulin-BraimOlivia RudolphiStephen SchumacherMike Tomlinson

6 AAEP

Professional Conduct & Ethics CommitteeTo review and analyze ethical issues facing the AAEP membership and to educate the membership on these issues; to formulate and review recommendations relative to AAEP position statements as they pertain to ethical practice; to develop and conduct a review procedure for evaluating complaints and allegations of unethical practice by AAEP members; and, to recommend disciplinary action to the board regarding membership privileges.

Duane Chappell, Chair(217) 827-0093 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Jim ZeliffStaff Liaison: David Foley

Racing CommitteeTo proactively identify and address issues of importance to equine veterinarians and racing authorities; to provide leadership and expertise on all aspects of racing that affect the health and welfare of the horse; to communicate to AAEP members and racing stake-holders, the AAEP’s positions and recommendations pursuant to the welfare and safety of the horse; and, to educate AAEP mem-bers and industry stakeholders regarding best practices and ethical care of the racehorse.

Jeff Berk, Chair(352) 843-3030 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Emma AdamStaff Liaison: Sally Baker

Scientific Review & Editorial CommitteeTo help develop the definitive program content for AAEP CE Meetings by providing input to the Educational Programs Committee (EPC) and assisting in the production of the highest quality proceedings papers through review.

Charlie Scoggin, Chair(859) 233-0371 • [email protected]

Erin Contino, Vice Chair(970) 556-3931 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Luke BassStaff Liaison: Carey Ross

Wellness CommitteeTo develop and provide resources to the membership on wellness and wellbeing issues, including educational programming, in an effort to improve quality of practice and life.

Rob Franklin, Chair(830) 990-9052 • [email protected]

Board Liaison: Amanda HouseStaff Liaison: Sally Baker

COMMITTEES

2021Ryan CarpenterKevin DunlavyEoin KellyClayton McCook

Ex-officio member:Clara Mason

2022Jeff BerkJeff BleaMike LatessaJohn MadisonJohn PelosoMary Scollay

2023Jennifer DurenbergerL. Chip JohnsonChristopher KawcakDeborah LamparterSara LangsamAlison MooreSusan Stover

2021Stacy AndersonBrent CassadyJennifer DurenbergerNick HuggonsRosemary LoGiudiceMary Scollay

2022Dionne BensonJackie ChristakosChris Wilhite

2023Dixie BurnerRyan CarpenterJuliea McCallPeter MorreseyCaitlin O’SheaMary Beth Whitcomb

2021Liz ArbittierMyra BarrettBen BuchananAshley CraigLeslie EasterwoodCasey GruberBarbara JonesKelley JonesLisa KatzMelissa KingValerie MoormanKaren NyropJohn PelosoAlfredo RomeroSarah SampsonCarrie SchlachterCharlie ScogginMike TomlinsonJeremy Whitman

2022Leea ArnoldHeidi BanseBeth BiscoeRaul BrasJim BryantTy CorbiellJosh DonnellRyland Edwards, III Bill GilsenanAmy JohnsonCody JohnsonTaylor MyersPeter MorreseyMeg MullinBritany Nehring- LappinMike PownallMaria SchnobrichDebbie Spike-PierceAmanda TrimbleClaudia TrueCara WrightKate Wulster

2023Anna ChapmanErin ContinoJack EasleyAimee Eggleston AhearnRobyn EllerbrockRyan FerrisNick HuggonsLaura JavsicasMeghann LustgartenTim LynchAshley Olds-SanchezNicole ScherrerLauren SchnabelKatie SeabaughJeremy Shaba

2021Keith ChaffinRob FranklinAmy Grice

2022Aimee Eggleston AhearnMargo MacphersonJamie Pribyl

2023Will FrenchCara RosenbaumErin Trawick-SmithStephanie Walbornn


Sage Kester Beyond the Call AwardPresented to an individual who has made significant and long-lasting contributions to equine veterinary medicine and the community, the “Beyond the Call” award is named in honor of its first recipient, the late General Wayne O. “Sage” Kester, DVM.

Past Winners

2020 Scott Palmer, DVM 2018 Tom Lenz, DVM 2017 Nancy Collins, DVM 2010 Charles Raker, VMD 1999 G. Marvin Beeman, DVM

The Lavin Cup, The Equine Welfare Award of AAEPThe purpose of this award is to recognize a non-veterinary organization or individual that has demonstrated exceptional compassion or developed and enforced rules and guidelines for the welfare of horses.

Past Winners

EligibilityIndividuals eligible for this award are those persons who have not received a degree in veterinary medicine and do not practice veterinary medicine. However, the individual must have been directly responsible for performing an act or acts to benefit the field of equine veteri-nary medicine in any or all of the following areas:

• Leadership • Product Development • Public Service • Public Policy Development • Volunteer Service • Animal Advocacy • Research Findings • Humane Education

The accomplishments may be based on a sustained effort or an extraordinary single achievement.

AAEP George Stubbs AwardThe George Stubbs Award recognizes the contributions made to equine veterinary medicine by individuals other than veterinarians. The award is named for George Stubbs (1724-1806), the artist and teacher who played a vital role in veterinary education. He studied and taught anatomy at York Hospital in England, using detailed drawings as a guide to equine anatomy. His reference book, Anatomy of the Horse, published more than 200 years ago, is still universally recognized as an authoritative anatomical depiction.

Past Winners

2016 Jay Hickey President, American Horse Council (1993-2016)

2014 Dell Hancock Chair, Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation

2011 Susan McDonnell, PhD Equine Behaviorial Researcher

2008 John K. and Marianne Castle Benefactors of the bi-annual International Equine Conference on Laminitis and Diseases of the Foot

2007 Roy and Gretchen Jackson and Michael Matz

Barbaro’s Owners and Trainer2007 George Bagby, MD, MS Orthopedic Surgeon2005 Edward L. Squires, PhD

Equine Reproduction Researcher and Professor

2004 Gene Pranzo, Director Equine Research Foundation

Dorothy Havemeyer Foundation

2000 Gary L. Carpenter AAEP Executive Director 1991-2000

1999 Kenneth L. Maddy Former California State Senator1997 Duncan Alexander

American Live Stock Insurance Company

1993 Paul Mellon Philanthropist, horseman1993 R. Richards Rolapp, Esq.

President, American Horse Council (1978-1993)

2020 New Vocations Racehorse Adoption Program

2019 The Right Horse Initiative2017 Ryerss Farm for Aged Equines2016 Michael Blowen, Founder,

Old Friends Equine2014 Robbie Timmons, President,

Canter USA2012 Christian Veterinary Mission2010 Society for the Protection of

Animals Abroad (SPANA)

2009 North American Equine Ranching Information Council (NAERIC)

2008 Hanover Shoe Farms2007 Finger Lakes Thoroughbred

Adoption Program2005 Days End Farm Horse Rescue2004 Herb and Ellen Moelis,

Thoroughbred Charities of America

2003 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA)

2002 Dayton O. Hyde1999 Tom Dorrance1998 Thoroughbred Retirement

Foundation, Inc.1997 American Quarter Horse

Association1996 California Horse Racing Board

AwARDS

8 AAEP

Distinguished Educator Award (Academic)This award, instituted in 2013, honors an individual educator who by his or her actions and commitment has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners.

Past Winners

2012 Jill R. Johnson, DVM2011 Jill Beach, VMD2009 John T. Vaughan, DVM R. Dean Scoggins, DVM 2008 Timothy R. O’Brien, DVM, MS, PhD John V. Steiner, DVM, DACT2007 James N. Moore, DVM Howard E. Gill, DVM2006 Thomas Divers, DVM

2005 Charles F. Reid, DVM2004 Robert M. Kenney, DVM Leon Scrutchfield, DVM2003 Norman W. Rantanen, DVM, PhD, MS, DACVR A-O/ASIF International Foundation’s Veterinary Division Loren H. Evans, DVM

2002 John F. Fessler, DVM Ronald L. Genovese, VMD2001 Robert Baker, DVM M.B. Teigland, DVM2000 Albert Gabel, DVM Charles Raker, VMD John D. Wheat, DVM

2020 Mary Scollay, DVM Keith D. Kleine, MS2018 Kent Fowler, DVM2016 William A. Moyer, DVM2015 Brad Mitchell2014 Larry R. Bramlage, DVM, MS C. Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, PhD2013 Harry W. Werner, VMD2012 Midge Leitch, VMD

2009 Scott E. Palmer, VMD Sally J. Baker, APR

2008 Susan L. White, DVM, DACVIM2007 Gary L. Norwood, DVM2006 Larry R. Bramlage, DVM, MS John E. Madigan, DVM Claude A. Ragle, DVM 2005 Tom R. Lenz, DVM, MS

2004 Nathaniel A. White, II, DVM, DACVS

2002 H. Steve Conboy, DVM Jay G. Merriam, DVM

2001 Nat T. Messer, IV, DVM David L. Foley, CAE

2000 R. Bruce Hollett, DVM Mrs. Lucy Kester

Distinguished Educator AwardThis award recognized individuals who made a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners, either in an academic setting or as a mentor. Beginning in 2013, this award was separated into two distinct awards honoring academic training and mentorship.

Past Winners

Distinguished Service AwardThis honor recognizes individuals who have provided exemplary service to the AAEP or a similar organization to the benefit of the horse, horse industry or the profession of equine veterinary medicine.

Past Winners

Distinguished Educator Award (Mentor)This award, instituted in 2013, honors an individual who by his or her actions and commitment has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners through mentoring.

Past Winners

2019 W. David Wilson, BVMS, MS2018 John Stick, DVM, DACVS2017 Peter J. Timoney, FRCVS2016 Dennis E. Brooks, DVM, PhD, DACVO2015 Virginia B. Reef, DVM, DACVIM, DACVSMR, DECVDI2014 Terry L. Blanchard, DVM, MS, DACT2013 Frank A. Nickels, DVM

2020 Stephen E. O’Grady, DVM, MRCVS 2019 Terry D. Swanson, DVM 2018 Richard Estes, DVM2015 John W. Lee, Jr., DVM2013 Barrie D. Grant, DVM

AWARDS


AWARDS

The President’s Award The President’s Award honors individuals who have demonstrated a dedication to the association during the past year by contributing a significant portion of time and expertise to benefit the health and welfare of the horse. The sitting AAEP president selects the recipient of this award, which was introduced in 2008.

Past Winners

AAEP Research Award This award, instituted in 2013, recognizes an individual who has completed research that has or will make a significant impact on the diagnosis, treatment or prevention of equine disease. Nominations are open to all individuals whose research is acknowledged by presentation or publication and by peer review as a significant advancement in equine medicine or innovation in equine science. Nominees must have had their research presented or published during the two years prior to when nominations are submitted to the AAEP.

Past Winners

Nominations for AAEP awards may only be made by AAEP members.A nomination form may be obtained through the AAEP office, 4033 Iron Works Parkway, Lexington, KY 40511, (859) 233-0147;

or online within the “About” section at aaep.org. Nominations must be received by June 1.

Distinguished Life MembersThis distinction recognizes regular members who have made outstanding contributions to the association throughout their career.

Past Winners

2020 Susan L. White2017 Harry W. Werner2016 Glenn P. Blodgett2015 Nathaniel A. White, II2014 Terry D. Swanson2013 Benjamin Franklin, Jr.2012 Nat T. Messer, IV2011 Douglas G. Corey2010 Jerry B. Black 2009 C. Wayne McIlwraith Thomas R. Lenz2008 Larry R. Bramlage2007 Robert D. Lewis2006 Charles D. Vail J. Clyde Johnson2002 James L. Voss2001 Peter F. Haynes

2000 Robert K. Shideler A. Gary Lavin James R. Coffman1999 John T. Vaughan1998 Ralph C. Knowles1997 William “Rex” Hinshaw1996 Manuel A. “Tommy” Thomas, Jr.1993 DeWitt Owen, Jr.1992 Delano L. Proctor, Jr. Robert W. Copelan1991 James T. O’Connor, Jr. G. Marvin Beeman1989 W. Dan Roberts Edwin A. Churchill Eugene R. Carroll1987 Stanley M. Teeter William M. Romane

1986 Gene M. Bierhaus Paul E. Hoffman1985 Frank J. Milne1984 M.B. Teigland1983 Wayne O. Kester1980 Jack K. Robbins Alan H. Edmondson1976 Charles E. Hagyard1974 Floyd C. Sager Paul J. Meginnis1972 Donald A. Price1967 Angel C. Pou1959 Marion L. Scott John G. Hardenburg Willard F. Guard

2020 Sherry A. Johnson, DVM, MS, DACVSMR2019 Katherine Ann Flynn, BVMS2018 John G. Peloso, DVM, DACVS and family2017 Stuart E. Brown, II, DVM Amy L. Grice, VMD, MBA2016 Nathaniel A. White, II, DVM, DACVS2015 Kenton D. Morgan, DVM

2014 Rick M. Arthur, DVM2013 Edward W. Kanara, DVM2012 Jay G. Merriam, DVM2011 David D. Frisbie, DVM David L. Foley, CAE2010 Scott E. Palmer, VMD Foster Northrop, DVM2009 Stephen O’Grady, DVM, MRCVS2008 Midge Leitch, VMD

2020 Katrin Hinrichs, CVM, Ph.D., DACT2018 C. Wayne McIlwraith, BVSc, Ph.D., DSc, FRCVS, DACVS2014 Donald P. Knowles, DVM

10 AAEP

Past Presidents 1955-2020

1955 Marion L. Scott*1956 Willard F. Guard*1957 Horace N. Davis*1958 Edwin M. Churchill*1959 Wayne O. Kester*1960 Jordon Woodcock*1961 M.B. Teigland*1962 William O. Reed*1963 Jack K. Robbins*1964 William R. McGee*1965 Ora R. Adams*1966 Joseph E. Burch*1967 R. Scott Jackson*1968 Neal D. Lusk*1969 Delano L. Proctor, Jr.*1970 Joseph C. O’Dea*1971 Frank J. Milne*

1972 Thomas E. Dunkin*1973 Robert W. Copelan1974 Robert K. Shideler*1975 G. Marvin Beeman1976 James T. O’Connor, Jr.*1977 Joseph A. Solomon*1978 W. Dan Roberts*1979 Bernard F. Brennan*1980 DeWitt Owen, Jr.*1981 John T. Vaughan1982 Robert L. Boss*1983 Stewart K. Harvey*1984 Daniel V. Flynn1985 Charles D. Vail1986 James R. Coffman1987 Richard J. Sheehan1988 J. Fred Arnold*

1989 James L. Voss*1990 Edward S. Murray*1991 Robert A. Jack*1992 Peter F. Haynes*1993 Dan R. Evans*1994 A. Gary Lavin*1995 J. Clyde Johnson1996 Terry D. Swanson1997 Rick M. Arthur1998 Gary L. Norwood1999 Robert D. Lewis2000 Benjamin Franklin, Jr.2001 C. Wayne McIlwraith2002 Jerry B. Black2003 Tom R. Lenz2004 Larry R. Bramlage2005 Scott E. Palmer

2006 Thomas D. Brokken2007 Douglas G. Corey2008 Eleanor M. Green2009 Harry W. Werner2010 Nathaniel A. White, II2011 William A. Moyer2012 John S. Mitchell2013 Ann E. Dwyer2014 Jeff A. Blea2015 G. Kent Carter2016 Kathleen M. Anderson2017 R. Reynolds Cowles, Jr.2018 Margo L. Macpherson2019 Jeffrey T. Berk 2020 David D. Frisbie

*deceased

Frank J. Milne State-of-the-Art Lecture

The Frank J. Milne State-of-the-Art Lecture debuted at the 1997 AAEP Convention in Phoenix, Ariz. Named for AAEP past president and distinguished life member Frank J. Milne, the lecture series features state-of-the-art research on subjects and techniques considered important by the equine veterinary profession.

2020 John A.E. Hubbell – Moving Equine Anesthesia from an Art toward a Science 2019 Dean W. Richardson – The Tao of Equine Fracture Repair 2018 Virginia B. Reef – Straight from the Heart: Untangling the Complexities of the Equine Cardiovascular System 2017 Padraic M. Dixon – The Evolution of Horses and the Evolution of Equine Dentistry 2016 Norm G. Ducharme – Equine Upper Airways: Intersection of Evidence-Based Data, Emerging Discoveries and the “Veterinary Art” 2015 Thomas J. Divers – The Equine Liver in Health and Disease 2014 John E. Madigan – Gumshoe Sleuthing in the World of Infectious Disease and Neonatology: Discoveries That Changed Equine and Human Health 2013 Sue Dyson – Equine Lameness: Clinical Judgment Meets Advanced Diagnostic Imaging 2012 Stephanie J. Valberg – Muscling in on the Cause of Tying Up 2011 Noah D. Cohen – Equine Epidemiology: Counting for Something in Equine Practice 2010 Dennis E. Brooks – Catastrophic Ocular Surface Failure in the Horse 2009 Larry R. Bramlage – Operative Orthopedics of the Equine Fetlock Joint 2008 Stephen M. Reed – A Review of Neurological Diseases 2007 Dickson D. Varner – Revisiting the Perception of Sperm 2006 Nathaniel A. White, II – Colic 2005 C. Wayne McIlwraith – Joints, Arthroscopy to Gene Therapy 2004 Peter Rossdale – Maladjusted Foal 2003 Alfred M. Merritt, II – Gastroenterology 2002 David M. Nunamaker – Orthopedics, Bucked Shins 2001 James N. Moore – Gastrointestinal Disease 2000 Harold F. Hintz – Nutrition 1999 Joe Mayhew – The Spinal Cord 1998 O.J. Ginther – Equine Pregnancy 1997 N. Edward Robinson – Lower Airway of the Horse

AWARDS


EqUINE AND VETERINARy ORGANIzATIONS

EQUINE AND VETERINARY ORGANIZATIONS

American Association of Veterinary Parasitologists

Dr. Adriano Vatta, Secretary-TreasurerLouisiana State University(225) 578-9206 [email protected]

American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine

8301 E Prentice Ave, Suite 300Greenwood Village, CO 80111(800) 245-9081(303) 231-9933Fax: (303) [email protected]

American College of Veterinary Surgeons19785 Crystal Rock Dr, Suite 305Germantown, MD 20874(877) 217-2287(301) 916-0200Fax: (301) [email protected]

American Veterinary Medical Association1931 N Meacham Rd, Suite 100Schaumburg, IL 60173-4360(800) 248-2862Fax: (847) 925-1329www.avma.org

AVMA Government Relations Division1910 Sunderland Pl NWWashington, DC 20036-1642(800) 321-1473Fax: (202) 223-4877

Canadian Veterinary Medical Association339 Booth StOttawa, ON K1R 7K1Canada(613) 236-1162Fax: (613) [email protected] www.canadianveterinarians.net

World Equine Veterinary Associationc/o Warwick Bayly Washington State UniversityPO Box 646610Pullman, WA 99164-6610 (509) 335-5616 Fax: (509) 335-0880 [email protected] www.wevaonline.org

World Veterinary AssociationAvenue de Tervueren, 12B1040 BrusselsBelgiumPhone: (32) [email protected] www.worldvet.org

RESEARCH AND HEALTH ORGANIZATIONS

American Farriers Association4059 Iron Works Pkwy, Suite 1Lexington, KY 40511(859) 233-7411Fax: (859) [email protected]

American Quarter Horse Foundation1600 Quarter Horse DrAmarillo, TX 79104(806) 378-5029Fax: (806) 376-1005www.aqha.com/foundation

Animal Poison Control Center(888) 426-4435 www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control(A consultation fee may apply.)

Center for Equine Health – UC-DavisOne Shields AveDavis, CA 95616-8589 (530) 752-6433Fax: (530) [email protected] https://ceh.vetmed.ucdavis.edu

Equine Disease Communication Center4033 Iron Works PkwyLexington, KY 40511(859) 233-0147Fax: (859) [email protected]

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation, Inc.

