The American Association of Equine Practitioners hopes to promote ethical practices at public horse auctions with a new set of guidelines.

The Public Auction Task Force of AAEP has developed recommendations regarding the use of radiographic reports as part of the pre-purchase exams at primarily thoroughbred auctions.

Harry W. Werner, VMD, AAEP president, said in a press release, “It is our hope that everyone involved in the buying and selling of horses will embrace the highest standards of professional behavior.”

Key principles include:

• Interpretation of radiographs should be performed by a veterinarian retained to represent the buyer.

• Modification or alteration of radiographic reports by a veterinarian or anyone involved with the sales process is considered unethical and fraudulent.

The AAEP’s complete recommendations can be found at www.aaep.org/purchase_exams.htm.