Veterinary cover at point-to-points and horseraces.

Abstract: The British Horseracing Authority and the Point-to-Point Authority value the veterinary cover provided by the profession at horseraces and point-to-points. There are a number of requirements for those providing veterinary cover to ensure suitable experience and training. We would like to draw the attention of colleagues to two changes to the implementation of these requirements. First, in line with the requirements for those attending racecourses, the two suitably experienced veterinary surgeons required to attend point-to-points must both have attended a casualty management course by December 2009, and then again every five years. Such a course is organised annually by the Association of Racecourse Veterinary Surgeons. The next course will be held on December 9, 2008, in Warwick, and further details can be found at www.arvs.org.uk. Secondly, veterinary surgeons providing cover at racecourses and point-to-points must self-certify each year that they meet all the requirements for experience and training. The self-certification form can be downloaded from www.britishhorseracing.com/inside_horseracing/about/whatwedo/veterinary/veterinary_certificates.asp