North American Association of Racetrack Veterinarians

The North American Association of Racetrack Veterinarians (NAARV) is a professional organization dedicated to the advancement of equine veterinary medicine, particularly concerning racehorses. Established in 2015 and headquartered in Kentucky, NAARV operates as a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, focusing on the health and welfare of racehorses through evidence-based medicine and the continuing education of veterinary professionals, owners, and the public involved in the sport.

Mission and Goals

NAARV's primary mission is to ensure the health and well-being of racehorses by enhancing veterinary care standards and practices for equine athletes. The organization aims to:

• Promote evidence-based veterinary practices.
• Enhance the continuing education of veterinarians specializing in racetrack medicine.
• Advocate for the interests and welfare of racehorses and their caretakers.

The organization represents racetrack veterinarians across all U.S. jurisdictions, where members are licensed by both state veterinary agencies and racing commissions. This support structure allows NAARV to address issues affecting its members and the horses they care for effectively.

Membership

Membership in NAARV is open to licensed veterinarians who specialize in racetrack medicine. Members benefit from access to resources that promote best practices in veterinary treatment and care, with a strong emphasis on ethical standards and professional development. As of its inception, NAARV has cultivated a network of practitioners across 35 states, supporting over 75 racetracks.

Advocacy and Legislative Engagement

NAARV plays a significant role in advocating for racetrack veterinarians and racehorse welfare at legislative levels. The organization has actively participated in discussions regarding the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA), highlighting concerns about its regulatory framework and its potential impact on veterinary practice. NAARV asserts that the current legislation can hinder veterinarians’ ability to provide quality care due to unclear regulations regarding prohibited substances and treatment protocols.

In its advocacy efforts, NAARV has been involved in filing amicus briefs in various legal proceedings to express the interests and concerns of its members regarding regulations that could affect the rights and responsibilities of racetrack veterinarians.

Continuing Education and Resources

To support its members, NAARV emphasizes the importance of continual learning and development in veterinary practices. The organization provides educational resources, including workshops, seminars, and online platforms to facilitate ongoing professional growth.

Through these initiatives, NAARV seeks to enhance the overall standard of care for racehorses, ensuring that veterinarians remain informed about the latest scientific research and veterinary techniques relevant to equine athletes.

Conclusion

The North American Association of Racetrack Veterinarians stands as a pivotal entity within the equine veterinary community, promoting the unique health needs of racehorses and supporting its members through advocacy, education, and professional development. Its commitment to evidence-based practices and ethical veterinary care underscores its critical role in the well-being of equine athletes across North America.