821 Corporate Dr Lexington, KY 40503(859) 224-2850Fax: (859) 224-2853contactus@grayson-jockeyclub.orgwww.grayson-jockeyclub.org

Maxwell H. Gluck Equine Research Center 1400 Nicholasville RdLexington, KY 40546-0099(859) 257-4757Fax: (859) 257-8542https://gluck.ca.uky.edu

Morris Animal Foundation720 S Colorado Blvd, Suite 174ADenver, CO 80246(303) 790-2345(800) 243-2345Fax: (303) 790-4066www.morrisanimalfoundation.org

BREED ORGANIZATIONS

American Donkey and Mule Society, Inc. PO Box 1210Lewisville, TX 75067-1210(972) [email protected]

American Hackney Horse Society4059 Iron Works Pkwy, A-3Lexington, KY 40511-8462(859) 255-8694Fax: (859) [email protected]

American Hanoverian Society4067 Iron Works Pkwy, Suite 1Lexington, KY 40511(859) 255-4141Fax: (859) [email protected]

American Miniature Horse Association5601 S Interstate 35W Alvarado, TX 76009(817) 783-5600Fax: (817) [email protected] www.amha.org

American Morgan Horse Association4037 Iron Works Pkwy, Suite 130Lexington, KY 40511(802) 985-4944Fax: (859) [email protected]

American Mustang and Burro AssociationPO Box 27703Salt Lake City, UT 84127-0703www.ambainc.net

American Paint Horse AssociationPO Box 961023Fort Worth, TX 76161-0023(817) 834-2742Fax: (817) [email protected]

12 AAEP

American Quarter Horse Association1600 Quarter Horse DrAmarillo, TX 79104(806) 376-4811Fax: (806) 349-6411www.aqha.com

American Saddlebred Horse Association4083 Iron Works PkwyLexington, KY 40511(859) 259-2742Fax: (859) [email protected]

American Warmblood Society & Sporthorse Registry

PO Box 38Berger, MO 63014(314) [email protected]

Appaloosa Horse Club2720 W Pullman RdMoscow, ID 83843(208) 882-5578Fax: (208) 882-8150www.appaloosa.com

Arabian Horse Association10805 E Bethany DrAurora, CO 80014(303) 696-4500Fax: (303) 696-4599www.arabianhorses.org

Friesian Horse Association of North America4037 Iron Works Pkwy, Suite 160Lexington, KY 40511-8483(859) 455-7430Fax: (859) [email protected]

Palomino Horse Association10171 Nectar Ave Nelson, MO 65347(660) [email protected]

Percheron Horse Association of America PO Box 14116402 Village PkwyFredericktown, OH 43019(740) 694-3602Fax: (740) [email protected]

Pinto Horse Association of America, Inc.7330 NW 23rd StBethany, OK 73008(405) 491-0111 Fax: (405) 787-0773www.pinto.org

National Walking Horse AssociationPO Box 7111Jacksonville, NC 28540(859) 252-6942Fax: (859) [email protected]

Racking Horse Breeders’ Association of America

67 Horse Center Rd, Suite BDecatur, AL 35603(256) 353-7225Fax: (256) [email protected]

Tennessee Walking Horse Breeders’ and Exhibitors’ Association

PO Box 286Lewisburg, TN 37091(931) 359-1574Fax: (931) 288-6135 [email protected]

Welsh Pony and Cob Society of America, Inc. 720 Green StStephens City, VA 22655(540) [email protected]

SHOW AND SPORT ORGANIZATIONS(More than 500 sanctioned events.)

Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI)HM King Hussein I BuildingChemin de la Joliette 81006 Lausanne Switzerland (41) 213104747Fax: (41) 213104760www.fei.org

International Professional Rodeo AssociationPO Box 83377Oklahoma City, OK 73148(405) 235-6540Fax: (405) [email protected]

National Barrel Horse AssociationPO Box 1988Augusta, GA 30901(706) 722-7223Fax: (706) [email protected]

National Cutting Horse Association260 Bailey Ave Fort Worth, TX 76107-1862(817) 244-6188 Fax: (817) 244-2015www.nchacutting.com

National High School Rodeo Association12011 Tejon St, Suite 900Denver, CO 80234(303) 452-0820Fax: (303) 452-0912www.nhsra.com

National Intercollegiate Rodeo Association2033 Walla Walla Ave Walla Walla, WA 99362(509) 529-4402Fax: (509) [email protected]

National Show Horse Registry2242 Polo Park DrDayton, OH 45439(937) 962-4336Fax: (937) [email protected]

Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association101 Pro Rodeo DrColorado Springs, CO 80919-2301(719) 593-8840Fax: (719) 548-4889www.prorodeo.com

United States Equestrian Federation, Inc.4001 Wing Commander WayLexington, KY 40511(859) 258-2472Fax: (859) [email protected]

United States Polo Association9011 Lake Worth RdLake Worth, FL 33467(800) 232-8772www.uspolo.org

United States Pony Clubs, Inc.4041 Iron Works PkwyLexington, KY 40511(859) 254-7669Fax: (859) [email protected]



RACING ORGANIZATIONS

Association of Racing Commissioners International

2365 Harrodsburg Rd, Suite B-450Lexington, KY 40504(859) [email protected]

Breeders’ Cup Limited 215 W Main St, Suite 250Lexington, KY 40507(859) 223-5444Fax: (859) 223-3945New York Office40 E 52nd St, 15th FloorNew York, NY 10022(212) 230-9500Fax: (212) 752-3039www.breederscup.com

Harness Tracks of America, Inc.12025 E Dry Gulch PlTucson, AZ 85749(520) [email protected] www.harnesstracks.com

The Jockey Club40 E 52nd StNew York, NY 10022(212) 371-5970Fax: (212) 371-6123Registry 821 Corporate DrLexington, KY 40503-2794(859) 224-2700Fax: (859) 224-2710www.jockeyclub.com

National Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, Inc.

3380 Paris PikeLexington, KY 40511(859) 259-0451(866) 245-1711Fax: (859) [email protected] www.hbpa.org

National Thoroughbred Racing Association401 W Main St, Suite 222Lexington, KY 40507(800) 792-6872 (859) 245-6872Fax: (859) [email protected]

Racing Medication and Testing Consortium401 W Main St, Suite 222Lexington, KY 40507(859) [email protected]

Thoroughbred Owners and Breeders AssociationPO Box 910668 Lexington, KY 40591-0668(859) [email protected]

United States Trotting Association6130 S Sunbury RdWesterville, OH 43081-9309(877) 800-8782(614) 224-2291Fax: (844) 229-1338www.ustrotting.com

RELATED ORGANIZATIONS AND RESOURCES

American Horse Council1616 H St NW, 7th FloorWashington, DC 20006(202) 296-4031Fax: (202) [email protected] www.horsecouncil.org

American Endurance Ride ConferencePO Box 6027Auburn, CA 95604 (866) 271-2372(530) 823-2260Fax: (530) [email protected]

American Youth Horse Council, Inc.1 Gainer RdMcDonald, NM 88262(817) [email protected]

North American Compendiums, Inc.PO Box 39Hensall, ON N0M 1X0Canada(519) 263-3000Fax: (519) 263-2936 https://naccvp.com

North American Trail Ride ConferencePO Box 969Beatrice, NE 68310(402) [email protected] www.natrc.org

Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH)

PO Box 33150 Denver, CO 80233(800) 369-7433(303) 452-1212Fax: (303) [email protected]

United States Cavalry Association3220 N Jesse Reno StEl Reno, OK 73036(405) [email protected] www.uscavalry.org

GOVERNMENT INFORMATION SOURCES

United States Department of Agriculture 4700 River Rd, Unit 84Riverdale, MD 20737-1234(301) 851-3751Fax: (301) [email protected] www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/home

United States Food and Drug AdministrationCenter for Veterinary Medicine7500 Standish PlRockville, MD 20855(888) 463-6332(240) 402-7002www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary

United States House of RepresentativesThe Honorable (Representative)U.S. House of RepresentativesWashington, DC 20515(202) 224-3121www.house.govwww.senate.gov

The White House1600 Pennsylvania AveWashington, DC 20500(202) 456-1414Bill signing or veto: (202) 456-2226www.whitehouse.gov

Veterinary Adverse Event Voluntary ReportingAnimal drugs and devices: Call the Center for Veterinary Medicine at (888) 332-8387

Animal biologics (vaccines, bacterins and diagnostic kits): Call the USDA at (800) 752-6255Topically applied external parasiticides: Call the U.S. EPA at (800) 858-7378


14 AAEP

University of ArizonaAdvisor: Dr. Gayle LeithCollege of Veterinary Medicine1580 E Hanley BlvdOro Valley, AZ 85737 (520) [email protected]://vetmed.arizona.edu

Auburn UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Alfredo Sanchez and Dr. Jennifer Taintor217 Veterinary Education CenterAuburn University, AL 36849(334) 844-4490 [email protected]@auburn.eduwww.vetmed.auburn.edu

University of CalgaryAdvisor: Dr. Ashley Whitehead3280 Hospital Dr NWCalgary, Alberta, T2N 4Z6Canada(403) [email protected]

University of California-Davis Advisor: Dr. Julie DechantSchool of Veterinary MedicineEquine Medicine ClubOne Shields AveDavis, CA 95616(530) 752-1360 [email protected] www.vetmed.ucdavis.edu

Colorado State UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Jennifer Hatzel and Dr. Katie SeabaughCollege of Veterinary Medicine300 W Drake RdFort Collins, Colorado, 80523(970) 297-5000 (970) 297-0315 [email protected]@yahoo.comwww.cvmbs.colostate.edu

Cornell UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Gillian PerkinsCollege of Veterinary Medicine602 Tower RdIthaca, NY 14853-6401(607) [email protected] www.vet.cornell.edu

University of FloridaAdvisors: Dr. Martha Mallicote andDr. Taralynn McCarrelCollege of Veterinary MedicinePO Box 1001362015 SW 16th AveGainesville, FL 32608-0136(352) [email protected]@ufl.eduwww.vetmed.ufl.edu

University of GeorgiaAdvisor: Dr. Erin BeasleyCollege of Veterinary Medicine2200 College Station RdAthens, GA 30602-7371(706) 542-3461 [email protected]

University of GuelphAdvisor: Dr. Luis ArroyoOntario Veterinary College50 Stone RdGuelph, ON N1G 2W1Canada(519) 824-4120 ext. 54259 [email protected] www.ovc.uoguelph.ca

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Advisor: Dr. Scott AustinCollege of Veterinary Medicine3505 Veterinary Medicine Basic Sciences Building 2001 S Lincoln Ave Urbana, IL 61802 (217) 333-2760 [email protected] www.cvm.uiuc.edu

Iowa State UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Stephanie Caston and Dr. Kevin KershCollege of Veterinary Medicine1800 Christensen DrAmes, Iowa 50011(515) [email protected]@iastate.eduhttps://vetmed.iastate.edu

Kansas State UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Chris Blevins and Dr. Katie DelphCollege of Veterinary Medicine101 Trotter HallManhattan, KS 66506(785) 532-5660 [email protected] [email protected] www.vet.ksu.edu

Lincoln Memorial UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Undine Christmann and Dr. Rebecca PierceCollege of Veterinary Medicine 6965 Cumberland Gap Pkwy Harrogate, TN 37752 (423) 869-6008 [email protected] [email protected] https://vetmed.lmunet.edu

Long Island UniversityAdvisor: Dr. James RobinsonCollege of Veterinary Medicine720 Northern BlvdBrookville, NY 11548(516) [email protected]/vetmed

Louisiana State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Laura RiggsSchool of Veterinary Medicine1909 Skip Bertman DrBaton Rouge, LA 70803(225) [email protected]

Michigan State UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Melissa Esser and Dr. Julie Rapson StrachotaCollege of Veterinary MedicineVeterinary Medical Center736 Wilson Rd, Room A116East Lansing, MI 48824(517) [email protected]@msu.eduwww.cvm.msu.edu

Midwestern UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Margaret BrosnahanCollege of Veterinary Medicine 19555 N 59th AveGlendale, AZ 85308(623) [email protected]

University of MinnesotaAdvisor: Dr. Christie WardCollege of Veterinary Medicine1365 Gortner AveSt. Paul, MN 55108(612) [email protected] www.cvm.umn.edu

Mississippi State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. David ChristiansenCollege of Veterinary MedicinePO Box 6100240 Wise Center DrMississippi State, MS 39762(662) [email protected]

University of MissouriAdvisors: Dr. David Cross andDr. Alison LaCarrubbaCollege of Veterinary Medicine900 E Campus Dr Columbia, MO 65211(573) 882-3513(573) [email protected]@missouri.eduwww.cvm.missouri.edu

AAEP STUDENT CHAPTERScolleges of veterinary medicine with


University of MontrealAdvisor: Dr. Ignacio RaggoioFaculty of Veterinary MedicineCP 5000Saint Hyacinthe, PQ J2S 7C6Canada(450) [email protected]

North Carolina State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Callie FogleCollege of Veterinary Medicine1052 William Moore DrRaleigh, NC 27607(919) [email protected]

The Ohio State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Matthew BrokkenCollege of Veterinary Medicine1900 Coffey RdColumbus, OH 43210(614) 292-1171 [email protected]

Oklahoma State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Megan WilliamsCollege of Veterinary MedicineCenter for Veterinary Health Sciences2065 W Farm RdStillwater, OK 74078(405) [email protected]

Oregon State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Michael HuberCollege of Veterinary MedicineRoom 107C, Magruder Hall700 SW 30th StCorvallis, OR 97331(541) 737-6947 [email protected] https://vetmed.oregonstate.edu

University of PennsylvaniaAdvisor: Dr. Liz ArbittierClinical Studies-New Bolton Center382 W Street RdKennett Square, PA 19348(610) [email protected] www.vet.upenn.edu

University of Prince Edward IslandAdvisors: Dr. Kathleen MacMillan and Dr. Tammy MuirheadAtlantic Veterinary College550 University AveCharlottetown, PE C1A 4P3Canada(902) 566-0882 [email protected]@upei.cawww.upei.ca/avc

Purdue UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Timothy LescunCollege of Veterinary Medicine625 Harrison St West Lafayette, IN 47907-1240(765) [email protected]

Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine

Advisor: Dr. Erik PetersonPO Box 334 Basseterre, St. Kitts, West Indies(869) 465-4161 ext. [email protected]

University of SaskatchewanWestern College of Veterinary MedicineAdvisor: Dr. Stephen Manning52 Campus DrSaskatoon, SK S7N 5B4Canada (306) [email protected] www.usask.ca/wcvm

St. George’s UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Heidi Janicke and Dr. Inga KarasekTrue Blue, St. GeorgeGrenada, West Indies(473) 444-4175 ext. 3829 [email protected] [email protected] www.sgu.edu

University of TennesseeAdvisor: Dr. Steve Adair College of Veterinary Medicine2407 River DrKnoxville, TN 37996-4550(865) 974-7262 [email protected]

Texas A&M UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Jeffrey Watkins and Dr. Canaan WhitfieldCollege of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical SciencesSuite 101-VMACollege Station, TX 77843-4461(979) [email protected]@cvm.tamu.eduwww.cvm.tamu.edu

Tufts UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Wade TenneyCummings School of Veterinary Medicine 200 Westboro RdNorth Grafton, MA 01536(508) 839-7926 [email protected]/vet

Tuskegee UniversityAdvisors: Dr. Courtney Allred and Dr. Alberto ParraSchool of Veterinary Medicine1200 W Montgomery RdTuskegee, AL 36088(334) [email protected]@tuskegee.eduwww.tuskegee.edu

Utah State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Holly MasonSchool of Veterinary Medicine4815 Old Main HillLogan, UT 84322-4815(435) [email protected]

Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine

Advisor: Dr. Sophie Bogers205 Duck Pond Rd Blacksburg, Virginia 24061(540) [email protected]

Washington State UniversityAdvisor: Dr. Macarena SanzCollege of Veterinary MedicinePO Box 647010Pullman, WA 99164-7010(509) [email protected] www.vetmed.wsu.edu

Western University of Health SciencesAdvisor: Dr. Joe Bertone College of Veterinary Medicine309 E Second St Pomona, CA 91766-1854(909) [email protected]/veterinary

University of Wisconsin-MadisonAdvisor: Dr. Diego De GasperiSchool of Veterinary Medicine2015 Linden Dr Madison, WI 53706-1102(608) [email protected] www.vetmed.wisc.edu

AAEP STUDENT ChAPTERS

16 AAEP

regulation and legislative advocacy resources

The AAEP is committed to serving as a leading force and advocate for veterinary and equine-related issues affecting federal legislation. However, in recent years, AAEP members have been most affected by local and state legislation.

The AAEP aims to serve its membership by providing necessary resources and information about policy issues affecting veterinary medicine at all levels of government. The AAEP has established rela-tionships with two national organizations, the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and American Horse Council (AHC), to provide further information and resources to assist AAEP mem-bers with both state and national issues. Both the AVMA and AHC have offices in Washington, D.C.

How We Can Help YouThe AAEP can assist you or your state association with any of the following issues:

In addition to providing you with resources, the AAEP can connect you or your local, state or national organization with your legislators, affiliate organizations and related stakeholders.

How You Can Help UsKeeping track of the numerous policy issues at the local and state level can be difficult. If you are involved within your state veteri-nary association, you are more likely to be informed on a timely basis about issues within your state legislature or regulatory agencies that involve equine veterinary medicine. Contact the AAEP office to keep us informed about important policies affecting veterinarians and horses in your area.

Learn MoreTo learn more about how the AAEP can help with your advocacy efforts, please visit aaep.org and enter the search word “advocacy”; or contact Keith Kleine, staff liaison to the AAEP Welfare and Public Policy Advisory Council, at (859) 233-0147 or [email protected].

AVMA Representation 2021

Following is a list of AAEP-member representatives serving in volunteer leadership positions within the AVMA. AVMA Committee positions are appointed by the AVMA Executive Board, and these individuals were nominated by the AAEP. AVMA council positions are elected by the AVMA House of Delegates, and members serving in these positions were either sponsored or co-sponsored by the AAEP.

Animal Abuse and NeglectAnimal IdentificationAlternative and

Complementary TherapiesCastrationCompounding

Emergency Preparedness and Response

Equine WelfareEquine DentistryEquine ReproductionEuthanasia

COUNCIL/COMMITTEE SECTION REPRESENTATIVE TERM

AAEP Representatives to the AVMA AAEP Stuart E. Brown II, Delegate 2018-2022 House of Delegates Margo Macpherson (alternate) 2018-2022

AVMA Executive Board Liaison to AAEP AAEP Lori Teller 2021-2022

PLIT-Board of Trustees At Large Stuart E. Brown II 2018-2022

Animal Welfare Committee AAEP (Private Equine) Clara Mason 2021-2024 Clinical Practice Nora Grenager (alternate) 2021-2024

Council on Biologic & Therapeutic Agents Private Clinical Practice Steven Dow 2020-2023 Predominately Equine

Legislative Advisory Committee AAEP James Zeliff 2021-2024 Brad Tanner (alternate) 2021-2024

Clinical Practitioners Advisory Committee AAEP Fairfield Bain 2019-2022 Jim Hamilton (alternate) 2019-2022

Committee on Antimicrobials AAEP Mark G. Papich 2020-2023 AAEP Lauren Schnabel (alternate) 2020-2023

Council on Education Private Clinical Practice Ann Dwyer 2019-2024

Council on Veterinary Service Private Practice Barbara Crabbe 2020-2023 Predominantly Equine

Veterinary Economics Strategy Committee At Large Amy Grice 2021-2024

Horse SlaughterRegulation of Veterinary

Medicine

Horse SoringTransport of HorsesUrban Horse Use


A m e r i c a n A s s o c i a t i o n o f E q u i n e P r a c t i t i o n e r s

ETHICAL AND PROFESSIONAL GUIDELINES

Position Statement Protocol The AAEP recognizes it is often a major source of information or

expertise regarding the practice techniques, ethics and client relations of the equine veterinarian, as well as in defining humane and ethical treatment of horses. Therefore, the following protocol will be used in the development or adoption of a position statement by AAEP.

• Issues or areas of concern must be introduced in writing for con-sideration by the board. A concise, complete background of the situation, current status and anticipated outcome must be provided. A length of no more than one page is preferred.

• A notice announcing the board’s discussion of the proposed posi-tion may appear in either Equine Veterinary Education or Spur, AAEP’s electronic newsletter. If the board notifies the membership using one of these methods, members will be given an opportunity to comment at least 30 days prior to consideration by the board. No public comment will be allowed during the board meeting, but written comment may be provided for review by the board and must be received at least 30 days prior to the board meeting.

• If it is determined that on-site inspection is required in order to develop a statement, AAEP will conduct the inspection at its own expense.

• No position statement may be used as an endorsement or approval of any particular breed, sport, discipline or any other use of the horse, nor as an endorsement or approval of any pharmaceutical brand or instrument, and must specifically address the actual management, care or use of the horse in a specific activity or treatment regimen.

As a matter of policy, the AAEP does not provide endorsements of continuing education programs developed and conducted by other organizations or individuals. Furthermore, the AAEP logo and name can only be used in a co-branding situation where the AAEP has influence or direct involvement with the scientific program content or meeting and only after having undergone review by AAEP.

