Copyright 2009 WHR
Editor's Note: The following enhanced procedures will be discussed at the VMO/DQP Joint Training Sessiong to be held January 31, 2009 at the Calsonic Arena in Shelbyville, Tenn.
The Walking Horse Report recently contacted Dr. Rachel Cezar, Horse Protection National Coordinator, with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) regarding her presentation to the Horse Industry Organizations (HIO) of the enhanced 2009 inspection procedures.
Dr. Cezar originally presented these ideas to the HIOs at the HIO meeting in December in Washington D.C. Much discussion has followed since that time regarding the feasibility of some of the enhanced procedures.
The Walking Horse Report asked Dr. Cezar several questions regarding these procedures. Dr. Cezar did confirm that these are in effect beginning with the 2009 show season. She also confirmed that all HIOs, regardless if they are signatories to the Operating Plan will be required to follow these procedures.
When asked if these would be required at shows only attended by the USDA VMOs, Cezar confirmed that DQPs would enforce these procedures whether the USDA was in attendance or not.
The Walking Horse Report also asked how thermography and digital radiography would be used and would this technology have any penalties associated with it. Cezar replied, "Thermography and digital radiography will be additional diagnostic tools used to determine if a horse is in violation of the HPA (Horse Protection Act)."
Click below to view the presentations. The new procedure in the document is followed up with the supporting portions of the Horse Protection regulations and Horse Protection Act.
Presentation 1
Presentation 2