The following announcement is from Dr. Rachel Cezar with the USDA regarding the upcoming scar rule clinic to be held at The Celebration on April 4, 2009.

Hello HIOs:

Please share with all that there will be a Scar Rule Clinic at the Celebration Showgrounds in Shelbyville, TN on April 4, 2009.

Starting time: 9:00 a.m.
Ending time:  4:00 p.m.

USDA APHIS Veterinary Medical Officers will present an overview of the Horse Protection Act and regulations, as well as lead a focused discussion about the inspection process and the scar rule.  Attendees are encouraged to bring horses for evaluation of compliance with the scar rule.  The duration of the clinic will be driven by the attendees' questions and discussion, as well as the number of horses presented for evaluation.

This educational event is not a public exhibition of horses, so there is no risk of any participants' being cited for violations of the Horse Protection Act nor regulations.  If you plan to attend, please RSVP by April 1st with your name, the number of people and horses you'll be bringing to Dr. Rachel Cezar at rachel.cezar@aphis.usda.gov or 301-734-5784.  Please note, a limit of 50 horses will be evaluated.