• Position statements must be first reviewed and approved by the appropriate committee, prior to review and approval by a quorum of the board.

Opinions, not position statements, may be rendered by the board in an emergency situation. These will not become policy statements unless the above protocol is met.

Revised by AAEP board of directors in 2010.

Logo Use Policy Members are both welcomed and encouraged to use the mem-

ber version of the AAEP logo on their websites, practice stationery, vehicles, etc. to indicate membership in the AAEP. The AAEP logo, however, should not be used in conjunction or connection with any commercial product as such use may improperly appear to be an endorsement of the product on the part of the association.

The member version of the AAEP logo can be downloaded from aaep.org. Approved by AAEP board of directors in 2012.

AAEP position statements are created to establish AAEP policy, which serve as guidelines for the practitioner and the equine indus-try. As such, they do not have the force of law. All position statements issued by the AAEP should be regarded as one of several tools that a practitioner may take into consideration in the context of his or her practice. All practitioners are encouraged first and foremost to understand and comply with the laws, regulations and standard of care of their appropriate jurisdiction. While position statements are intended to set a standard for veterinary practice, lack of adherence to any specific AAEP position statement does not constitute grounds for disciplinary action. The AAEP can exercise disciplinary action only in connection with its own members and its action is limited to denial of membership in the AAEP. The AAEP shall have no liability whatsoever for any position statement.

A subcommittee of the AAEP board reviews all of the AAEP guidelines and position statements every five years. Any proposed revisions are approved by a vote of the full board.

Note: Prior to 2014, the AAEP’s Ethical and Professional Guidelines included several policies from the American Veterinary Medical Association, specifically: AVMA Principles of Veterinary Medical Ethics; AVMA Guidelines for Complementary and Alternative Veterinary Medicine; AVMA Animal Abuse and Animal Neglect; AVMA Animals Used in Entertainment, Shows, and for Exhibition; AVMA Humane Transport of Equines; and AVMA Certificates of Veterinary Inspection. To view these and other AVMA policies, please visit https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies.

18 AAEP

Policy on Transparency, Open Records, and Board Meeting Attendance

The AAEP is committed to transparency with its members and is happy to make available any association records or documents that any member would like to view, with a few exceptions. Board min-utes, committee meeting records, or other similar documents are avail-able to members by requesting them of the executive director with a stated purpose or intent for such access. Copies will be provided by hard copy format and via mail or fax. These will be provided at no cost to the member unless the request results in an extreme amount of paper, postage or staff costs to assemble and provide. Personnel records or other business contracts would not be appropriate to share as they could have legal implications since they involve other par-ties. If members have any questions or concerns about documents or records of this nature, they are encouraged to contact the President or Executive Director.

Additionally, AAEP board meetings are open to any member in good standing who would like to attend, provided notice to attend is requested of the executive director at least two days prior to the meet-ing. Prior notice ensures that the appropriate planning can be made and board materials prepared for any visitors in attendance. There may be portions of the meeting conducted in “executive session,” at which point visitors will need to be temporarily excused. Anyone wishing to attend an AAEP board meeting will be asked to sign a confidentiality agreement.

Approved by AAEP board of directors in 2017.

Ethical and Professional Guidelines

Standards of ProfessionProfessional ethics embodies the behaviors of honesty, integrity and

kindness while obeying rules and regulations set forth with mutual respect for opinion and preservation of dignity in interpersonal rela-tionships. The conduct should be in a manner that will enhance the worthiness of the profession. The ethical practice of medicine includes those remedies and treatments that have, as their short or long-term goal, the health and welfare of the horse.

All members of the AAEP are expected to comply with (a) the code of Ethics of the AAEP (or counterpart in foreign countries); (b) the Bylaws and procedures of their enforcement; (c) the code of Ethics of the veterinary medical association of the state or province in which licensed; (d) all rules and regulations of racing applicable at race tracks where practicing; (e) rules of organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and the rules of all breed registries in relation to veterinary practices; and (f) all other laws of the land. Members and Veterinarians should be honest and fair in their rela-tions with others, and they should not engage in fraud, misrepresenta-tion or deceit. Violation of any of the foregoing may constitute cause for revocation or denial of membership in the AAEP.

Organizations and regulatory agencies within the industry notify the AAEP of violations (committed by an AAEP member) within their respective jurisdictions. Additionally, there is a process for members to file complaints against other members. Each case involving an AAEP member is reviewed by the AAEP Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee for disciplinary consideration and a recommenda-tion is forwarded to the board of directors for final action. It should be noted that AAEP can exercise disciplinary action only in connec-tion with its own members.

Reviewed by AAEP board of directors in 2010.

Compliance with OfficialsMembers of AAEP will be guided and abide by all legally estab-

lished rules developed by the states, provinces and organizations under whose jurisdictions they practice. The rules and regulations of the local jurisdiction supersede all other guidelines if they do not contradict state statutes.

Competitions should be governed by rules established within the industry regarding therapeutic administration of medications and all matters pertaining to the health and well-being of the competi-tive horse. The use of stimulant, depressant, narcotic, tranquilizer, local anesthetic or any substance that affects normal performance of the horse should be prohibited.


AAEP Statement on Genetic Defects Introduction and Definitions

A. Congenital Defects: Congenital defects include all undesirable traits and pathologic conditions present at birth whether they are genetic or due to intra-uterine events that results from extra-uterine influences. Congenital defects do not necessarily indicate inheritance; they simply indicate that the defect was present at birth.

B. Inherited Tendencies: There are characteristics in horses that are influenced by a wide variety of genes, whose pattern of inheri-tance is complex and whose expression has strong environmental influences. Horses have been selectively bred for centuries to promote or discourage these characteristics. The selection for or against these inherited tendencies is the basis for our current breed registries. Size, power, color, speed, conformation and many other characteristics that are genetically influenced are selected for or against by certain breed registries. Variations from ideal may be undesirable but they are not deemed to be genetic defects.

C. Genetic Defects: Genetic defects are pathologic conditions of proven genetic origin. These may be the result of a mutation in a gene of major effect or mutations in multiple genes (polygenic) whose effects combine to produce a deleterious or undesirable result. The degree to which some traits are expressed in horses carrying particular mutations can be influenced by environmen-tal factors. This is called incomplete penetrance.

D. Undesirable Traits: An undesirable trait, as designated by certain breed registries, is a condition or behavior which may or may not be present at birth, may develop over time, may or may not be a genetic defect, but precludes registration of that animal. A variation in color is an example of a characteristic that may be considered by a breed to be undesirable. Concealment of such undesirable traits by any means, including surgery, is prohibited by breed registry. It is therefore unethical for a veterinarian to perform such treatments, except when the treatment is intended to improve the health of the horse, and when the veterinarian reports the treatment to the breed registry.

Genetic Tests Available for HorsesAs of February 2012, tests for mutations in single genes are

currently available for 12 diseases.

EThICAL AND PROFESSIONAL GUIDELINES


Autosomal DominantHyperkalemic Periodic Paralysis (HYPP) in the Quarter HorseType 1 Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy (PSSM) in numerous breeds Malignant Hyperthermia (MH) in Quarter Horse related breeds

Autosomal RecessiveOvero Lethal White Syndrome (OLWS) in the Paint Horse Severe Combined immunodeficiency (SCID) in Arabian Horses Glycogen Branching Enzyme Deficiency (GBED) in Quarter

Horse related breedsJunctional Epidermolysis Bullosa (JEB) in Belgians JEB in Saddlebred horses Hereditary Equine Regional Dermal Asthenia (HERDA) in

Quarter Horse-related breedsLavender Foal Syndrome in ArabiansCerebellar Abiotrophy (CA) in ArabiansFell Pony Syndrome

New information in equine genetics is being generated very quickly and this list will be updated as it becomes available.

Surgical Correction of Undesirable Traits and Genetic Defects

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, sur-gical correction of “genetic defects” for the purposes of concealing the defect is unethical. If surgical correction is undertaken for the purpose of improving the health of the individual, then it should be accompanied by sterilization to prevent the perpetuation of the genetic defect. The AAEP agrees with the intent of this position. Further, surgical correction of any characteristic specifically named by the breed organization as being prohibited, for the purpose of concealing the characteristic for obtaining registration, would be considered fraudulent and unethical. Such procedures offer no benefit to the horse and are intended only to deceive the breed orga-nization. The AAEP does support surgical correction of conditions that are in the best interest of individual horses.

Identification of Genetic TraitsAAEP supports the use of genetic testing by veterinarians or breed

associations to identify genetic mutations in animals so that owners can make informed decisions about breeding, purchase and specific treatments. Breed associations should be contacted to determine if there are any restrictions on registration of horses with genetic defects. Licensed laboratories should be used for genetic testing.

More information on equine genetic diseases is available at these websites:

https://www.vdl.umn.eduhttps://www.cvm.msu.edu/research/faculty-research/

valberg-laboratoryhttps://getgluck.ca.uky.eduhttps://www.vetsci.ca.uky.edu


Equine Welfare

AAEP Principles of Equine Welfare As a voice for equids on issues affecting their well-being, the

AAEP believes:

1. The responsible use of animals for human purposes, such as companionship, food, fiber, recreation, work, education, exhibi-tion, and research conducted for the benefit of both humans and animals, is consistent with the Veterinarian’s Oath.¹

2. Equids must be provided water, food, proper handling, health care and an environment appropriate to their use, with thoughtful con-sideration for their species-typical biology and behavior.¹

3. Equids should be cared for in ways that minimize fear, pain, stress and suffering.¹

4. Equids should be provided with protection from injurious heat or cold and harmful adverse weather conditions.

5. Equids used in competition, spectator events, shows, exhibitions, motion pictures and television should not be subjected to the fraudulent use of drugs, non-nutritive agents, equipment or proce-dures intended to alter performance, conformation or appearance.²

6. Events and activities involving equids should continually strive to put the horse first above all other interests.

7. Equine industry organizations should identify areas where equids are being subjected to adverse procedures or training methods and work to eliminate any inhumane acts.

8. Equids should be transported in a manner which minimizes the potential for infirmity, illness, injury, fatigue or other undue suffer-ing during the journey.

9. Equids shall be treated with respect and dignity throughout their lives and, when necessary and at the appropriate time, be provided a humane death.¹

10. The veterinary profession shall continually strive to improve equine health and welfare through scientific research, education, collabora-tion, advocacy and the proposal or support of appropriate legisla-tion and regulations that promote the humane existence of equids.¹

¹Adapted from AVMA Animal Welfare Principles, 2006.²Adapted from AVMA Policy on Animals Used In Entertainment, Shows,

and for Exhibition, 2007. Revised by AAEP board of directors in 2016.

Position on Equids Used in Entertainment, Shows and for Exhibition

The AAEP supports the humane and ethical use of equids in spectator events, competitions, exhibitions, and entertainment in accordance with existing federal, state and local animal protection laws. Examples include but are not limited to racing, horse shows, polo, rodeo, and audiovisual media such as movies and television. The AAEP encourages all organizations and individuals involved in such events to develop and abide by stringent standardized rules, policies and procedures that ensure equids shall at all times be treated humanely and with dignity, respect and compassion. This should also include proper housing, transportation, nutrition, restraint, management oversight and veterinary care before, during and after use.

The AAEP opposes tripping, injuring or causing the death of horses, mules and donkeys for any entertainment purpose or during the training of such equids for any entertainment purpose and rec-ommends that all equine welfare guidelines or standards be adhered to. Similarly, the AAEP believes that equids used in competition,


20 AAEP

spectator events, shows, exhibitions, motion pictures and television should not be subjected to the fraudulent use of drugs, non-nutritive agents, equipment or procedures intended to alter performance, conformation, appearance or function.

The AAEP encourages quality, standardized drug testing to ensure equity, fairness and the appropriate use of therapeutic medications.

Certain events involving equids are prohibited in some jurisdictions. The organizers of any kind of competition, spectator event, show, exhi-bition, motion picture or television production should contact the local and state authorities prior to scheduling such an event to be sure they are acting in accordance with local laws and regulations.


Position on the Practice of Hemi-CastrationRemoval of a retained testicle, while leaving the descended testicle

within the scrotum and without permanent identification of the horse as a hemi-castrate, may expose that horse to unnecessary additional invasive surgical procedures. Subsequent efforts to locate and excise the previously removed retained testicle may require extensive abdom-inal exploration with increasing risk of post-operative complications. As it is in the best interest of the horse, the AAEP advocates the devel-opment of a permanent identification system of hemi-castrates that is acceptable to breed associations, owners and veterinarians.


Position on Stewardship of the HorseThe AAEP advocates respect for the dignity and the welfare of all

horses and recognizes their specialized needs. It is the responsibility of AAEP members to serve as stewards of the horse and to follow prac-tices that promote the health and welfare of the horse.

The AAEP champions and fosters: research towards understanding and reducing injuries and illnesses; education to inform and support owners, trainers, event organizers and veterinarians regarding preven-tive medicine, responsible training and the humane treatment of horses; modern and progressive horse care as insured by periodic examina-tion and disease prevention implemented by licensed veterinarians in partnership with horse owners, breeders and managers; and euthanasia when justified by thorough and expedient diagnostic procedures to end inhumane suffering.

Regarding the horse in competition, the American Association of Equine Practitioners advocates: ethical and humane conditions and handling which includes proper housing, transportation and nutrition in the training and care of the competitive horse; standardization of rules, policies and procedures for all equine events to insure maximum safety, health and welfare for all participants; and quality drug testing to assure equity and fairness regarding the regulation and use of appropri-ate therapeutic medications as they affect the competitive horse.


Position on Transportation and Processing of Horses

The AAEP advocates the humane treatment of all horses and believes the equine industry and horse owners have a responsibility to provide humane care throughout the life of the horse. However, a small per-centage of horses are ultimately unwanted because they are no longer serviceable, are infirm, dangerous, or their owners are no longer able to care for them.

The AAEP recognizes that the processing of unwanted horses is currently a necessary aspect of the equine industry, and provides a humane alternative to allowing the horse to continue a life of discom-fort and pain, and possibly inadequate care or abandonment. The AAEP encourages, fosters and provides education regarding responsible ownership and management that will reduce the number of unwanted horses. In addition, the AAEP supports and commends the efforts of equine retirement facilities and adoption groups.

Regarding the care of horses destined for processing, the AAEP’s position is that these horses should be:

• Treated humanely and with dignity; • Transported to the production facility in accordance with United

States Department of Agriculture regulations;• Euthanized in a humane manner in accordance with the guidelines

established by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

In addition, the AAEP recognizes that the human consumption of horsemeat is a cultural and personal issue and does not fall within the purview of the association, whose mission is to improve the health and welfare of the horse.


Position on the Management of MaresUtilized in the Pregnant Mare Urine (PMU) Collection Industry

Through on-site investigations and peer review of ongoing research, the AAEP believes the collection of urine from pregnant mares and care of their offspring as prescribed by the recommended “Code of Practice,” represents responsible management of horses to produce a commodity for the benefit of man. These practices should not result in abuse, neglect or inhumane treatment of horses.

The recommended Code of Practice is accessible at www.naeric.org/about.asp?strNav=5&.

In June 2014, the Equine Ranching Advisory Board developed a white paper on “Care and Oversight of Horses Managed for the Collection of Pregnant Mares’ Urine (PMU).” The AAEP acknowl-edges the thorough nature of this document and believes it is a good resource for parties interested in the management of PMU horses. Unlike the other white papers available on the AAEP website, this document was not created specifically by the AAEP; it was prepared by the Equine Ranching Advisory Board, many of whom are AAEP members. It was reviewed for inclusion on the AAEP website by the AAEP Welfare and Public Policy Advisory Council. The AAEP does not endorse or support any specific product or company referenced therein. You can read the paper at www.naeric.org/assets/pdf/PMU-WhitePaper.pdf.


Position on Management of Bureau of Land Management Wild Horses and Burros

The wild free-roaming horses and burros on lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in the Western United States are a unique population of animals protected by the 1971 Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burros Act (Public Law 92-195). This act and subsequent amendments provide for the necessary management, protection and control of these animals on public lands.



At present time, the number of wild horses and burros on the range is three times greater than the appropriate management level determined by the BLM. Historically, herd population numbers have increased at the rate of 15-20% per year. Overpopulation has created welfare risks such as starvation and dehydration due to scarce food and water supplies in some management areas. Current population control methods employed by the BLM, including the removal of excess horses from the range, adoption of gathered horses by private individuals, sex-ratio adjustments and contracep-tive vaccines, have not been successful in achieving manageable population numbers.

The AAEP and AVMA believes multiple strategies are necessary for the wild horse and burro population to reach the desired level that optimizes the health of the animals on the range, while reduc-ing welfare impacts caused by overpopulation in areas of limited resources.

The AAEP and AVMA endorses the humane management of the wild horse and burro population through a combination of the fol-lowing strategies:

A. Ongoing development and use of long-lasting, effective contracep-tives in herds where feasible.

B. Use of permanent sterilization methods such as spaying or cas-tration in selected herds where repeated capture or darting with contraceptive vaccines is not feasible. The AAEP and AVMA encourages research into other methods of permanent sterilization to prevent pregnancy.

C. Continued removal of animals from areas where the range cannot support a growing population because of the danger of starvation or dehydration or where the population numbers threaten limited rangeland resources and wildlife.

D. Continued development of new adoption and sales strategies for animals removed from the range. Strategies may include collabora-tion with private enterprises within the horse industry as well as public sector and non-governmental organizations so that the ani-mals may be utilized for recreation, companionship or placement in privately funded sanctuaries.

E. Unrestricted sale, which was incorporated into the Wild Free-Roaming Horses and Burro Act by amendment in the Omnibus Appropriations Act of 2005, should also be an available manage-ment strategy for horses in holding that are over the age of 10 years or have been offered for adoption unsuccessfully three times.

Additionally, the AAEP and AVMA supports the BLM’s existing policy that allows for the humane euthanasia of wild horses and burros for reasons related to health and welfare, including animals that are seriously ill or injured with a poor prognosis for improve-ment; irreversibly lame; starved with a poor prognosis for recovery; or dangerous.

While safe and effective long-lasting contraceptive methods are under development, it will be years before they are fully tested and available. The AAEP and AVMA believes short-term and perma-nent sterilization methods combined with greater private-sale and adoption options will best serve the Bureau of Land Management’s mission to protect the health and welfare of wild horses and burros.

Resource: American Veterinary Medical Association. AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia. Available at: https://www.avma.org/KB/Policies/Documents/euthanasia.pdf.


Position on the Use of Horses in Urban Environments

The AAEP supports the humane and ethical use of horses in urban environments, such as mounted patrols, tourist carriages and taxi/limousine services, in accordance with federal, state and local animal protection laws. Research has shown that horses in urban settings adapt easily to their surroundings. Horses engaged in these activities require that special working and living conditions and precautions be taken for their safety and well-being. Urban envi-ronments present potential health and welfare hazards that may preclude their use, such as extremes of pollution, icy or otherwise slippery surfaces, climate and load.

Guidelines for the care of individual horses may vary by location. Horses should have access to fresh water and should be staged in areas which provide shelter from adverse weather conditions. The AAEP encourages research into the effects of climate on working horses in urban environments. This would avoid the tendency for setting arbitrary regulations that are based upon the effects of climate on horses in other equestrian activities that experience dif-ferent levels of work than horses working in urban environments. Provisions concerning work hours, workloads and living condi-tions, health care, feeding, management, standards of driver train-ing, and passenger safety should be prepared for each jurisdiction with the assistance of an equine veterinarian familiar with local conditions. The appropriate licensing standards with recommended minimum guidelines should be established and adhered to by local authorities and funding should be provided for re-inspection and renewal to confirm guidelines are being followed.

To ensure the health and welfare of horses in urban environ-ments, they should be examined at least annually by competent equine veterinarians familiar with local conditions, with regard to body condition, freedom from lameness and disease, and appro-priateness of living conditions and transport, with all findings recorded.

The equine veterinarian is the most qualified individual to man-age the health care needs of the horse. The owners and caregivers of horses working in urban settings should have a professional rela-tionship with a veterinary practice with equine expertise that can respond appropriately to all emergencies, including those in which humane euthanasia is required. In the absence of a veterinarian in such a situation, the AAEP acknowledges that it may be necessary for licensed, qualified animal control or trained law enforcement personnel to perform euthanasia using the established guidelines of the American Veterinary Medical Association. A veterinarian should be consulted, if possible, prior to euthanasia by a trained non-veterinarian. Educational programs should be developed for equine veterinarians to train law enforcement and animal control officers in horse handling, emergency assessment, and humane euthanasia.


