01-017 C.M.R. ch. 7, § 47 - Nerved Horses

1. Nerving is defined as any blocking of nerve function of a horse via surgical neurectomy, cryogenic techniques, or other desensitizing means, whether permanent or temporary.

2. Only posterior digital nerving will be permitted on horses to be raced in Maine. This procedure must be performed posterior to the first phalanx and at a level below the base of the sesamoid bones.

3. Horses nerved at a level above the base of the sesamoid bones are not eligible to race in Maine.

4. It shall be the responsibility of the trainer to report all nerved horses to the State Veterinarian. This report must be accompanied by an official veterinary report with the type of neurectomy performed. This neurectomy must be recorded on the official United States Trotting Association Eligibility Record and the name of the horse posted on the bulletin board of the racing office and indicated by the symbol "N" on the racing program.

Violations of this section shall constitute a Level 3 violation.

Notes

01-017 C.M.R. ch. 7, § 47