September 30, 2024 (Lexington, KY) – The Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) has established a Veterinary Advisory Committee that will be made up of regulatory and private practice racetrack veterinarians from around the nation. The committee will provide feedback to HISA’s executive team and standing committees on the implementation and evolution of HISA’s regulations and protocols related to veterinary care, medication, racetrack safety, equine research and other relevant issues.
“I look forward to the essential perspectives the HISA Veterinary Advisory Committee will bring as we continue to evolve and fulfill our mandate,” said HISA CEO Lisa Lazarus. “The veterinarians who care for equine athletes day in and day out are critical to our collective efforts to surround horses with an ecosystem of care, and their on-the-ground insights will make us smarter and more effective."
“By integrating the expertise of veterinarians across the country, we aim to continue developing and refining best practices that prioritize the health and well-being of equine athletes,” added Dr. Jennifer Durenberger, HISA Director of Equine Safety and Welfare. “Our goal is to ensure that every decision we make is grounded in science and reflects the latest feedback from the veterinarians who work with these remarkable horses every day.”
HISA is currently seeking qualified veterinarians to serve on the Veterinary Advisory Committee. The committee will consist of both regulatory and attending veterinarians from diverse professional backgrounds and geographies, ensuring a broad representation of perspectives. The group will be expected to meet monthly to provide feedback to HISA’s leadership.
Interested candidates are invited to submit an application (available <a href="https://bphisaweb.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/HISA-Veterinary-Committee-Application.pdf">HERE</a>) to Dr. Shari Silverman at <a href="mailto:shari.silverman@hisaus.org">shari.silverman@hisaus.org</a> with the subject line “VAC Application” by October 25, 2024.
Veterinarians committed to equine welfare with an interest in shaping the future of safety and integrity in Thoroughbred racing are encouraged to apply.