Position on the Use of VesicantsThe AAEP does not support the use of vesicants in the management

of musculoskeletal disorders and finds no scientific evidence to validate their use in the horse.



22 AAEP

Position on the Practice of SoringThe AAEP condemns the practice of “soring,” as legally defined

in the Horse Protection Act of 1970 (HPA), to accentuate a horse’s gait for training or show purposes.

The AAEP supports the efforts of APHIS in the application and enforcement of the HPA as outlined in the APHIS Horse Protection Operating Plan and strongly recommends imposing sufficient sanc-tions to prevent these practices.

As legally defined in the HPA, “soring” refers to:

1. An irritating or blistering agent has been applied, internally or externally, by a person to any limb of a horse;

2. Any burn, cut or laceration has been inflicted by a person on any limb of a horse;

3. Any tack, nail, screw or chemical agent has been injected by a person or used by a person on any limb of a horse; or

4. Any other substance or device has been used by a person on any limb of a horse or a person has engaged in a practice involving a horse, and, as a result of such application, inflic-tion, injection, use or practice, such a horse suffers, or can reasonably be expected to suffer, physical pain or distress, inflammation or lameness when walking, trotting or other-wise moving, except that such term does not include such an application, infliction, injection, use or practice in connection with the therapeutic treatment of a horse by or under the supervision of a person licensed to practice veterinary medi-cine in the State in which such a treatment was given.

For additional information on this issue, please read the AAEP’s white paper “Putting the Horse First: Veterinary Recommendations for Ending the Soring of Tennessee Walking Horses” (2008), accessible at aaep.org/newsroom/whitepapers/old.


Position on Tail Alteration in HorsesThe AAEP condemns the alteration of the tail of the horse for

cosmetic or competitive purposes. This includes, but is not limited to, docking, nicking (i.e., cutting) and blocking. When performed for cosmetic purposes, these procedures do not contribute to the health or welfare of the horse and are primarily used for gain in the show ring (nicking/cutting, blocking and docking) or because of historical custom (docking). If a horse’s tail becomes injured or diseased and requires medical or surgical intervention such care should be provided by a licensed veterinarian.

The AAEP urges all breed associations and disciplines to establish and enforce guidelines to eliminate these practices and to edu-cate their membership on the horse health risks they may create. Members of the AAEP should educate their clients about the poten-tial health risks, welfare concerns, legal and/or regulatory ramifica-tions regarding these procedures based on the relevant jurisdiction and/or association rules.


Position on Thermocautery or Pin FiringWhen applied judiciously and in conjunction with appropriate

analgesia and aftercare, thermocautery or pin firing has been con-sidered an acceptable therapeutic modality for specific conditions in the horse. With the advent of current science-based procedures to treat specific musculoskeletal conditions in the horse, the AAEP no longer supports the use of thermocautery or pin firing.


Position on the Use of Hog RingsCribbing (also known as crib biting or windsucking) is one of

many repetitive behaviors known as stereotypies which are some-times demonstrated by horses. A variety of devices have been uti-lized to prevent horses from cribbing, including hog rings.

The AAEP opposes the use of hog rings placed around the maxillary incisors to prevent cribbing in horses. These devices are detrimental to the welfare of the horse due to the potential to cause persistent pain, damage to the gingiva, periodontal disease and abrasive wear to adjacent teeth. Hog rings should not be used as an anti-cribbing device.


Position on Equine ExerciseIn circumstances where horse owners are unable to regularly ride

or otherwise exercise their horses, caretakers may provide turnout opportunities for horses in a safe enclosure. If safe turnout space is not available, horses should be exercised to maintain physical health and mental wellbeing. Healthy horses should not be confined to a stall for extended periods of time without exercise. Horses owners and caretakers should consult with their regular veterinar-ian regarding minimum exercise programs for individual horses, dietary modifications to accompany decreased work, and later a safe return to fitness after an extended period of downtime.

Racehorses in a training and/or racing environment are predis-posed to health emergencies and perilous behavior if their exercise routine is abruptly suspended, posing significant risks to horses and handlers. Horses at racetracks and training centers should be allowed controlled exercise in an amount needed to maintain fit-ness, mental well-being and safety, while adhering to public health protocols that safeguard the welfare of those responsible for their care. Sport horses used in other types of equestrian competition have similar challenges and should be managed with the same con-siderations in mind.


Horse ShowHorse Show Official Veterinarian

The responsibilities of the official veterinarian for horse shows and other equestrian events are as follows:

• He or she shall serve as a professional consultant on veterinary matters to the show management, the stewards and the judges.

• He or she shall advise the management and cooperating persons and agencies about the health care of the horses present at the event and shall administer to them if the need arises.

• He or she shall do everything within his or her power and training to aid the sport in general and the event in par-ticular.

• He or she shall not assume or be expected to assume the role, responsibilities or privileges of the management, judges, stew-ards or other officials or agencies at the event.

• He or she shall not assume or be expected to assume a dual role in conjunction with that of Official Veterinarian.




Medication

Position on Endurance Horse MedicationsEndurance rides and competitive trail rides differ from racing in

that horses competing in these events are judged primarily on their endurance, physical fitness and ability to withstand the stress of sus-tained hard work on long trails. Speed and time are considerations, but not the determining factors.

AAEP policy recommends that the use of any medication in horses participating in competitive trail or endurance rides is prohibited. Medications for this purpose are defined as injectable, oral or topical administered substances other than oral electrolytes and vitamins.


Position on Therapeutic Medication for the Racehorse

The AAEP policy on medication in pari-mutuel racing is driven by our mission to improve the health and welfare of the horse. The AAEP policy is aimed at providing the best health care possible for the racehorses competing while ensuring the integrity of the sport.

The racetrack veterinarian should be directly involved in the diagnosis and treatment of soundness and health disorders; and must advocate with all stakeholders for professional and ethical practice at all times.

There is much consistency across racing jurisdictions with respect to therapeutic medication control and anti-doping regulations; however, some differences do exist. It is therefore essential that veterinarians providing care to the racehorse know and carefully follow the rules, especially as they concern the health and welfare of the horse. The AAEP expects its members to abide by the rules of all jurisdictions where they practice.

Medication usage for non-therapeutic purposes can put horse health at risk and deprives ethical stakeholders of fair competition. The AAEP condemns the administration of non-therapeutic or unprescribed medications to racehorses based on our belief that it is not in the interest of horse welfare and racing integrity. The AAEP believes that all therapeutic medication (prescription or otherwise) should be administered by or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian and based on a diagnosis. (View the ARCI Controlled Therapeutic Medication Schedule at www.arci.com/resources.) Health care decisions for individual horses should involve the vet-erinarian, the trainer and owner with the best interests of the horse as the primary objective.

In order to provide the best health care possible for the race-horse, veterinarians should utilize the most current diagnostic and therapeutic modalities available in accordance with medication guidelines designed to ensure the integrity of the sport. To this end, the following are the essential elements of AAEP policy concerning veterinary care for all horses in competition:

• The AAEP believes the welfare of the horse must be placed above the demands of competition and monetary or social gain.

• The AAEP strongly supports veterinary practitioner adher-ence to the ethical guidelines of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners.

• The AAEP recommends wherever possible to follow the principles of evidence-based medicine before proceeding with a treatment recommendation. The AAEP believes that treat-ment recommendations be based on a thorough knowledge of

the horse’s condition based on previous and current examina-tions as well as appropriate diagnostic testing.

• The AAEP recommends all medical procedures and treat-ments be performed in the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

• The AAEP recommends a detailed medical record be com-pleted for each examination, and all records should comply with the veterinary medical board requirements in the state where one practices.

• The AAEP recommends a horse’s history and medical records be shared between the horse’s primary veterinarian, consult-ing veterinarian, trainer and owners, as well as any veterinar-ian the owner chooses in order to provide a continuity of care.

Additionally, the following are AAEP guidelines specific to the sport of horse racing:

• The AAEP strongly recommends and advocates that all racing jurisdictions should adopt the national uniform medication program (NUMP) and penalty schedules as set forth by the Association of Racing Commissioners International (ARCI), including the Racing Medication and Testing Consortium’s oversight on laboratory performance and proficiency. These regulations and procedures strive to protect the integrity of racing as well as the health and welfare of the horse.

• The AAEP recommends abiding by the rules and regulations of the jurisdiction in which one practices, recognizing that some state regulations do not conform to the NUMP.

• The AAEP encourages proactive and constructive communi-cation between regulatory bodies and practicing veterinar-ians, as well as other industry stakeholders based on the premise that attending veterinarians should be unconditional advocates for the welfare and safety of horses and work closely with regulatory veterinarians to identify and protect horses that are at increased risk for injury.

• The AAEP endorses “rest” as an important component of a comprehensive health care program for racehorses and rec-ommends the integration of rest into therapeutic medication programs.

• The AAEP supports the judicious use of compounded medications in strict compliance with FDA regulations and in accordance with the AAEP’s compounding guidelines (acces-sible through https://aaep.org/guidelines/drug-compounding).

• The AAEP supports the communication of all medical and treatment history to the new trainer and owner of a horse claimed or purchased to ensure continuity of care.

• The AAEP supports a minimum interval of 14 days following an intra-articular injection to a horse’s next race, recognizing that differences in risk among varied racing disciplines may warrant consideration.

• The AAEP supports a 48-hour restricted administration time for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for rac-ing and breezing as well as the elimination of stacking (i.e. administration of two or more drugs of the same classifica-tion).

• The AAEP strongly endorses increased surveillance and out of competition testing to facilitate enforcement of the above-mentioned regulations.

• The AAEP currently supports the use of furosemide as a race-day medication to control exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) in the absence of a more effective treat-ment and/or management strategy for EIPH.


24 AAEP

• The AAEP recognizes the ongoing industry initiatives to phase out race-day administration of furosemide. Therefore, it is incumbent upon all racetrack veterinarians to develop an evidence-based comprehensive medical and stable man-agement plan to minimize the incidence and degree of EIPH commonly associated with high-speed exercise, consistent with the medication rules of the jurisdictions in which they practice. The AAEP strongly advocates for research and the development of new strategies including, but not limited to, training methods, nutritional management, genetics, and environmental modifications, to assist in improving respira-tory health and mitigating the effects of EIPH in training and racing horses.

• The AAEP strongly recommends continued research in determining guidelines for withdrawal intervals that allow for the responsible and ethical use of medication in training and racing horses. The AAEP is aware of the dynamics of the development of new products, as well as the continuing evaluation of current medications, and will continue to evalu-ate its policy based upon available scientific research and the best interests of the horse.


Position on Therapeutic Medication for the Competition Horse

The AAEP policy on medication in the competition horse is driven by our mission to improve the health and welfare of the horse. To this end, this policy is aimed at providing the best health care possible while ensuring the integrity of each discipline.

The majority of AAEP members work on horses competing in one of the many disciplines encompassing the activities of the sport horse. The veterinarian is typically directly involved in diagnosing and treating soundness and health issues. However, veterinarians may play a limited role in the area of medicating the horse at competitions because riders and trainers employ procedures and administer medications acquired from non-veterinary sources or from veterinarians at the horse show.

These disciplines are quite varied and are governed by sanc-tioning bodies with widely disparate rules and guidelines. It is, therefore, incumbent on the veterinarian providing care to the competition horse that they understand these rules and follow them carefully, especially as it concerns the health and wellbeing of the horse. Ultimately, in the interest of horse welfare, horses should compete on their own merits. Therefore, medications used for non-therapeutic purposes is a distortion of the spirit of competition.

The essential elements of AAEP policy concerning the veterinar-ians’ role regarding the horse in competition are as follows:

• The AAEP believes the welfare of the horse must be placed above the demands of competition and monetary or social gain.

• The AAEP strongly supports veterinary practitioner adher-ence to the ethical guidelines of the American Veterinary Medical Association and the American Association of Equine Practitioners.

• The AAEP recommends wherever possible to follow the principles of evidence-based medicine before proceeding with a treatment recommendation. The AAEP believes that treat-ment recommendations be based on a thorough knowledge of the horse’s condition based on previous and current examina-tions as well as appropriate diagnostic testing.

• The AAEP recommends all medical procedures and treat-ments be performed in the context of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship.

• The AAEP recommends a detailed medical record be com-pleted for each examination, and all records should comply with the veterinary medical board requirements in the state where one practices.

• The AAEP recommends a horse’s history and medical records be shared between the horse’s primary veterinarian, consult-ing veterinarian, trainer and owners, as well as any veterinar-ian the owner chooses in order to provide a continuity of care.

The essential elements of AAEP policy concerning the veterinar-ians’ role in medication administration for the horse in competition are as follows:

• Veterinarians should refer clients’ questions regarding medi-cation advice to the appropriate source such as the AQHA, FEI and USEF. It is recommended that these resources be made readily available to veterinarians, owners, riders and trainers from each of the sanctioning bodies.

• Organizations that have published drug regulations (AQHA, FEI, USEF) should be consulted by the sanctioning body of the equestrian competition which have no regulation on the use of medication for competition.

• US Equestrian (USEF) has a 12-hour rule that prohibits injections prior to competition with certain, well-defined exceptions. This rule should be adopted by other sanctioning bodies and promoted by the practitioner.

• Oral administration of various supplements containing a combination of electrolytes, amino acids and herbs are marketed and sold in large quantities to the performance horse owner/trainer with the advertised purpose to “quiet” the competition horse. The use of these supplements violates the spirit of the rules concerning the quieting of competition horses and the AAEP recommends that their use be discour-aged by veterinarians.

• The use of medroxyprogesterone (MPA) should be discour-aged for horses in competition. The AAEP has issued a state-ment opposing the use of MPA in competition horses and the USEF prohibits its use in their sanctioned events.

• Bisphosphonates in the competing horse should be used with discretion. Its use should be restricted to those forms of bisphosphonate that are labeled for use in horses, be adminis-tered as labeled by the manufacturer, and in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the event.

• In some disciplines, acepromazine is sometimes permitted to be used as a quieting agent. The AAEP discourages its use in competition.


Position on the Use of Anabolic SteroidsDefinition and Mode of Action

Anabolic steroids are a group of naturally occurring and/or syn-thetic hormones including androgens (testosterone and its deriva-tives), estrogen and progestins. The action of these substances is to increase protein synthesis, particularly in skeletal muscle. Anabolic steroids have specific indications in the therapeutic treatment of medical conditions of horses.



Indications for UseIndications for use: Anabolic steroids are primarily effective

when the objective is to improve appetite, repair tissue, promote weight gain and accelerate recovery from disease. In horses, ana-bolic steroids may stimulate appetite and increase muscle mass, particularly when there has been marked tissue breakdown associ-ated with disease, prolonged anorexia, stress, or surgery.

Potential side effects of anabolic therapy: Anabolic steroids may cause aggressive or male-like behavior in mares or geldings. Of greater concern are the potentially adverse effects of anabolic steroids on the reproductive function of both mares and stallions. Although these effects are not thought to be permanent, consider-ation must be given to this possibility.

Additionally, anabolic steroids, like other drugs, should only be prescribed where a doctor/client/patient relationship exists and only for the therapeutic treatment of specific medical conditions. In adherence with its medication policies related to competition horses, the AAEP recommends that practitioners abide by the rules governing the jurisdiction or competition in which they practice. Veterinarians must exercise extreme caution in prescribing anabolic steroids to prevent their acquisition for human use.


Position on the Use of Corticosteroids

Definition and Mode of ActionCorticosteroids occur naturally or may be synthesized. The most

useful and desired effect of these compounds is to control inflam-mation. Corticosteroids have specific indications in the therapeutic treatment of medical conditions of horses.

Indications for UseIndications for use: Corticosteroids act and are indicated in a

wide variety of conditions that require anti-inflammatory therapy, such as joint inflammation, allergic conditions and skin disease.

Potential side effects of corticosteroid therapy: Some corticosteroids, when used excessively or too frequently, may have a negative effect on the body’s natural immune response. Locally injected, corticosteroids may weaken support tissues such as the cartilage and ligaments of a damaged joint if used excessively or indiscriminately. The frequent systemic use of corticosteroids may suppress the ability of the adrenal gland to produce naturally occurring corticosteroids and other hor-mones, thus creating a hormonal imbalance. Some corticosteroids have been implicated anecdotally as a cause of laminitis.

Additionally, corticosteroids, like other drugs, should only be prescribed where a doctor/client/patient relationship exists and only for the therapeutic treatment of specific medical conditions. In adherence with its medication policies related to competition horses, the AAEP recommends that practitioners abide by the rules governing the jurisdiction or competition in which they practice.


Position on the Use of Medroxyprogesterone Acetate in Competition Horses

Medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) is a synthetic progestin hormone administered to mares off-label in an attempt to suppress behavioral estrus. However, a controlled research study found

that MPA was not effective at suppression of behavioral estrus.1 Many veterinarians believe MPA modifies behavior by producing a calming effect in the horse and does not have a therapeutic benefit that goes beyond this behavior modification. Therefore, the AAEP recommends that MPA should not be administered to horses in competition.

¹Gee EK, C DeLuca, JL Stylski, PM McCue. Efficacy of medroxyproges-terone acetate in suppression of estrus in cycling mares. J Equine Vet Sci 2009;29:140-145


Racing

Private Practice by Regulatory Veterinarians The AAEP views as a conflict of interest the participation in private

practice by a “Regulatory Veterinarian” at the track where he or she serves in an official capacity.

(Regulatory Veterinarian means track veterinarian, examining veteri-narian, commission veterinarian, identifier or any other official capacity in the racing department.)

For the purposes of this policy, the associates in private practice of a regulatory veterinarian are similarly excluded from practice at the track where the regulatory veterinarian is employed.

This interpretation implies no intent to impugn any mem-bers who serve in dual capacities; but such conflicts of interest have invited misunderstanding, challenge and untoward public reaction.

Many states outlaw private practice by regulatory veterinarians. In those states where no regulation exists, professional ethics preclude such conflicts of interest.

Effective January 1, 1969, the AAEP will regard participation in private practice by a regulatory veterinarian at the track where he or she is employed as a serious breach of ethics and may be the cause for termination of membership or other disciplinary action.

A regulatory veterinarian may administer emergency first aid in the absence of a private practitioner, but such emergency treatment will be administered without fee and the case referred to a private practitioner for further care.


Reproduction

Veterinary Management of BroodmaresIt is the opinion of the AAEP that the commonly used diagnostic

and therapeutic procedures are important in the proper manage-ment of broodmares for optimum reproductive efficiency.

These procedures include, but are not limited to: palpation per rectum, ultrasound examination, visual and endoscopic examina-tion of the internal reproductive organs, endometrial culture, endo-metrial cytology, endometrial biopsy, hormone assays, intrauterine therapy, urogenital surgery, embryo and gamete retrieval, manipula-tion and transfer, and artificial insemination (AI).

AI should be performed under the direction of a licensed vet-erinarian pursuant to a valid VCPR. All other above named proce-dures should only be performed by a licensed veterinarian.



26 AAEP

Recommendations for Transported Semen as it Relates to Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA)

Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) with respect to stallions from which semen is collected and transported from the premises in the fresh cooled or frozen state:

1. Breeding stallions unvaccinated for EVA should be tested for evidence of equine viral arteritis infection using the serum neu-tralization test. No stallion should be vaccinated for the first time without its prevaccination titer first being established.

2. Seronegative stallions (titers of less than 1:4) should be vacci-nated at least 28 days prior to breeding or semen collection and receive an annual booster. Vaccinated stallions should be isolated for 28 days post vaccination. Seronegative stallions that are vaccinated for EVA should be vaccinated at least 28 days prior to breeding or semen collection and receive an annual booster. Vaccinated stallions should be isolated 28 days post vaccination.

3. Seropositive stallion’s (unvaccinated) shedding status should be determined every 12 months either by: Attempted virus isolation on semen or, testbreeding to at least two seronegative mares and monitoring for seroconversion at 14 and 28 days post breeding.

4. Seropositive stallions (vaccinated) need not be tested for virus shedding if seronegative prior to initial vaccination.

5. The serologic and shedding status of non-EVA vaccinated sero-positive stallions should be made known to mare owners receiv-ing the semen. This information should also be reported to state authorities where so required and to breed associations where so required.

6. Stallions seropositive for EVA from natural exposure need not be vaccinated.

Guidelines pertaining to mares which will be inseminatedwith transported fresh cooled or frozen semen.

