Implementation and enforcement of federal regulations of shoeing at Thoroughbred racetracks in the U.S. will be delayed until August 1, the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority told American Farriers Journal.
HISA also confirmed clarification of the shoeing regulations, which previously were set to take effect July 1.
“The delayed enforcement date is to allow shoe manufacturers to have sufficient time to ensure adequate inventory for compliance,” Dr. Susan Stover, chair of HISA's Racetrack Safety Committee, told the publication.
Some members of the farrier industry have expressed a number of concerns over the regulations.
“The rules have also drawn criticism from some within the farrier industry over their vague language, the universal application on all Thoroughbred racetracks, as well as the short time frame for manufacturers and distributors to fill a large inventory void,” wrote Jeff Cota of American Farriers Journal.
The new shoeing rules, which can be found on Page 27, Section 2276 of the HISA Racetrack Safety Program, are brief and focus solely on traction devices. Toe grabs are prohibited.
According a survey conducted by American Farriers Journal, 58% of respondents said they disapproved of the mandated shoeing rules while 42% approved. Much of the opposition is due to blanket application of the rules while offering no flexibility for such variables as climates, track surfaces, or horses.
To read more at americanfarrier.com, click here.
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