The Office of Racing Commissioner ORC has strict medications and drug policies. The ORC General Rule 431.1301 Medications and Drugs gives a full description of the illegal and foreign substances that are banned in Michigan as well as the time limitations for administering them.

Your horse's health and well being is just as important to us as it is to you. Besides prescribed medications and remedies, there is a multitude of over-the-counter products found in equine catalogues and websites designed especially for horses to improve stamina or some quick cure to an ailment. These products include joint supplements, relaxers, cough cures, energy boosters, painkillers and bleeding therapies. Many of these can be beneficial to your horse's vitality and his health.

However, there are a number of these products that do not list their ingredients. Although these balms, pastes and syringes carry claims they will not be detected in drug tests it is your responsibility as the trainer to know what the ingredients are in the medications you are giving your horses. Remember, herbal remedies and natural care products may also contain substances that are prohibited from racing.

It is our recommendation that if you are using these products to purchase them from a reputable vendor who can tell you all of the ingredients and quantities in these items. As well, consult with a qualified veterinarian when adding these supplements and medications into your horse's regime to make sure your horse is getting the proper care his needs.