1. Seronegative mares to be inseminated with semen from an equine arteritis virus shedding stallion should be vaccinated against EVA at least 21 days prior to insemination. These vaccinated animals should be isolated for 21 days post vaccination.

2. Mares seropositive for EVA from natural exposure need not be vaccinated.


Veterinary Management of theBreeding Stallion

It is the opinion of the AAEP that proper management of the breeding stallion is paramount in obtaining optimum breeding effi-ciency. Proper management requires close cooperation between the licensed veterinarian and stallion manager. The licensed veterinar-ian can contribute various diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to this partnership.

These procedures include, but are not limited to, the follow-ing: visual, tactile, endoscopic and sonographic examination of the reproductive organs; collection and evaluation of semen (i.e. assessment of spermatozoal number, initial spermatozoal motility, longevity of spermatozoal motility and spermatozoal morphology); evaluation of spermatozoal responsiveness to cooling and freezing techniques; evaluation of extender compatibility with semen; repro-ductive tract culture; reproductive tract biopsy; adjunctive diagnos-tic techniques (e.g. hormonal assays, sperm chromatin structure assay, antisperm antibody assay and transmission electronic micros-

copy); medical therapeutic strategies; and urogenital surgery.A reproduction examination should be carried out by a licensed

veterinarian prior to entry of a stallion into a breeding program and periodically during his breeding career in order to manage the stallion to his maximum efficiency. Semen collections should be performed by a licensed veterinarian or qualified reproductive tech-nician in association with a veterinarian. Diagnostic tests, medical treatments and urogenital surgery should be conducted only by a licensed veterinarian.


Recommendations Regarding Equine Viral Arteritis (EVA) Please visit the Biosecurity Guidelines for Control of Venereally Transmitted Diseases at aaep.org/guidelines/infectious-disease- control/biosecurity-guidelines-control-venereally- transmitted-diseases

Breeding Terminology In providing written reports to interested parties, the AAEP encour-

ages all equine practitioners to use the following terms when conduct-ing reproductive examinations:

Pregnant: Any filly or mare shall be characterized as “pregnant” if and only if a licensed veterinarian has made such a determination. Any such report should include the method of diagnosis (i.e. palpation per rectum, transrectal ultrasound, etc.) and the approximate length of gestation. A statement regarding whether or not the examining veterinarian has determined that the pregnancy appears normal for the gestational age should also be included. Knowledge of any adjunct method(s) used to aid in the maintenance of said pregnancy should be disclosed.

Aborted: Any filly or mare that is not pregnant at the time of examination by a licensed veterinarian should be reported as “aborted” rather than “not pregnant” if the person rendering the report is actually aware that (a) an aborted fetus was observed or (b) the mare had been previously declared “pregnant” based on an examination by a licensed veterinarian at 42 days or more post mating.

Not Pregnant: Any filly or mare that has been examined for pregnan-cy by a licensed veterinarian, and found not to be pregnant at the time of that examination shall be characterized as “not pregnant” unless there is evidence that the filly or mare has “aborted” as defined above. Any such report shall include the method of determination.

Suitable for Mating: Any filly or mare that is not pregnant shall be characterized as “suitable for mating” if examination by a licensed vet-erinarian does not reveal any obvious abnormalities that would impair the animal’s ability to have a reasonable chance of becoming pregnant and carrying a foal to term. The examination of the reproductive tract (ovaries, uterus, cervix, vagina, vestibule and perineum) should include palpation per rectum and where practical, transrectal ultraso-nography as well as visual and manual examination of the vagina and cervix. While other tests and criteria can be used to further evaluate the animal’s potential fertility, employment of such techniques shall be at the discretion of the examiner or their client. A filly or mare may be characterized as “suitable for mating” based on only one examination even though additional examinations may enhance the likelihood of discovering reproductive abnormalities.

Mating: The physical act of a stallion mounting a filly or mare with intromission of the penis. Artificial insemination qualifies as mating for breeds that permit artificial insemination.

Mated: Any filly or mare that has undergone the physical act of mat-ing but whose pregnancy status has not been determined.



Stillborn: Any foal, after at least 320 days of gestation, that is dead at the time of delivery.

Neonatal Death: Any foal that dies within 14 days of foaling from a medical condition determined to be existing at or dating from birth.

Foal Died: Any foal that stands and nurses unassisted and subse-quently dies from a condition not determined to be existing at or dating from birth.


Sales Issues

Position on Therapeutic Medication to Horses for Sale at Public Auction

To conceptually evaluate the interaction of medication used in the sales horse, its health care and public auction implications, the AAEP evaluated the peri-sales timeframe in three time periods and assessed the effect of medication as a part of the horse’s health care in each time period.

Time Period I: The Pre-sale Period. This is the interval from the time the horse enters sales prep until its presentation at the sales ground. The principal stakeholder in this time period is the owner and/or consignor of the horse to public auction. They should be allowed to care for the horse in the best possible manner to safe-guard its health while fairly representing the true status of the horse.

Time Period II: The Sales Period. This is the time that the horse is on the sales ground at the auction site. The stakeholders in this time period expand from owner/consignor to also include the auc-tion company, potential buyers and their respective agents. The philosophy of medication use during this period must contemplate the horse’s medical needs as well as the importance of allowing potential buyers the opportunity to formulate an accurate assess-ment of the horse. In addition to evaluating the health of the horse at the time of sale, there is an obligation to foster future health of the horse going forward.

Time Period III: The Post-sales Period. The purchaser is the stake-holder. It is the purview of the purchaser to ensure that they have bought a fairly represented sales horse, but it is not under the pur-view of the purchaser to return the horse for anything other than a definitive violation of the published Conditions of Sale.

Guidelines for Treatment: In the interest of the ability of the pur-chaser to evaluate a potential purchase in a fair and uncomplicated manner, it is recommended that:

• All treatments administered while the horse is on the sales grounds must be properly documented, the documentation to include the results of a veterinarian’s examination and justification for treatment.

• The treatment records should optimally be housed in the sales office or the repository and be made available to potential buyers and/or their agents and veterinarians. This procedure will require the cooperation of the sales companies to imple-ment these policies for the sake of integrity and transparency.

Medication Recommendations As a general recommendation for medication of sales horses, the

AAEP recommends that no medication be given within 24 hours of the start of a horse’s sales session, except in such situations as where certain medications can facilitate a fair and safe sale for both parties’ benefit. An example could be the administration of acepromazine to facilitate safe handling. To the extent that this

administration would be permitted, the AAEP recommends the recording and disclosure of this and all treatments.

These administrations are to be performed in compliance with the Sales Company’s Conditions of Sale relative to medication.

The AAEP recommends that therapeutic medications be per-mitted only at concentrations below the thresholds prescribed in the ARCI’s Schedule of Controlled Therapeutic Substances. In the event of conflict with this recommendation, the Sales Company’s Conditions of Sale supersede the ARCI’s schedule and the AAEP’s recommendation.

Note: Regarding the medications listed below, it is recognized that corticosteroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can exert a potent clinical effect and have the potential to mask clinical conditions and thereby not allow an accurate pre-sale appraisal by potential buyers. Intrathecal (joint and tendon sheath) injections of a corticosteroid for the purpose of masking clinical signs related to an underlying defect at any time would be considered an ethical breach.

The common medications given to horses intended for sales have been divided into categories. The categories are listed as generic classes of medication, and medication actions, to prevent the need for continually updating an exhaustive list of specific compounds.

Category 1: Permitted Medications. Horses can be medicated after an appropriate diagnosis during the pre-sale and sales period as long as they comply with ARCI Controlled Therapeutic Medication Schedule for Horses Version 4.0 or its current ARCI approved version (accessible though www.arci.com/resources). All medications must be detected at or below these threshold concentrations at the time of a breeze and/or at the time of sale. All medications—administered by any route—must be declared and transparent to potential buyers. Any medications not on the Schedule will be regulated by the testing laboratory’s Lower Limit of Detection. Exceptions to this medication rule would require an approved therapeutic exemption for that individual horse. Such approval for the exemption would be the responsibility of a sales company-appointed veterinarian. An example would be Progestins (Regumate, etc.) which would be allowable with veterinary docu-mentation in fillies for estrus suppression and mares for pregnancy maintenance but banned in all other categories of horses due to its anabolic effect. Additionally, horses that have been medicated with a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory must have no detectable level of a second non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug and horses that have been medicated with a corticosteroid must have no detectable level of a second corticosteroid.

Category 2: Medications Not Allowable on the Sales Ground. These are medications that may be administered in advance of a horse’s presentation at the sales grounds. Examples of these medica-tions include (but are not limited to): antiprotozoals, bronchodila-tors (e.g., clenbuterol and albuterol), diuretics, and vasoactive drugs (e.g., aspirin, isoxsuprine or pentoxifylline). The detection of one of these medications in a post-breeze or post-sale sample may result in the return of a horse per the Conditions of Sale. Individuals admin-istering these substances in advance of a sale are advised to conduct clearance testing before presenting their horses at the sales grounds.

Category 3: Banned Substances. Substances on the ARCI’s List of Prohibited Substances (accessible though www.arci.com/resources) are in this category.

With respect to the use of bisphosphonates, the AAEP board of directors has issued the following statement:

In the absence of research to refute the anecdotal observa-tions of deleterious effects of bisphosphonates on immature skeletons, the AAEP recommends that veterinarians follow


28 AAEP

the manufacturer’s labeling recommendations for admin-istration, particularly with regard to age. Also, because of the unknown duration and effect of bisphosphonates in horses, these drugs should be considered inappropriate for any horse, regardless of age, that is intended to be offered for sale at public auction as an athlete.

Anabolic steroids are banned substances, and veterinarians should be aware that it is not advisable to administer anabolic ste-roids to horses of any age intended for public auction. AAEP mem-bers should be aware of the following sales policies for each of the three major US Thoroughbred auction companies. Buyers of young horses may request testing for bisphosphonates and/or anabolic steroids to be performed at the time of purchase. If the sale horse tests positive, a buyer has the right, within 24 hours of notification, to initiate the return of the horse. The details of that process are defined in the Sales Companies’ Conditions of Sale.

Category 4: Medications that must be declared in the Repository or announced by the Auctioneer. These medications may be admin-istered as a component of the horse’s ongoing health care but may affect the purchaser’s decision as to the suitability of the horse, and therefore must be publicly declared for assessment by potential purchasers. Medications in this category include cyproheptadine, pergolide and antibiotics. (Note: Regarding any drugs found in Categories 2–5, the recommendation in their category will super-sede the ARCI CTS.)

Enforcement: AAEP does not have the power of enforcement. The principal enforcer must be the sales company, and the principal action should be the rescinding of the sale and return of the horse to the consignor. It is the desire of the AAEP to discourage legal action by any parties. The AAEP encourages the sales companies to make a concerted effort to be the power of dispute resolution for the fair and equitable protection of the purchaser and the seller. This may be done through a panel of experienced veterinarians or some other means outlined by the sales company. However, the sales company must take an active role in promoting the fair and equitable trans-action, as indicated by their taking of a commission for facilitating the sale of the horse.

The ultimate goals of these recommendations are (a) to establish what is acceptable, and what is not acceptable, for presentation of a horse at public auction (b) to have all consignors and veterinarians abide by those “best practices” in “good faith,” and (c) to have any disputes resolved without litigation. These guidelines are presented as a best practice for the mutual establishment of a fair value of horses at public auction. In the event that drug testing will be used in support of sales medication regulations, the sampling of the horse’s blood and/or urine must take place on the sales ground, by or under the direction of a licensed veterinarian and with the integ-rity of the sample maintained consistent with practices used in the management of post-race samples. Sample collection, processing, shipping and analysis protocols are defined in the Sales Companies’ Condition of Sale. In sales where horses must sell after a timed performance, such as a “two-year-old in training” sale, such per-formances are normally governed by the rules of racing in the state of the sale. To the extent they differ, those regulations supersede the recommendations outlined here. Likewise, in these sales where performance is part of the sales process, medications are sometimes allowed after exercise, if disclosed on the treatment sheets on file with the sales company, and accessible to the purchaser or the pur-chaser’s agent. The recommendations outlined here would also be superseded by these regulations. The AAEP recommends adoption of the above-described recommendation for all sales venues. These recommendations will be superseded by specific sales conditions

and can be modified as needed for specific sale sites and situations. It is hoped that the sales companies will take active roles in facili-tating the implementation of these recommendations and that they will be maintained and updated as required.

To reiterate, the primary objective is to establish “best practices” to serve as guidelines for the presentation of horses at public auc-tion for fair and equitable establishment of the horse’s value, and to deter the use of medication that may cloud the horse’s true status.


Cryptorchid – Definition The AAEP has adopted the following definition of retained tes-

ticle or cryptorchid.

Cryptorchid: Any animal that does not have two testes palpable in their entirety below the external inguinal rings. In the event of a dispute, the matter should be referred to a panel of veterinary arbitrators.


Dental Malocclusions Madibular brachygnathism (“parrot mouth” or MAL2) is the

condition in which the upper incisors protrude more rostrally than the lower incisors resulting in no occlusal contact between upper and lower central incisor teeth. Mandibular prognathism (“sow mouth,” “monkey mouth” or MAL3) is the condition in which the lower incisors protrude more rostrally than the upper incisors resulting in no occlusal contact between upper and lower central incisor teeth. The AAEP (and many breed organizations) consider these conditions undesirable traits.


Protocol for Pre-Sale Videoendoscopic Examination of the Upper Airway at Public Auction

Equipment must be capable of producing a digital video image of excellent quality.

Horse must be identified appropriately, and that identification must be in digital format with character generation on the screen, and/or video of the catalog page, followed by unbroken video of the face prior to introduction of the scope into the nares (right or left) and up to the larynx. This is a single stream video with no editing. The veterinarian performing the video or the consignor will submit each upper airway video on an individual flash drive or CD. Upper airway videos should be stored in a file separate from the radio-graphs in the repository in case of client request for one or the other.

Standard technique must include maximal abduction of aryte-noids induced by swallowing (multiple times) and nasal occlusion. The duration of the video must be sufficient to identify all laryngeal and pharyngeal structures as well as observing their maximal func-tion within the context of a resting exam.

The interval between the pre-sale videoendoscopic exam and the selling session will not exceed (10) days.




Recommended Guidelines for Post-Sale Examination of Horses Intended for Racing

(Guidelines pertain only to the Upper Respiratory Tract)

These guidelines are for post-sale examination and the reporting of upper respiratory endoscopy evaluations. For the purpose of this examination, “upper respiratory endoscopy” does not include the trachea.

1. Endoscopy of subject horse will be done at rest in the stall.2. Restrain with a twitch or lip chain; if restraint is removed

during the examination, make notation on certificate and document any differences in function observed.

3. Pass the endoscope up either nostril.4. Stimulate a swallowing reflex and/or perform nasal occlusion

to assist in evaluation of pharyngeal and laryngeal function. 5. Observe for anatomical form and function of upper respira-

tory structures.6. If a chemical restraint is needed, document the drug and

dosage. Re-examination of the horse is suggested if chemical restraint has been used or is suspected.

7. Document endoscopic observations and other pertinent find-ings on an appropriate certificate or suitable reporting form.

Conditions which should be considered unacceptable and should constitute grounds for rejection on the day of examination include, but are not limited to:

1. Laryngeal hemiplegia.2. Laryngeal hemiparesis with incomplete abductor function.3. Epiglottic entrapment. 4. Persistent DDSP. 5. Arytenoid chondritis. 6. Subepiglottic cyst. 7. Soft palate cyst.8. Rostral displacement of the palatopharyngeal arch. 9. Nasopharyngeal cicatrix.10. Space occupying lesions or malformation which compromise

the diameter of upper respiratory tract. 11. Cleft palate.

In the event of a dispute between the buyer’s veterinarian and the consignor’s veterinarian, the AAEP recommends that three veterinarians without conflicts of interest be drawn from an arbitration panel to adjudicate such dispute. The arbitration panel should consist of a pool of eight or more veterinarians and could be established in specific geographic areas by local equine practitioner organizations or equine sales companies. Criteria for selection would be based upon experience and expertise. The three veterinarians mutually selected by the buyer and consignor would have no knowledge of either the horse, buyer, or consignor.

Another acceptable method is to have five veterinarians selected from the pool; three examiners would then be picked from these five by a blind draw. They will examine the horse together and collectively determine the acceptance or rejection of the subject horse. Concurrence by two of the three examiners will be conclusive in such cases. Some conditions are generally considered an acceptable variation of normal, but at times may be viewed to affect the ability of the horse to perform its intended use.

Conditions that may elicit concern regarding suitability for rac-ing include the interpretation of:

1. Intermittent DDSP.2. Hypoplastic epiglottis.

3. Larygeneal hemiparesis with complete (full) abductor function. 4. Variations of epiglottic contour. 5. Pharyngeal lymphoid hyperplasia. 6. Mucopurulent discharge from guttural pouch. 7. Nasal septum deviation.

Detailed diagrams and descriptive terms of the pathology noted should be a part of the examining veterinarian’s records only. The certificate issued by individuals or the arbitration team to the sales companies or owners should be a generalized statement of the con-dition without implied warranty for future athletic potential of the subject horse at the time of the examination and should be prefaced by the phrase “In my opinion.”

Other recommendations from the AAEP include:

1. That sales companies obtain a consent form signed by both consignors and buyers to agree to the consent of an arbitra-tion panel and their binding conclusion thereof.

2. That sales companies attempt to institute a uniform agree-ment among consignors regarding pre-sale examinations on the sales grounds. It was the consensus of the subcommittee that either pre-sale examinations be uniformly allowed or disallowed, so as to establish conformity for consignors and buyers without allowing a selective advantage in the sales process to selected individuals.


Guidelines for ReportingPurchase Examinations

The AAEP has approved the following guidelines for reporting equine purchase examinations. The spirit of these guidelines is to provide a framework which will aid the veterinarian in reporting a purchase exam, and to define that it is the buyer’s responsibility to determine if the horse is suitable. These guidelines are neither designed for nor intended to cover any examinations other than purchase examinations. (e.g. limited examinations at auction sales and other special purchase examinations, such as lameness, endoscopic, ophthalmic, radiographic, reproductive examinations, etc.). While compliance with all of the following guidelines helps to ensure a properly reported purchase examination, it remains the sole responsibility of the veterinarian to determine the extent and depth of each examination. The AAEP recognizes that for practical reasons, not all examinations permit or require veterinarians to adhere to each of the following guidelines.

1. All reports should be included in the medical record.2. The report should contain:

a. A description of the horse with sufficient specificity to fully identify it.

b. The time, date and place of the examination.3. The veterinarian should list all abnormal or undesirable find-

ings discovered during the examination and give his or her qualified opinions as to the functional effect of these findings.

4. The veterinarian should make no determination and express no opinions as to the suitability of the animal for the purpose intended. This issue is a business judgment that is solely the responsibility of the buyer that he or she should make on the basis of a variety of factors, only one of which is the report provided by the veterinarian.

5. The veterinarian should record and retain in the medical record a description of all the procedures performed in con-nection with the purchase examination, but the examination procedures need not be listed in detail in the report.


30 AAEP

6. The veterinarian should qualify any finding and opinions expressed to the buyer with specific references to tests that were recommended but not performed on the horse (x-rays, endoscopy, blood, drug, EKG, rectal, nerve blocks, labora-tory studies, etc.) at the request of the person for whom the examination was performed.

7. The veterinarian should record and retain the name and address of parties involved with the examination (buyer, seller, agent, witness, etc.).

8. A copy of the report and copies of all documents relevant to the examination should be retained by the veterinarian for a period of years not less than the statute of limitations appli-cable for the state in which the service was rendered. Local legal counsel can provide advice as to the appropriate period of retention.

Recommendations for Purchase Exams at Public Auction• Radiographic interpretation for potential buyers should be per-

formed by a veterinarian retained to represent that buyer’s personal interest with their particular needs and level of risk tolerance in mind.

• Use of radiographic reports composed by the sellers’ veterinarian for proposed buyers has the potential to jeopardize all parties involved. The buyer may not be represented adequately, the seller incurs great-er risk by potentially misrepresenting the horse and the veterinarian does not have the opportunity to explain his/her findings and their relevance to resale or training, in their opinion.

• Veterinarians are encouraged to report all radiographic findings when interpreting radiographs for either the seller or buyer at public auction, with particular emphasis on those areas where pathology would commonly occur.

• Modifying or altering radiographic reports, including deleting findings by either the veterinarian or anyone with access to the report, so that they might be used as a positive marketing tool in the auction venue is considered unethical and fraudulent.

