The Maritime Provinces Harness Racing Commission (MPHRC) is issuing this statement in the interest of transparency following a comprehensive barn search conducted at Red Shores Charlottetown on Saturday, January 24.
MPHRC investigators completed a thorough, six-hour inspection of all barns on the grounds. This initiative was undertaken to ensure compliance with the Commission’s medication and welfare rules and to reinforce the importance of consistent best practices across the industry.
As a result of the search, minor infractions of Rule 383 were identified in the stables of twelve licensees.
It is important to emphasize that these matters were primarily housekeeping and administrative in nature, not performance-enhancing drug violations. While a lengthy list of infractions may appear concerning at first glance, the vast majority arose from routine barn-management oversights or a lack of awareness of the precise requirements of the Rules of Racing, rather than any intent to gain a competitive advantage.
At the time of the search, a significant number of horses—particularly two-year-olds in training—were experiencing seasonal illness. This was a common theme across many stables. As a result, investigators encountered prescribed injectable medications that had been issued by licensed veterinarians for legitimate therapeutic purposes.
Rule 383, however, strictly prohibits the presence of injectables, syringes, or related devices in barn areas unless prior written permission has been obtained from the Commission. Trainers are permitted to have such medications on-site when approval is secured in advance. In addition, after treatment, used needles may be disposed of in the locked sharps containers provided in each barn, which is explicitly permitted under the Rule. Trainers and veterinarians may request the required written permission at any time by emailing records@mphrc.ca.
In these instances, the trainers either did not contact the Commission or were unaware that this approval process existed.
The Commission views these outcomes as an opportunity for education across the industry. They underscore the importance of licensees maintaining a current understanding of the Rules of Racing. In many cases, the availability of prior written authorization under Rule 383 would have avoided the penalties that were imposed.
MPHRC takes horse welfare seriously and remains committed to fair, consistent, and transparent regulation. Proactive inspections, education, and open communication are essential to maintaining public confidence and safeguarding the well-being of the horse.
For reference, the relevant provisions include:
Rule 383
No person except physicians, Commission Veterinarians or Official Veterinarians or veterinarians licensed by the Commission shall have in their possession while on the grounds of a track facility:
- Any hypodermic needle or device which could be used for the injection or infusion into a horse of any substance, or any injectable, without first securing written permission from the Judges or Director of Racing.
- Used needles and syringes within locked sharps containers will not be considered a violation.
Rule 384
The Director of Racing or persons authorized by him may enter and search buildings, stables, vehicles, and other places on the grounds for the purpose of examining and seizing personal property.
Rule 385
By participating, licensees consent to such searches and to the seizure of any prohibited items. The Commission may forward seized materials for laboratory analysis.
Rule 386
- First violation: $100–$1,000 and 0–30 day suspension
- Second violation within two years: $1,000 and 30-day suspension
- On the day of a search, horses trained by the individual are scratched
As part of its ongoing commitment to education and transparency, the Commission reminds all licensees that permission to have injectable medications on-site can be requested in advance by emailing records@mphrc.ca. This simple step ensures that necessary veterinary care can be provided while remaining fully compliant with the Rules of Racing. Proactive engagement with the Commission helps prevent avoidable penalties and supports the integrity, welfare standards, and public confidence in the sport.