Commission Veterinarians and Testing Assistants

COMMISSION VETERINARIANS

The Commission Veterinarians play an indispensable function in ensuring that the quality and integrity of racing within the Commonwealth remains strong.  This is accomplished by the veterinarians overseeing implementation of the drug program for racing animals in the Commonwealth, and by testifying at Commission hearings on matters relative to drug and medication use in animals.  Additionally, they monitor the Lasix and Bute programs for horses racing in the Commonwealth.  The veterinarians are responsible for tracking the condition of each horse and greyhound racing in the Commonwealth.  They work closely with the Testing Assistants in the collection of samples obtained from racing animals.  The Racing Commission in consort with the Tufts University Veterinary School conducted a review of medication guidelines relative to the use of drugs in animals.  These guidelines were adopted by the Commission in 1997.

COMMISSION TESTING ASSISTANTS

Testing Assistants are the technicians responsible for securing, sealling, and documenting samples obtained from racing animals, designated by the Stewards and Judges, to be tested.  Testing Assistants maintain sample logs and reports that reinforce the chain of evidence hat begins at the finish line and ends when the Commission Laboratory reports the results.

The methods and procedures initiated by the Testing Assistants enable the Commission Laboratory to conduct its procedures with the confidence that samples they receive are secure and intact and that the Laboratory's results will not be nullified by errors occuring outside the lab.