• Veterinarians with ownership in horses being presented for public auction should avoid being involved in the representation of those horses to potential buyers including, but not limited to, performing a radiographic or endoscopic assessment.

• Veterinarians involved in performing radiographic examinations on horses for sale at public auction should strive to provide optimum radiographic quality with respect to proper positioning and appro-priate exposure of all required views to ensure accurate and reliable determinations of findings.

Radiographs – Custody and Distribution

The AAEP recommends the retention of all radiographs on file for a period of three years. The AAEP and AVMA consider this essential for protection against litigation. The assertion of legal precedent is that radiographs are the property of the veterinarians who produced them, and only the information interpreted from the radiograph is the property of the client. In extenuating cir-cumstances a copy of the radiograph can be made for distribution, including for referrals and consultations. Distribution of the origi-nal radiographs risks loss or misplacement such practice should be restricted to use in referrals and consultations, and then released only upon proper request.


Position on Sale DisclosureAAEP supports the position that when a horse is sold, any known

invasive surgery, disease, injury, or congenital defect which is not apparent, should be disclosed to the intended buyer by the owner and/or agent.

The AAEP supports disclosure of ownership by single or multiple owners of a horse at the time of offering for sale.


Veterinary Practice

Position on Practice of Veterinary Medicine Every veterinarian should be familiar with the legal definition of the

practice of veterinary medicine as defined in their state or provincial Veterinary Practice Act. The AAEP defines the practice of veterinary medicine for the ethical guidance of its members as the following:

“Practice of veterinary medicine” means: Any person practices veterinary medicine with respect to animals

when such person performs any one or more of the following:

a. Diagnoses, prognoses, treats or prevents animal disease, illness, pain, deformity, defect, injury, or other physical, dental, or mental conditions by any method or mode; or

b. Prescribes, dispenses, or administers a drug, medicine, biologic, appliance, or treatment of whatever nature; or

c. Performs upon an animal a medical procedure, a surgical or dental operation, or a complementary, integrative, or alternative veterinary medical procedure; or

d. Performs upon an animal any manual procedure for the diagnosis and /or treatment of pregnancy, sterility, or infertility; or

e. Upon examination determines the health, fitness, or soundness of an animal; or

f. Directly or indirectly consults, supervises, or recommends treat-ment of an animal by any means including telephonic and other electronic communications; or

g. Represents oneself directly or indirectly, as engaging in the prac-tice of veterinary medicine; or

h. Uses any words, letters or titles under such circumstance as to induce the belief that the person using them is qualified to engage in the practice of veterinary medicine, as defined. Such use shall be prima facie evidence of the intent to represent oneself as engaged in the practice of veterinary medicine.


Position on Roles of Healthcare Providers in Veterinary Medicine

The AAEP recognizes that quality professional healthcare often requires the services of a Healthcare Team. The attending veterinar-ian is the leader of the Healthcare Team and is ultimately respon-sible for all healthcare decisions made concerning an equine patient until that patient is referred or discharged. The attending veterinar-ian may delegate appropriate healthcare tasks, allowable by state law, to subordinate healthcare providers. Referral, as defined by the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP), American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), American College of



Theriogenologists (ACT), and American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC), is the transfer of respon-sibility for diagnosis and/or care of a specific problem from a refer-ring veterinarian to a receiving veterinarian.

The establishment of a valid Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship and the examination and diagnosis of the patient by the attending veterinarian prior to the delegation of any equine healthcare task to subordinate healthcare providers is prerequisite to ethical veterinary practice. The attending veterinarian is respon-sible for determining the professional competency of a healthcare provider before delegating equine healthcare tasks.

The following outlines the appropriate roles of different healthcare providers within the scope of ethical professional veterinary practice:

A. Licensed Veterinarians: The examination, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and management of equine healthcare are to be provided and supervised by licensed veterinarians.

B. Credentialed Technicians: Licensed Veterinarians may delegate healthcare tasks that are not restricted to veterinarians, to Licensed/Certified/Registered Veterinary Technicians (LVTs) who are under the employ and supervision of the Licensed Veterinarian. While some states allow LVTs to perform “minor” dental and surgical procedures, the AAEP does not support the delegation of any invasive procedures and pro-cedures with significant risk of complication (e.g. castration, dental extraction and advanced procedures, reproductive examination).

C. Uncredentialed Assistants: Licensed Veterinarians may del-egate ancillary healthcare tasks to Veterinary Assistants (not registered, certified, or licensed) that are under the employ and supervision of the Licensed Veterinarian. The Licensed Veterinarian may delegate direct supervision of a Veterinary Assistant to a LVT.

D. Human Healthcare Professionals (HHP): Veterinarians occa-sionally confer with or have Licensed Human Healthcare Professionals (MD, DC, DDS, etc.) perform procedures on their equine patients. While the collaboration between vet-erinarians and HHPs advances healthcare standards, this collaboration is usually only appropriate between veterinary and HHP specialists. The ethical indications for having HHPs perform procedures on veterinary patients are rare, and pro-cedures performed by the HHP on veterinary patients should be performed under the Immediate Supervision of a Licensed Veterinarian. The attending veterinarian is responsible for ensuring compliance with state law before soliciting HHP services.

E. Unlicensed Allied Healthcare Providers (UAHP): (e.g., Veterinary Physical Therapist/Rehabilitator, Farrier, Hospice Caregiver, etc.) While conferring with and inclusion of UAHPs in an equine healthcare team may be appropriate in the treat-ment of some equine patients, the healthcare services provided by the UAHP should be performed under the order and/or supervision of the Attending Veterinarian, who is responsible for reviewing the training of the UAHP before soliciting his/her services. Ethical practice dictates that services beyond an attending veterinarian’s scope of professional training and competency be referred to an appropriately trained veterinar-ian who provides the required healthcare services. The AAEP does believe that, in certain situations, working with UAHPs under the proper context and within the construct of a Veterinarian-Client-Patient Relationship can lead to optimum health care for the horse.


Position on Levels of SupervisionEthical veterinary practice dictates that members of the healthcare

team be supervised by the attending veterinarian. The levels of supervi-sion described are defined as follows:

1. Immediate supervision: A licensed veterinarian is within direct eyesight and hearing range during the performance of healthcare tasks.

2. Direct supervision: A licensed veterinarian is physically present on the premises where animal healthcare tasks are to be performed and is readily available.

3. Indirect supervision: A licensed veterinarian is not physically present on the premises where animal healthcare tasks are to be performed, but has given either written or oral instructions (“direct order”) for treatment of the animal patient and is able to perform the duties of a licensed veterinarian by maintaining direct communication.


Contingency FeesIt is not ethical for a veterinarian to enter into agreements with clients

which provide that the fee to be charged for certain services will be con-tingent upon a horse’s successful performance on the racetrack or in the show ring. Such an agreement is unethical in that the veterinarian must at all times render the ultimate in assistance to the patient and charge a fee appropriate for the services rendered. The veterinarian’s fee is not based on a subsequent event, but directly connected with the services rendered. There are no guarantees in medicine, expressed or implied.

A fee contingent upon the outcome of a race gives the veterinarian a vested interest in the horse, and the racing rules in many states preclude such practices. In other states where the rules do not exist, such vested interest will be considered as a conflict of interest with the owners of all other horses in the race.

This is not to be confused with attempted surgical repair or treatment of cases with poor prognosis if such efforts promise educational benefit, and of cases that would have been destroyed for economic reasons. In those cases, it is proper for a veterinarian to share efforts on a contin-gency basis with the client.


Conflicts of InterestA conflict of interest, as it pertains to veterinary medicine, is a

situation in which the veterinarian has competing professional or personal interests. Such competing interests can make it difficult for the veterinarian to fulfill his or her duties impartially. A conflict of interest can exist even if no unethical or improper act results from it; however, it can create an appearance of impropriety that can undermine confidence in the person or profession.

The AAEP suggests the following guidelines for its members:

1. A veterinarian should strongly consider whether or not to render services to a client if in doing so the veterinarian’s independent professional judgment will be adversely affected by a personal, professional or financial relationship with either the client or a third party.

2. A veterinarian should strongly consider whether or not to render services to a client if the services to that client will be adversely affected by the veterinarian’s responsibilities to another client, a third party or the veterinarian’s own interests.



32 AAEP

Position on Equine Dentistry The practice of equine dentistry is an integral branch of profes-

sional equine veterinary practice. This discipline encompasses all aspects of the evaluation, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, and pre-vention of any and all diseases, disorders, and conditions that affect the teeth, oral cavity, mandible, maxillofacial area, and the adjacent and associated structures. Additionally, equine dentistry includes the evaluation of the presentation and contribution of systemic dis-eases within the oral cavity and the contribution of oral conditions to the overall health of the individual horse.

Any surgical procedure of the head or oral cavity; the admin-istration or prescription of sedatives, tranquilizers, analgesics or anesthetics; procedures which are invasive of the tissues of the oral cavity including, but not limited to, removal of sharp enamel points, treatment of malocclusions of premolars, molars, and inci-sors, odontoplasty, the extraction of first premolars and deciduous premolars and incisors; extraction of damaged or diseased teeth; treatment of diseased teeth via restorations or endodontic proce-dures; periodontal and orthodontic treatments; dental radiography and endoscopy of the oral cavity are veterinary dental procedures and should be performed by a licensed veterinarian.

In states where the Veterinary Practice Act allows, the AAEP sup-ports the use of licensed veterinary technicians under the employ and immediate supervision of licensed veterinarians for specific and appropriate veterinary dental procedures as enumerated in that state’s practice act.


Euthanasia GuidelinesIn accordance with AVMA’s Guidelines for the Euthanasia of

Animals, the AAEP concurs that euthanasia is an acceptable humane procedure once all available alternatives have been explored with the client. In certain cases, euthanasia should be regarded as a responsible treatment option. The AAEP supports euthanasia when that choice is best for the horse and in accordance with the role of the veterinarian as the animal’s advocate.

The AAEP recommends that the following guidelines be considered in evaluating the need for humane euthanasia of a horse. The attending veterinarian is able to assist in making this determination, especially regarding the degree to which a horse is suffering. Guidelines are listed below to assist in making humane decisions regarding euthanasia of horses.

A horse should not have to endure the following:• Continuous or unmanageable pain from a condition that is

chronic and incurable.• A medical condition or surgical procedure that has a poor

prognosis for a good quality of life.• Continuous analgesic medication and/or box stall confine-

ment for the relief of pain for the rest of its life.• An unmanageable medical or behavioral condition that ren-

ders it a hazard to itself or its handlers.The following euthanasia techniques are deemed acceptable by

properly trained personnel:1. Lethal dose of barbiturates (intravenous) 2. Gunshot to the brain (prior sedation should be considered

when possible)3. Penetrating captive bolt to the brain using an extended bolt

designed for euthanasia (prior sedation should be considered when possible)

4. Lidocaine hydrochloride 2% (intrathecal) with the horse in a surgical plane of general anesthesia

5. A concentrated solution of either potassium chloride (intra-venous) or magnesium sulfate (intravenous) with the horse in a surgical plane of general anesthesia

6. Alternative methods may be necessary in special circum-stances under the discretion of the veterinarian.

The choice of euthanasia technique should take into consideration local laws and regulations, the experience and training of the vet-erinarian and the final disposition of the horse. In some jurisdictions the use of pentobarbital may be discouraged due to the potential for environmental residues.

Prior to euthanasia, clear determination of the insurance status of the horse should be made as an insurance policy constitutes a contract between the horse owner(s) and the insurance carrier.


Guidelines for Equine Veterinary Case Referral

Executive SummaryThe Veterinary Oath obligates practicing veterinarians to use

their knowledge and skills for the benefit of society and the preven-tion of animal suffering. This is often best accomplished through the coordinated efforts of multiple individuals working on behalf of a single patient to provide the highest quality veterinary care in a professional and collegial environment. This document was developed through the collaborative efforts of the AAEP, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM), American College of Veterinary Surgeons (ACVS), American College of Theriogenologists (ACT), and American College of Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care (ACVECC) with a goal of providing practical communication guidelines for individuals who collaborate in equine patient care.

DefinitionsReferring Veterinarian: The veterinarian (or group of veterinarians) providing care at the time of the referral. Receiving Veterinarian: The veterinarian (or group of veterinarians) to whom a patient is referred.

Consultation: A communication between two or more veterinarians concerning the diagnosis and/or care of a patient.

Referral: The transfer of responsibility for diagnosis and/or care of a specific problem from a referring veterinarian to a receiving veterinarian.

Recognized Veterinary Specialist: A veterinarian who is certified by an AVMA-recognized veterinary specialty organization. Only those individuals who have completed all aspects of the specific training and testing required by a recognized veterinary specialty organization can describe or advertise themselves as a veterinary specialist. These individuals are ethically bound to only advertise or claim expertise in their area of board certification. Veterinarians who have completed internships or residencies but have not fulfilled all of the requirements of a specialty discipline (e.g. credentials and testing), may not call themselves veterinary specialists and the terms “board eligible” or “board qualified” should not be used. The AVMA has stated that only veterinarians who have been certi-fied by an AVMA-recognized specialty organization should refer to themselves as specialists.

Legal Owner/Client: The legal owner is the individual or syndicate of individuals who have legal ownership of the horse. The term “client” refers to the agent with legal authority to make health care deci-



sions for the horse at the time it is being examined and treated. This individual may be the legal owner, trainer, caretaker, or other proxy.

It is in the best interests of individual horse health that veterinary professionals work as a team to provide the highest quality of vet-erinary care possible in an environment of exceptional client service and education. For this to happen, it is imperative that clear lines of communication and responsibility be established between veterinar-ians, clients, and other interested parties.

Prior to Referral Prior to referral, it is the responsibility of the referring veterinarian to

be aware of specialty referral resources in their geographic area, com-municate the option of referral to the client in a timely fashion, and contact the receiving veterinarian to discuss the patient. It is the respon-sibility of the receiving veterinarian to provide appropriate preliminary visit information to the referring veterinarian and owner or agent of the horse. The referral process functions optimally if the owner or agent communicates clearly their expectations for the horse and the limits of costs that may be incurred. It is important that all parties provide a clear and accurate medical history to the receiving veterinarian. Both the referring and the receiving veterinarian should emphasize a team approach to patient care.

During the Referral VisitDuring the referral visit, the referring veterinarian transfers the

responsibility for health-care decisions to the receiving veterinarian but remains accessible for communication. The receiving veterinar-ian should clearly explain all aspects of the examination, evalua-tion, diagnostic, and treatment procedures and options to the client. This process should emphasize support of the referring veterinarian to the fullest extent possible without a compromise of integrity. The receiving veterinarian should communicate with the refer-ring veterinarian and client regularly about case progression and decisions. The receiving veterinarian should limit services to those related to the problem for which the horse was referred. Additional services should be provided only when they are in the best interest of the patient and after consultation with the referring veterinarian. All parties should work together to formulate a follow-up treat-ment and evaluation plan for the patient that can be implemented effectively and economically. It is the responsibility of the owner to clearly determine and communicate who is legally and financially responsible for the horse and assure that this individual or their legal proxy is available for decision-making during the referral visit and at the time of patient discharge.

After ReferralAt the time of discharge of the patient from their care, the receiv-

ing veterinarian should ensure that all relevant medical information and instructions for patient care are clearly communicated to the referring veterinarian. In most cases the referring veterinarian will then resume responsibility as the attending clinician for the patient. That individual is responsible for agreed-upon follow-up care as described in discharge instructions. The receiving veterinarians should be informed of the results of follow-up evaluation and care. It is the responsibility of the owner to comply with all discharge instructions to the best of their ability and to communicate in a timely way with veterinarians if they are unable to comply with the instructions and to meet all financial obligations incurred with all involved parties.

ConclusionsFor all equine patients, effective communication between refer-

ring and receiving veterinarians, clients, farm managers, trainers, and insurance agency representatives is essential to ensure optimal patient care. Despite the best efforts of all involved, there will be times when communication is less than optimal or when difficult information must be discussed. Referring and receiving veterinar-ians are encouraged to seek training to develop communication skills through any of a wide variety of excellent public and private resources. This type of training is especially beneficial for young professionals at the beginning of their veterinary career.

To see the full guidelines visit aaep.org/guidelines/ guidelines-equine-veterinary-case-referral.


Equine Veterinary Compounding Guidelines The AAEP recognizes the importance of a sound relationship

between the equine veterinarian and their pharmacist. Because of the valid role of pharmacy compounding in equine veterinary medicine, the AAEP Drug Compounding Task Force has compiled the follow-ing guide to aid the veterinarian in making responsible decisions involving the use of compounded medications.

Veterinarians must understand the differences between the following:

I. FDA Pioneer Drug: A drug that has undergone the scrutiny of blinded controlled studies to demonstrate safety and efficacy in accordance with federally mandated Good Laboratory Procedures (GLP). The active ingredient and product were manufactured under federally mandated Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in federally inspected plants. Therapeutic consistency, product quality, accurate drug shelf life and scientifically substantiated labeling are all federally mandated on these products.

II. Generic Drug: A generic drug is bioequivalent to a brand-name drug in dosage form, efficacy, safety, strength, route of admin-istration, quality and intended use. Generic drug labels display an ANADA # or ANDA # signifying FDA approval of a generic animal drug or human drug, respectively. Generic drugs and their active ingredients also must be manufactured under GMP in feder-ally inspected plants.

III. Compounded Drug: Any drug manipulated to produce a dos-age form drug (other than that manipulation that is provided for in the directions for use on the labeling of the approved drug product).

The veterinarian must realize that the use of bulk drugs in prepa-ration of compounded medications is, under strict interpretation of the Federal Food Drug and Cosmetic Act, illegal because it results in the production of an unapproved new animal drug. Preparation, sale, distribution and use of unapproved new animal drugs is in vio-lation of the Act. The preparation of compounded medication from bulk drugs may be permissible in medically necessary situations when there is no approved product available or the needed com-pounded preparation cannot be made from an FDA-approved drug. Therefore legal compounding can only begin with FDA-approved drugs in compliance with federal extra-label drug use regulations. International AAEP members should adhere to the rules and regula-tions set forth by the appropriate governmental regulatory bodies that pertain to the country or province where they practice.

Legal compounding requires a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship. The veterinarian should limit the use of compounded drugs to unique needs in specific patients and limit the use of com-pounded drugs to those uses for which a physiological response to


34 AAEP

therapy or systemic drug concentrations can be monitored, or those for which no other method or route of drug delivery is practical. The prescribing veterinarian should remember that compounded drugs have not been evaluated by the FDA approval process for safety, efficacy, stability, potency and consistency of manufacturing. One should not assume compounded drugs are consistent from one batch to another, contain the stated amount of drug substance or the desired drug substance, or are safe and efficacious for the intended use.

Consider that veterinary compounding pharmacies currently operate in a very dynamic regulatory situation and laws, regulations and guidelines regarding veterinary compounding may vary widely from state to state. Ensure that the pharmacy you use is licensed in the state in which you practice. Proactively seek to educate yourself on regulations concerning compounded medications. Be wary of pharmacies using trademarked brands in the literature to promote “look-alike” compounded products. Be wary of firms that appear to disregard federal, state and local laws, regulations and guidelines concerning disposition of compounded drug products. Be aware that compounding drugs to mimic licensed, FDA-approved drugs is illegal. Assuming there is an FDA-approved product that is in the appropri-ate dosage form that can be used for the specific patient indication, veterinarians cannot use compounded “look-alikes” as substitutes.

The decision to use the products, in lieu of the FDA-approved product, is illegal and potentially jeopardizes the patient and the veterinarian’s liability insurance. In the long term, this practice by veterinarians discourages new product development by pharmaceuti-cal companies.

Veterinarians are encouraged to contact their state pharmacy boards concerning the re-selling of compounded products. Some state pharmacy boards reportedly require compounded drugs to be dispensed at cost and some allow regular mark up.

The prescribing veterinarian should consider the legal, ethical and clinical ramifications when making recommendations concerning the use of compounded medications for their patients. They should pro-vide information about the benefits and risks of compounded drugs as it is important to an owner’s decisions about therapy. They should understand the concept of “Standard of Care.” One acts below the standard of care when he/she fails to exercise the level of care, skill, diligence and treatment that is recognized as the standard of accept-able and prevailing veterinary medicine.

The prescribing veterinarian should understand that his/her professional liability policy may or may not respond to allegations of negligence arising from the use of compounded drugs. Veterinarians insured with the AVMA-PLIT may review comments at www.avmaplit.com.

Do not miss the opportunity to form a relationship with a pharma-cist experienced in compounding who, when medical necessity exists for a specific patient, can produce the best possible compounded product and discuss related product expectations.


