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.