Last October, we began our Out of Competition testing program which has allowed us to further protect the integrity of horse racing here in Michigan, through the prohibition and control of all drugs and foreign substances. In January of this year the Commissioner issued an Executive Order updating our policies against the use/or possession of both Erythropoietin (EPO) and Darbepoietin (DarbEPO) at the tracks and training facilities. The Commissioner and our veterinarians have been working with national associations and other jurisdictions to create a formal policy of steroid use here in Michigan. And our efforts will continue to be strong in this area of racing.

We recognize that there are numerous over the counter products being sold at tack shops and over the internet that spout certain claims including non-positive test results. However, it is your responsibility to know what the ingredients are of any product given to your horse. In fact, herbal remedies and natural care products may also contain substances that are prohibited from racing.

In addition to any over the counter balms, pastes, syringes and/or supplements, it is required that any prescription drugs be properly labeled. The ORC Administrative Rules, R. 431.1301, section (12), states that a person may not have in his or her possession, on the grounds of a licensed race meeting / race track or at a farm or training facility where horses are stabled, any drug or foreign substance otherwise permitted under state or federal law.

With regard to prescription labeling, the Michigan Office of Racing Commissioner adheres to federal and state laws pertaining to prescription medications. That is, all prescription medications must be labeled by a licensed veterinarian with a professional label that is securely attached. The label must clearly show the all of the following:
a. the name of the product
b. the name, address and phone number of the veterinarian prescribing or dispensing the product
c. the name of each horse that the medication is prescribed
d. the dose, dosage and duration of the treatment and expiration date of the prescription
e. the name of the person (trainer) to whom the product was dispensed
f. and withdrawal times, where applicable.