Judicious Use of Antimicrobials The promotion of the health and welfare of equines and their own-

ers is the primary goal of members of the AAEP. Antimicrobials are a necessary tool to manage infectious diseases in equids, but adverse effects of antimicrobials and increasing development of multi-drug resistant organisms require the use of antimicrobials to be sparing and carefully considered. The following are general guidelines for the prudent therapeutic use of antimicrobials in equids:

1. The equine veterinarian’s primary responsibility is to provide clients with the best information and care regarding the pre-vention and treatment of equid disease.

2. Antimicrobials should be used only within the confines of a valid veterinarian-client-patient relationship; this includes both dispensing and prescriptions.

3. Veterinarians should:a. Participate in continuing education programs that

include topics on therapeutics and emerging and/or development of antimicrobial resistance.

b. Determine when antimicrobials are indicated through laboratory assessment, clinical experience, physical examination, and relevant history.

c. Consider clinical evidence of the identification of the pathogen(s) associated with the disease. Culture and sensitivity should be performed when the identity of the organism or the antibiotic sensitivity pattern is unknown.

d. Select antimicrobials that are appropriate for the target organism and administered at a dosage and route that are likely to achieve effective concentrations in the target organ.

e. Make product choices and use regimens that are based on available laboratory and package insert information, additional data in the literature, and consideration of the pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic aspects of the antimicrobial drug; consult with a veterinary diagnostic microbiologist as appropriate.

f. Use products that have the narrowest spectrum of activ-ity and known efficacy in vivo and/or in vitro against the pathogen causing the disease.

g. Utilize antimicrobials at an appropriate dosage for the condition treated for as short a period of time as reason-able.

h. Select antimicrobials of lesser importance for human medicine whenever possible.

i. Avoid selection of antimicrobials based primarily on convenience of use.

j. Utilize antimicrobials on an extra-label basis only within the provisions contained within AMDUCA regulations. These regulations can be found at https://www.fda.gov/ animal-veterinary/acts-rules-regulations/animal- medicinal-drug-use-clarification-act-1994-amduca

k. Avoid using combination antimicrobial therapy unless there is evidence for either an increase in efficacy or suppression of resistance development for the target organism.

l. Protect product integrity through proper handling, stor-age, and observation of the expiration date.

m. Follow appropriate disposal recommendations; do not discard antimicrobials via landfill or sewage routes.

n. When appropriate and feasible, use local therapy prefer-entially over systemic therapy.

o. Consider use of effective and practical non-antimicro-bial treatment alternatives (excellent wound hygiene, antiseptic wound dressings, etc.).

4. Veterinarians should endeavor to ensure proper on-farm antimicrobial drug use.a. Prescription or dispensed drug quantities should be

limited such that stockpiling of antimicrobials on the farm is avoided.

The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine has developed a very detailed and extensive consensus statement for antimicrobial drug use in veterinary medicine. To view this document visit https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/jvim.12562




Policy for Membership Denial and Disciplinary Procedures

Note: When consulting the Policy for Membership Denial and Disciplinary Procedures, AAEP recommends you do so online at aaep.org/ethics/policy-membership-denial so you are accessing the most current version.

The procedures established in these Rules shall govern proceed-ings concerning membership in the Association conducted by the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee or any other body des-ignated by the Board of Directors. The procedures set forth in these Rules are subordinate to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws of the AAEP. In the event of any conflict between these Rules and the provisions of the Articles of Incorporation or the Bylaws, the latter shall prevail.

PREAMBLEProfessional ethics embodies the behaviors of honesty, integrity

and kindness while obeying rules and regulations set forth with mutual respect for opinion and preservation of dignity in interper-sonal relationships. The conduct should be in a manner that will enhance the worthiness of the profession. The ethical practice of medicine includes those remedies and treatments that have, as their short or long-term goal, the health and welfare of the horse. All members of the American Association of Equine Practitioners are expected to comply with (a) the Code of Ethics of the American Veterinary Medical Association (or counterpart in foreign coun-tries); (b) the AAEP’s Ethical and Professional Guidelines, Bylaws and procedures of their enforcement; (c) the Code of Ethics of the veterinary medical association of the state or province in which licensed; (d) all rules and regulations of racing applicable at race tracks where practicing; (e) rules of organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and the rules of all breed registries in relation to veterinary practices; and (f) all other laws of the land. Members and veterinarians should be honest and fair in their rela-tions with others, and they should not engage in fraud, misrepre-sentation or deceit. Violation of any of the foregoing may constitute cause for revocation or denial of membership in the AAEP. There is a process for members to file complaints against other members. Each case involving an AAEP member is reviewed by the AAEP Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee; in its discretion, the committee may make recommendations to the parties involved, up to, and including, disciplinary action.

ARTICLE 1 DEFINITIONSSection 1: As used herein, these terms shall have the following meaning:Action: either or both of an Application Review or the evaluation of a Complaint by the Committee.Applicant: a person who has completed and filed a new or renewal application for membership in the American Association of Equine Practitioners.Application Review: a review by the Committee of an application for membership in the Association.Association: the American Association of Equine Practitioners.Board: the Board of Directors of the Association, minus the Officers.Bylaws: the Bylaws of the American Association of Equine Practitioners.Chairman: the Chairman of the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee.

Complaint: a grievance filed against a Member pursuant to Article 2, Section 2.3 or 2.4.Complainant: a person who has made a Complaint against a Member pursuant to the procedures set forth herein.Committee: the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee.Disciplinary Action: action taken by the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee against a member of the Association in response to a Complaint. It includes any recommendations affecting membership. Executive Director: the Executive Director of the Association.Hearing: a meeting conducted by the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee in which dismissal, Disciplinary Action and/or cancellation of membership may result, as defined in Article 4.Members: the members of the Association.Officers: the Officers of the Association, except the Executive Director, as outlined in Article IV of the Articles of Incorporation.Party: the Complainant or Respondent in a disciplinary proceeding referred to herein. Petitioner: an Applicant or Respondent requesting a rehearing.Regulatory Action: fines, probation, suspension or revocation taken against a veterinary or race track license by a regulatory agency; or for-mal disciplinary action taken by organizations governing horse shows, sales and equine events and breed registries in relation to the practice of veterinary medicine.Respondent: a Member against whom a Complaint has been made.Revocation: Revocation of AAEP membership is defined as an imme-diate action to terminate AAEP membership, which cannot thereafter be renewed or restored, but only replaced upon application for new membership.Suspension: Suspension is a temporary withdrawal of a person’s AAEP membership for a specified period of time and often contingent upon other conditions being met before membership is restored.

ARTICLE 2 INITIATION AND FILING OF ACTIONSSection 2.1: The Executive Director, on behalf of the Association, may initiate an Application Review by the Committee of any Applicant for new membership or for renewal of AAEP membership who has failed to report Regulatory Action as set forth in the Bylaws Article IV Section 3(b)(1) through 3(b)(3) and Article IV Section 3(b)(4) through 3(b)(6).Section 2.2: In addition to initiating an Application Review pursuant to Section 2.1, the Executive Director, on behalf of the Association, may initiate a complaint against any active member, pursuant to the grounds set forth in the Bylaws Article IV Section 3(b)(i) through 3(b)(vii).Section 2.3: Any Member in good standing may file a Complaint against any Member. The Complaint must be: (a) in writing and name the Respondent, (b) dated and signed by the Complainant, (c) addressed to the Executive Director, and (d) contain ground(s) for the Complaint as set forth in the Bylaws Article IV Section 3(b)(i) through 3(b)(vii). As stated in the preamble, the committee, in its discretion, may make recommendations to the parties involved up to, and includ-ing, disciplinary action. Section 2.4: The initiation of any Action must be set forth to the Committee in writing and include the name of the Applicant or Complainant, as the case may be, and the circumstances giving rise to the initiation of the Action. The Executive Director, on behalf of the Association, or the Complainant, as the case may be, must be prepared


36 AAEP

to substantiate the grounds for pursuing the Action with sworn state-ments, witnesses or other evidence.Section 2.5: Suspension or revocation of AAEP membership is allowed in certain circumstances, as set forth below.

ARTICLE 3 PROCEDURES FOR EVALUATING AND PROVIDING NOTICE OF ACTIONSSection 3.1: An Applicant or Respondent in any Action shall receive a notice of the Action. This notice shall contain a copy of the materials giving rise to the Action, including the grounds on which it is based, and a statement to the Applicant or Respondent, as the case may be, that he or she has the right to file two copies of a written response with the Executive Director within 30 days of the date of the notice. The notice shall inform the Applicant or Respondent, as the case may be, that communication regarding the matter with members of the Committee or members of the Board of Directors is prohibited with the exception of the Executive Director and the Committee Chair as provided for in Article 7, Section 7.3 below. The notice shall also state that if Applicant or Respondent does not file a response, the charges may be taken as true by default. A response filed without objection by an Applicant or Respondent, as the case may be, shall constitute a waiver of any defect in the notice.Section 3.2: The Executive Director or his designee may pursue such investigation into the facts underlying the Action as may be reasonably necessary for the Committee to consider the merits and validity of the grounds for the Action.Section 3.3: If a Respondent files a response to a Complaint, the Executive Director shall deliver copies of the response to the Complainant. Section 3.4: After receipt of the response to a notice, or after no response is received within the time period prescribed, the Chairman shall submit the facts concerning the Action, including any response or additional instruments and information, to the Committee for review. Section 3.5: The Committee shall consider in its evaluation: (a) the rel-evancy of the charges as they apply to the objectives of the Association (Article II of the Articles of Incorporation); (b) the severity of the charges; (c) any evidence of rehabilitation; and (d) any other evidence or factors the Committee, in its discretion, deems relevant.Section 3.6: In the case of an Action concerning an Application Review, within 60 days of receipt of the Applicant’s response, or upon the end of the 30-day period set forth in Section 3.1 above if the Committee does not grant an extension, the Committee shall, by a majority vote, decide to either accept or deny the application for new membership or renewal of membership or refer it for a Hearing. In the case of an Action concerning a Complaint against a Member, within 60 days of receiving the Respondent’s response, or upon the end of the 30-day period set forth in Section 3.1 above, if the Committee does not grant an extension, the Committee shall, by majority vote, decide whether to dismiss the Complaint, take additional evidence, refer it for a Hearing, present the Respondent with a written proposal of findings in lieu of a Hearing, censure the Respondent or recommend Disciplinary Action.Section 3.7: Grounds for Revocation. The following shall serve as grounds for revocation of AAEP member-ship:a) Any applicant or member may be subject to denial of member-

ship, cancellation of membership or disciplinary action upon a two-thirds majority vote of the board of directors, exclud-ing the officers, pursuant to a recommendation to take such

action from the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee. However, no applicant or member shall be deprived of mem-bership without first being granted the opportunity to appeal the decision of the board of directors to the officers. Failure to appear before the officers at the time and place appointed by the officers will cause forfeiture of the right to appeal. Any decision taken by the officers shall be the final action that the association will take on this matter.

b) Examples of circumstances, which may constitute grounds for denial, cancellation of membership or disciplinary action include, but are not limited to: i) Failure to report action taken against the applicant’s/member’s veterinary or race track license by a regulatory agency or racing association on the American Association of Equine Practitioner’s membership application/renewal form; ii) Action against an applicant’s/member’s veterinary or race track license by a regulatory agen-cy or racing association in the form of fines, probation, suspen-sion or revocation; iii) Failure to report action taken against the applicant/member by organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and breed registries in relation to the prac-tice of veterinary medicine on the American Association of Equine Practitioners membership application/renewal form; iv) Action taken by organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and breed registries in relation to the practice of veterinary medicine; v) Acts of fraud, misrepresentation, deceit or animal cruelty; vi) Violations of the Ethical and Professional Guidelines of the association as recommended by the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee based on an application review or a complaint submitted by either another member in good standing or by the Executive Director; vii) Any other reason that the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee believes, in its discretion, warrants denial or cancel-lation of membership or other disciplinary action.

ARTICLE 4HEARINGS, REVOCATIONS, AND SUSPENSIONSSection 4.1: Any Applicant or Respondent, as the case may be, which the Committee has referred for a Hearing, shall receive a written notice of the Hearing.

Section 4.2: Notice of any Hearing shall designate the date, time and place of the Hearing. No Hearing shall be set for a date and time, which does not permit at least 60-days notice, unless agreed to by all Parties.

Section 4.3: Any notice of a Hearing shall provide that the Applicant, Complainant and/or Respondent, as the case may be, shall have the rights set forth in Section 4.8(a) through 4.8(d).

Section 4.4: Notice of any Hearing shall include the names of the mem-bers of the Committee and the Board of Directors of the Association and a prohibition against communication regarding the matter with members of the Committee or members of the Board of Directors with the exception of the Executive Director and the Committee Chair as provided for in Article 7, Section 7.3 below.

Section 4.5: The Applicant or Parties, as the case may be, shall notify the Executive Director within 30 days from the date the notice of Hearing was sent (a) whether they will attend the Hearing; (b) which of the rights set forth in Section 4.8(a) to 4.8(d) they intend to exercise during the Hearing, and (c) whether a transcript of the Hearing will be requested, pursuant to Article 7 Section 7.1.



Section 4.6: An appearance at a Hearing without objection by a Party shall constitute a waiver of any defect in the notice of that Hearing.

Section 4.7: The Applicant or Respondent, as the case may be, may seek a continuance of a scheduled Hearing by submitting a written request to the Committee. The Committee, in its discretion, may grant requests for continuances. In the event the Applicant, Parties or wit-nesses fail to appear at a duly designated Hearing without obtaining a continuance, the Committee may proceed with the Hearing and reach its decision based on the evidence made available at the Hearing, on any written materials and other evidence previously submitted to the Committee.

Section 4.8: At any Hearing before the Committee, the Applicant or Parties, as the case may be, have the right to the following:

(a) to have legal counsel present;

(b) to present any witnesses;

(c) to submit any evidence pertinent to the case; and

(d) to cross-examine witnesses of others.

The Committee may also have legal counsel present to advise it.

Section 4.9: Upon written request of a party or of the Committee, there shall be furnished before a Hearing a summary of any evidence antici-pated to be introduced at a Hearing, the names of any persons giving testimony and a summary of their expected testimony.

Section 4.10: The Chairman or his designee shall swear in, at the Committee’s discretion, any person giving oral testimony.

Section 4.11: Before permitting testimony relating to the character or general reputation of anyone, the Committee shall satisfy itself that the testimony has a direct bearing on the case at issue.Section 4.12: Hearings by the Committee need not be conducted pur-suant to the rules of evidence employed in formal court proceedings. The Committee may accept any evidence it deems appropriate.Section 4.13: In respect of any Hearing, any Applicant or Party, as the case may be, may file with the Chairman a written request to prevent a member of the Committee from participating in the Hearing. Such request must be filed at least 14 days before the Hearing is to be held and must state the grounds cited for disqualification. Disqualification will prohibit the Committee member from participating in any discus-sions, voting or being present during any Hearing on the Action, unless presenting testimony as a witness. If the Committee determines that, in its judgment, the member of the Committee should be disqualified, it is empowered to do so. In addition, the Committee may disqualify any member of the Committee from participating in a Hearing who it determines might not render an impartial decision. The Committee shall have the sole discretion to determine whether any member should be disqualified.Section 4.14: If the disqualification of a member of the Committee prevents the Committee from having sufficient numbers to conduct a Hearing under Section 4.7 above, the Chairman shall appoint a member of the Association to serve as a temporary member of the Committee for the purpose of conducting the Hearing.Section 4.15: When the AAEP is made aware of an action meriting grounds for revocation of an individual’s AAEP membership, pursuant to Section 3.7, a letter from the executive director shall be sent to the AAEP member, giving that member 30 days to respond, in case there has been a factual error. The committee shall review the response, may conduct a hearing or may recommend immediate suspension or revo-cation of membership, at their discretion, to the Board of Directors.Section 4.16: When the Ethics Committee becomes aware of a substan-tiated suspension, published notice, or notice by a breed association,

racing commission, or competition organization based on informa-tion available in the public domain that has resulted in a suspension, but does not rise to the level of a felony or revocation of a veterinary license, and after all remedies for appeal have been exhausted, a let-ter from the executive director shall be issued, giving the member 30 days to respond to the inquiry. The Committee shall review the response and determine whether or not a hearing is necessary in order for the committee to gather more information. If the member does not respond or does not respond within the specified time frame, the committee may make a recommendation to the Board for disciplinary action based on the information they have at hand. If an infraction for which a veterinarian is sanctioned is a monetary fine of $2,500 or greater, or they are given any suspension time, a letter of inquiry will be sent by the executive director requesting a response to the infraction. If a fine is less than $2,500, no action by the AAEP or Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee is required. Section 4.17: Most hearings occur at the Annual Convention; however, it is the wish of the Committee to address these issues with as much expediency as possible; therefore, the Committee may conduct a mid-year hearing (May 1-Sept 1), if needed, and upon approval by the Board of Directors. It is always preferrable that hearings be attended in person; however, if there are mitigating circumstances, hearings may be conducted by conference call or webcam at the discretion of the Committee and the Board of Directors. Hearings require a quorum of the Committee to be present, defined by a minimum of five members of the Committee and approved by a majority of the full Committee. Ideally, Committee members will participate in mid-year hearings on a rotating basis, with no member required to serve more than one mid-year hearing during their term on the Committee.

ARTICLE 5 DECISION OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT AND ETHICS COMMITTEESection 5.1: After all investigations, fact-finding procedures and/or Hearings deemed necessary by the Committee are concluded, no less than a quorum of members of the Committee shall participate in the review of the Action and shall recommend action. Section 5.2: The Committee shall vote only to recommend acceptance or denial of membership concerning an Application Review.Section 5.3: Concerning a Respondent in a Complaint, the Committee shall make one of the following recommendations: (a) to dismiss the Complaint,

(b) revoke or suspend the Respondent’s membership, or

(c) to take any other Disciplinary Action deemed appropriate by the Committee.

In determining its recommendation, the Committee may take into account previous offenses, which may have affected the Respondent in the past. Any decisions by the Committee must be reached by a majority vote.Section 5.4: The decision of the Committee shall be in writing and set forth the findings of fact and a statement of the action recommended. The decision of the Committee shall be filed with the Chairman, who shall submit the Committee’s recommendation to the Board for action as prescribed in the Bylaws Article IV Section 3(a). Section 5.5: The Board shall vote on the Committee’s recommendation within 90 days. The decision of the Board to deny, revoke, or suspend membership shall require a two-thirds majority.Section 5.6: Upon action by the Board, the Executive Director shall transmit the results to the Applicant or Parties within 30 days.


38 AAEP

Section 5.7: The Committee has the authority to accept an application or dismiss a complaint without a board vote.

ARTICLE 6 REHEARINGS OR APPEALSSection 6.1: Any Applicant or Respondent which was previously granted a hearing pursuant to Section 4 may, within 30 days of the date of notification of the Board’s decision, petition the Committee for a rehearing solely on the grounds of newly discovered evidence in which the Applicant or Respondent seeking the rehearing, in the exercise of reasonable diligence, could not have discovered and pro-duced at the original Hearing. The petition must be filed in writing with the Executive Director and the Executive Director shall deliver copies of the petition to each Party with notice that a written response may be filed with the Executive Director within 30 days of the notice. No more than one petition for rehearing may be filed by an Applicant or Respondent in a case.Section 6.2: A petition for rehearing shall be considered by the Committee at its next meeting. A decision to grant a petition for rehearing requires a majority vote of the Committee. The Executive Director shall immediately inform the Applicant or Parties, as the case may be, upon receipt of the Committee’s decision. In the event a rehearing is granted, the Petitioner will be given the opportunity for a new Hearing to be conducted as set forth in Article 4 above.Section 6.3: In matters not involving an initial hearing pursuant to Section 4, within 30 days of the date of notification of the Board’s decision, the Applicant or Respondent may submit to the Executive Director a written request for an appeal to the Officers, including rea-sons for appeal, pursuant to Section 6.6 below. Section 6.4: Any appeals should be heard at the next scheduled meeting of the Officers unless such meeting is within 30 days of the Applicant or Respondent’s request for an appeal, in which case the appeal shall be heard at the next meeting of the Officers.Section 6.5: Only those Officers who have not previously reviewed the application/Complaint as a member of the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee may participate in the appeal. The President shall serve as Chair of the proceedings. Section 6.6: Any Party to an appeal may file with the Chair a writ-ten request to prevent an Officer from participating in the appeal. Such request must be filed at least 14 days before the appeal is to be considered and must state the grounds cited for disqualification. Disqualification will prohibit the Officer from participating in any discussions, voting or being present during any consideration of the appeal, unless presenting testimony as a witness. If the Officers determine that, in their judgment, the Officer should be disqualified, it is empowered to do so. In addition, the Officers may disqualify any Officer from participating in a Hearing who they determine might not render an impartial decision. The Officers shall have the sole discretion to determine whether any member should be disqualified.Section 6.7: The Officers may only review the record pertaining to the Board’s decision to consider whether that decision was inappropriate because of (1) material errors of fact or (2) failure to conform to pub-lished criteria, policies or procedures.Section 6.8: The Officers shall, by a majority vote, decide either to accept or reject the decision of the Board.Section 6.9: The Officers shall conduct and complete its review and render a final determination within 180 days after receipt of the request for an appeal. The Executive Director or his designee shall mail the Officers’ determination to the Applicant or Respondent.

