The AVMA has endorsed the American Association of Equine Practitioners' position statement on therapeutic medications in nonracing performance horses.

The AVMA did not have a position on using therapeutic drugs in nonracing, performance horses. The AAEP requested that the AVMA endorse its position statement.

Included in the statement, the AAEP recognizes that various performance horse disciplines have differing regulations concerning medication guidelines. AAEP members are urged to abide by these regulations and to work with governing bodies to develop and enforce such regulations.

In addition, the AAEP believes that all veterinarians should follow a judicious, prudent, and ethical decision-making process concerning the medication of horses.

Before recommending Executive Board approval, the AVMA Animal Welfare Committee requested input from the Council on Biologic and Therapeutic Agents, which supported the committee's endorsement.