Section 6.10: Any decision of the Officers is final. In the event the decision of the Officers is challenged in a court of law, the Officers’ decision is to be given great deference and shall not be reversed absent a finding that such decision was arbitrary and capricious. Section 6.11: As it relates to an appeals process, the record of any Hearing conducted pursuant to Article 4 is defined as the transcript and/or any evidence introduced during that Hearing.Section 6.12: Reinstatement of a suspended or revoked AAEP member-ship requires a petition for reinstatement, and, at the discretion of the Committee, may require a hearing before the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee. Reinstatement of AAEP membership is not allowed until the individual has satisfied the terms of the action which prompted the AAEP suspension/revocation.Section 6.13: AAEP membership shall be automatically reinstated if any conviction, judgment or revocation is set aside upon final appeal in any court of competent jurisdiction.

ARTICLE 7 GENERAL PROVISIONSSection 7.1: In any proceeding, a transcript may be made of the pro-ceeding at the request of the Committee or any party to the proceeding. Costs associated with producing the transcript shall be borne by the party or parties making the request.Section 7.2: Any notice required to be given or paper required to be filed may be given or filed in any manner, whether by personal service, via facsimile or by registered mail addressed to recipient’s last known mailing address; if mailed, notice shall be deemed given on the date the correspondence was mailed.Section 7.3: All communications regarding an Action and any Hearing held thereon shall be directed to the Executive Director or the Executive Director’s designee. The Chairman or designee shall preside over any Hearing before the Committee and shall render any assistance to the parties that the Committee deems appropriate, which may include furnishing required forms and papers, receiving and filing all documents or other papers and receiving all fees and disbursing all money that may be payable to the Association.Section 7.4: All facts and materials associated with a given Action will be treated by the Committee as confidential to the greatest extent prac-ticable. The Committee reserves the right to use the general premise of the case as an educational tool for the membership in, but not limited to, the Association’s publications so long as the parties are not specifi-cally named and the particulars of the case are presented in a general fashion. Following the review of an Action by the Committee and, as appropriate, the review of an appeal by the Officers, each member of the Committee and Officers, as the case may be, will return to the Executive Director all materials in his or her possession pertaining to the Action.Section 7.5: All applications, Complaints, responses, records or evi-dence may be maintained by the Association and may be utilized by the Executive Director in all proceedings pertaining to any subsequent applications or Complaints.Section 7.6: All interpretations of these rules shall be made in accor-dance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Section 7.7: Any dispute regarding these rules, or any action take here-under by the Committee, the Executive Director, the Officers, or any other person, party or entity shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdic-tion of the courts of Fayette County, Kentucky.



ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWSA m e r i c a n A s s o c i a t i o n o f E q u i n e P r a c t i t i o n e r s

ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION AND BYLAWS

ARTICLE I – TITLESection 1

This association shall be known as the American Association of Equine Practitioners. It is incorporated under the laws of the General Not-for-Profit Corporation Act of the State of Illinois.

Section 2This association shall forever remain a not-for-profit organization in

fact, and its officers shall comply with the laws of the State in which the association is incorporated.

ARTICLE II – OBJECTSThe objectives of this association shall be to improve the health and

welfare of the horse, to further the professional development of its members, and to provide resource and leadership for the benefit of the equine industry.

ARTICLE III – MEMBERSHIPSection 1

Active membership in the association shall be open to all veterinar-ians who are graduates of a college or school of veterinary medicine or licensed in good standing to practice veterinary medicine.

Section 2Other categories of membership may be established by the board

of directors as set forth in the bylaws.

ARTICLE IV – OFFICERSSection 1

The officers of this association shall be a President, a President-elect, a Vice President, a Treasurer, an Immediate Past President and an Executive Director. The officers shall serve as voting members of the board of directors, with the exception of the Executive Director who serves as a non-voting officer.

Section 2The method of election, duties and tenure of office shall be defined

in the bylaws.

ARTICLE V – BOARD OF DIRECTORSSection 1

The board of directors shall conduct the business of the associa-tion, shall have charge of its property and financial affairs, including publications, and shall perform such other duties as prescribed by the bylaws.

Section 2The membership of the board of directors, the method of selection

or appointment, duties and tenure of office shall be defined in the bylaws.

ARTICLE VI – STANDING AND AD HOC COMMITTEES AND WORKING GROUPS

Standing and ad hoc committees, and other working groups, may be established by resolutions of the board of directors. The duties, membership and duration of each committee shall be set forth in said resolution.

ARTICLE VII – MEETINGSRegular or annual meetings of the association shall be held as

described in the bylaws.

ARTICLE VIII – AMENDMENTSThese Articles of Incorporation can be amended only by a majority

vote of the voting members present at a meeting of the association, provided the proposed amendment has been submitted to the board of directors and presented in writing to the membership at least sixty days prior to the meeting.

BYLAWS

ARTICLE I – ELECTION OF OFFICERSSection 1

Eligibility: Only active members of the association who have com-pleted a term on the board of directors are eligible to hold office.

Section 2The Nominating Committee will prepare and present a slate of one

or more nominees for the offices of Vice President and Treasurer for the board of directors at a meeting of the board of directors.

Section 3Election of Officers: The Vice President and Treasurer will be

elected by majority vote of the board of directors. If two or more nominations are made and no candidate receives a majority of the votes cast on the first ballot, the two candidates receiving the greatest number of votes will be balloted upon again. Once elected, the Vice President automatically assumes, in order, the office of President-elect, President and Immediate Past President in subsequent years at the time of annual elections.

Section 4Tenure: Terms of office shall begin at the close of the annual meet-

ing and shall continue until the close of the next annual meeting or until successors to the offices have been duly elected and installed. The term of office for the Treasurer will be three years.

40 AAEP

ARTICLE II – DUTIES OF OFFICERSSection 1

The duties of the President shall be:

(a) To preside at regular and special meetings of the association.

(b) To coordinate and supervise activities of the association, including liaisons.

(c) To administer responsibility for the balloting at the regular elections.

Section 2The duties of the President-elect shall be:

(a) To preside at regular and special meetings of the association in the absence of the President.

(b) To serve as chair of the scientific and educational programs for the annual convention.

(c) To assume the duties of the office of President in the event that the President is incapable of performing these duties or the office is vacated.

Section 3The duties of the Vice President shall be:

(a) To assist the President-elect in all duties as requested.

(b) To assume the duties of the office of President-elect in the event that the President-elect is incapable of performing these duties or the office is vacated.

Section 4The duties of the Treasurer shall be:

(a) To act as custodian of all the assets of the association.

(b) To hold the Executive Director responsible for:

i) disbursing monies from the general fund;

ii) paying all expenses of the association subject to the direc-tion of the board of directors;

iii) maintaining a file of all vouchers and invoices accompany-ing them for a period of not less than five years;

iv) depositing all monies in the name of the association in an institution approved by the board of directors.

(c) To invest reserve funds in accordance with policy established by the board of directors.

(d) To turn over all funds, properties under his custodianship and records to a successor.

(e) To make a detailed report of the financial status of the associa-tion at each scheduled meeting of the board of directors, and at such other times as the board of directors may request.

(f) To serve as chair of the Finance and Audit Committee.

Section 5The Executive Director shall be the chief administrative officer of

the association. The duties shall be:

(a) To act as custodian of the records of the association, including membership records.

(b) To preside at regular and special meetings of the association in the absence of the President, President-elect and Vice President.

(c) To conduct the correspondence of the Association and notify members of all meetings.

(d) To serve as Secretary of the board of directors and to be responsible for recording and certifying the minutes of all busi-

ness meetings of the general membership and all meetings of the board of directors.

(e) To serve as Assistant Treasurer of the board of directors, ex-officio member of the Finance and Audit Committee and to be responsible for the financial records of the Association and for all receipts and disbursements. All vouchers and invoices accompanying them will be maintained for not less than a period of five years.

(f) To execute the financial policies of the association, as defined by the board of directors, with the concurrence of the Treasurer and Finance and Audit Committee, including depos-it of all monies in the name of the association in an institution approved by the board of directors.

(g) To be responsible for the implementation of public and profes-sional relations.

(h) To keep the Corporate Seal, and to execute those documents requiring the signature of the corporate secretary.

Section 6The duties of the Immediate Past President shall be: (a) To assist the incoming President in transition into that office.(b) To serve as chairman of the President’s Advisory Council.

ARTICLE III – BOARD OF DIRECTORSSection 1

Before the 2013 Annual Meeting, the number of directors shall be eighteen (18) five of whom shall be officers (except the executive director) and thirteen (13) at-large. After the 2013 Annual Meeting and prior to the 2014 Annual Meeting, the number of directors of the association shall be sixteen (16), five of whom shall be the offi-cers (except the executive director) and eleven (11) at-large. After the 2014 Annual Meeting, the number of directors of the association shall be fourteen (14), five of whom shall be the officers (except the executive director) and nine at-large. After the 2015 Annual Meeting, the number of directors of the association shall be twelve (12), five of whom shall be the officers (except the executive director) and seven at-large. None of the terms of the directors elected to serve through 2015 shall be shortened by the amendment to this bylaw. The direc-tors elected to represent Districts prior to the 2014 Annual Meeting shall be considered at-large directors. No elections shall be held for at-large directors until 2013.

The terms of the at-large directors shall be staggered such that approximately one-third of the at-large directors shall come up for election each year. For the avoidance of doubt, (1) two at-large direc-tors shall come up for election in 2013, (3) three at-large directors shall come up for election in 2014 and (2) two at-large directors shall come up for election in 2015. Unless an at-large director resigns, each at-large director shall serve for a term of three (3) years and until the director’s successor has been elected and qualified. The at-large direc-tors are to be elected by the active members of the association, either by mail or electronic ballot, following preparation of a candidate slate by the Nominating Committee, in accordance with the schedule set forth above. In the event of a tie in an at-large director election, the Nominating Committee will present a slate of two candidates, or more if required, to the board within 30 days after the balloting deadline and the sitting directors will elect the at-large director.

Should a vacancy occur on the board of directors before comple-tion of a term, for any reason, the board of directors shall instruct the Nominating Committee to propose two replacement directors, from which the board of directors will elect one to fulfill the unexpired




term. Under these circumstances, this special election can occur at any regular or special meeting of the board of directors.

Section 2The officers who are also board members are elected as set forth

in Article I. The terms of officers on the board of directors shall be coincident with their terms as officers.

Section 3Duties:

(a) The board of directors is the governing body that establishes direction, sets policy and provides leadership oversight. The property, affairs and fiduciary health of the association shall be managed and controlled by the board of directors.

(b) The board of directors may conduct meetings in person, via telephone, or electronic communication, whichever the board of directors in its discretion deems is most appropriate, pro-vided all members of the board of directors have the required access.

(c) The board of directors shall ensure that the association has a viable strategic plan, monitor its implementation and ensure that expenditures support the association’s strategic objectives and missions.

(d) The board of directors shall provide direction, empowerment and oversight to association staff and volunteer committees.

Section 4Compensation and Liability:

Members of the board of directors shall not receive compensation for their services but may be reimbursed for travel and other expenses incurred in transacting association business. The association may, by resolution of the board of directors, provide for indemnifica-tion by the association or any and all of its directors or officers or former directors or officers against expenses actually and necessarily incurred by them in connection with the defense of any action, suit or proceedings in which they or any of them are made parties, by reason of having been directors or officers of the association, except in relation to matters as to which such director or officer or former director or officer shall be adjudged in such action, suit or proceed-ings to be liable for negligence or misconduct in the performance of duty and to such matters as shall be settled by agreement predicated on the existence of such liability.

ARTICLE IV – MEMBERSHIPSection 1

Membership CategoriesThese categories of membership in the association are established:A. Active Members:

(a) Regular Member: A graduate from a college or school of veterinary medicine or licensed in good standing to practice veterinary medicine.

(b) Distinguished Life Member: Any member nominated by another member of the association, recommended by the Nominating Committee, and approved by the board of directors.

(c) Honor Roll Member: Any member who has attained the age of 70 with 40 years of AAEP membership.

B. Other Membership Categories: Student Member: Any student enrolled in a college of

veterinary medicine with an expressed interest in the equine species.

Section 2Dues and Voting:The board of directors shall establish dues for each category of

membership and may grant reductions or exemptions from payment of dues under special circumstances. The Executive Director shall mail a dues notice to each dues paying member. Dues in arrears more than three months shall cause cancellation of membership. Only active members shall have the privilege of voting.

Section 3Disciplinary Proceedings:(a) Any applicant or member may be subject to denial of member-

ship, cancellation of membership or disciplinary action upon a two-thirds majority vote of the board of directors, excluding the officers, pursuant to a recommendation to take such action from the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee. However, no applicant or member shall be deprived of membership without first being granted the opportunity to appeal the decision of the board of directors to the officers. Failure to appear before the officers at the time and place appointed by the officers will cause forfeiture of the right to appeal. Any decision taken by the officers shall be the final action that the association will take on this matter.

(b) Examples of circumstances, which may constitute grounds for denial, cancellation of membership or disciplinary action include, but are not limited to:

i) Failure to report action taken against the applicant’s/mem-ber’s veterinary or race track license by a regulatory agency or racing association on the American Association of Equine Practitioner’s membership application/renewal form;

ii) Action against an applicant’s/member’s veterinary or race track license by a regulatory agency or racing association in the form of fines, probation, suspension or revocation;

iii) Failure to report action taken against the applicant/mem-ber by organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and breed registries in relation to the practice of veterinary medicine on the American Association of Equine Practitioners membership application/renewal form;

iv) Action taken by organizations governing horse shows, sales, equine events and breed registries in relation to the practice of veterinary medicine;

v) Acts of fraud, misrepresentation, deceit or animal cruelty;

vi) Violations of the Ethical and Professional Guidelines of the association as recommended by the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee based on an application review or a complaint submitted by either another member in good standing or by the Executive Director;

vii) Any other reason that the Professional Conduct and Ethics Committee believes, in its discretion, warrants denial or can-cellation of membership or other disciplinary action.

Section 4Distinguished Life Members:

Members who have made outstanding contributions to the associa-tion over their career may be nominated for this honor by members of the association, to be considered by the Nominating Committee for recommendation to the board of directors.

42 AAEP

Section 5Honor Roll Member: Members who have reached the age of 70 years and have main-

tained a record of 40 years of membership shall be designated Honor Roll Members. Honor Roll Members shall be exempt from payment of dues.

Section 6Waiver of Dues: The board of directors may excuse the following members from payment of dues:

(a) A member for whom the payment of dues would be a financial hardship by reason of physical disability or illness.

(b) Retired status will be granted to requesting individuals who have been AAEP members for a period of at least ten years and who are no longer employed in the practice of veterinary medi-cine. This is not to be confused with Honor Roll status, which is complimentary full membership for 40-plus year members. Retired status entitles the member to a significant reduction in dues. Members requesting this category will receive regular communication of member news and the right to purchase other AAEP products and services at member rates.

(c) A member who certifies permanent disability and can no lon-ger engage in veterinary activity as a fulltime occupation.

(d) A member who the board of directors determines should be granted dues-exempt status because of extenuating circumstances.

ARTICLE V – ASSOCIATION MEETINGSSection 1

The place, date and duration of the annual association meeting shall be decided by the board of directors.

Section 2Quorum: The membership present at a duly called annual asso-

ciation meeting shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business.

Section 3Special meetings of the association may be called upon a majority

vote of the board of directors, or upon petition of a majority of the active members. Notice of such special meetings, and their purpose, shall be given to all members at least 30 days before they are to be held. The business of a special meeting shall be limited to the purpose for which it is called.

ARTICLE VI – COMMITTEESSection 1

The President-elect, in consultation with the board of directors or officers, shall appoint the members of all committees for the coming year, shall designate the chair of each committee, and the board of directors shall delineate the duties of each commit-tee. Members shall serve for a term of three years and may be reappointed.

(a) Tenure of the committee chair shall be limited to three years regardless of the number of years served as a committee mem-ber. Eligibility for reappointment is the same as the committee membership.

(b) A committee, established and appointed by the board or President, shall develop a list of appointees for recommendation

to the President-elect prior to the annual meeting with appoint-ments to be made by the annual meeting. Committee member terms officially begin immediately after the annual meeting.

(c) Each chair is required to submit a written report to the board of directors after each Annual Convention that reflects continuous attention to the committee’s area of responsibil-ity throughout the previous year. Reports should include: (1) date(s) of committee meetings, (2) names of members attend-ing, (3) names of members absent, (4) information worthy of distributing to AAEP members, (5) any guests in attendance, and (6) actions and programs recommended for board of directors consideration. The board may request more frequent reporting, as needed.

Section 2In addition to the Finance and Audit Committee of the board,

there shall be a Nominating Committee and the President’s Advisory Council as described hereunder as well as standing committees, coun-cils, ad hoc committees, or task forces, as established by the board of directors.

Finance and Audit Committee:The duties and responsibilities include: To review the finances for both the AAEP and The Foundation for the Horse and to make recommendations to the board on achieving board-defined financial goals along with funding strategies to achieve them; to review and make recommendations to the board on financial policy and budgets taking into account investment performance, economic conditions and other factors that may impact short- and long-term financial stability; to develop budgeting projections with staff, for both the AAEP and its Foundation, that integrate the strategic plan and other initiatives; to approve the budget within the finance committee for submission to the board; to make recommendations on board appropriations and capital expenditures; and to conduct semi-annual review with investment advisor(s). Additionally, the committee will ensure an accounting firm is selected for an annual audit or review of both the AAEP and its Foundation with results reviewed by the committee prior to presentation to the AAEP board.

Committee membership to include:• The current Treasurer shall serve as chair of the committee

during his/her term

• The Immediate Past Treasurer (one-year term)

• The Immediate Past President

• The Vice President

• One board member, elected by the board

• The Chair of the Foundation Advisory Council

These individuals will serve for the duration of their time in their respective positions within the organization. The board may add up to two additional individuals to serve in an advisory capacity. These positions will be ex-officio (non-voting) and shall serve a term of one year; however, can be re-appointed for up to two additional terms at the discretion of the board.

Nominating Committee:The duties and responsibilities include: To develop a slate of can-

didates for the offices of Vice President and Treasurer, to develop a slate of candidates for vacancies on the board of directors; to develop a slate of candidates for all of the AAEP’s awards. With the President,


the Nominating Committee will be responsible for the election pro-cess for members of the board of directors. Committee membership to include: The Past President whose term has most recently expired from the board of directors will serve as chair. Additional members shall include the two most recent Past Presidents, two at-large mem-bers (2-year terms appointed by the President), and two board mem-bers (2-year terms elected by the board of directors).

President’s Advisory Council:The duties and responsibilities include: To study specific problems

referred by the President and other matters that might affect the future of the association or the equine veterinary profession, and to report its findings and recommendations to the President. Council membership to include: All Past Presidents of the association.

Standing Committees and Councils:Standing committees or councils are to be established, modified

and dissolved by resolution of the board of directors. Each resolution

shall define the duties, composition, tenure and reporting require-ments of each standing committee or council.

Ad Hoc Committees, Task Forces and Working Groups:The board of directors, or the officers, may establish task forces

and other working groups, by resolution setting forth the duties, composition, tenure, and reporting requirements of each.

ARTICLE VII – AMENDMENTSThese bylaws may be amended at any annual meeting of the

association by a majority vote of the members present, provided that the proposed amendment is made available to the membership in advance of the meeting, unless otherwise required by Illinois law.

44 AAEP

4033 Iron Works Parkway • Lexington, Kentucky 40511 (859) 233-0147 • (859) 233-1968 fax • aaep.org