Horse Illustrated Magazine

With the 2007 spring show season quickly approaching, the Kentucky Horse Park (KHP) recently announced several changes that will affect those who wish to compete in upcoming competitions. Updates to the equine health protocol, new regulations regarding electrical equipment and the addition of a trailer grounds fee are all included in these changes.

In response to the recent outbreaks of the equine herpes virus and concern over the continual health and safety of horses, KHP management announced a specific health protocol to all exhibitors who plan to travel to the KHP for any events this year.  The state requires that all horses entering Kentucky provide a negative Coggins test within one year of entry as well as a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (Health Certificate) signed by a licensed veterinarian within 30 days of entry.  Horses originating within the state of Kentucky are required to have a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection within 150 days.

It is also recommended that all horses be vaccinated for EHV-1 (either modified live or killed vaccine) prior to entry and that the date of vaccination be noted on the Certificate of Veterinary Inspection.  To facilitate the inspection process by Kentucky Department of Agriculture personnel, this paperwork must accompany the horses upon arrival and be available throughout their stay. 

Additionally, the KHP announced new regulations regarding electrical equipment.  In compliance with the State of Kentucky Fire Code, the KHP will no longer allow any of the following in stalls, barns or tents: any two prong plug appliances (fans, et cetera); any two prong plug extension cords; light duty cords for indoor use; any three-way adaptors unless specifically for outdoor use; and any adaptors without three prong connections. Any equipment not in compliance is subject to confiscation.

Because of the inadvertent damage done by trailers and tied horses to the grounds and show areas, the park has been incurring rising costs to keep those areas clean and well maintained.  To address these costs, the park is implementing a few changes to relieve some of the stress on the grounds and amenities. One of the changes is a Trailer Grounds Fee for all competitors who don’t rent a stall while competing at the park. (Stalls can be purchased through the show office for $20 per day or $75 for the season.)Through the collection of these fees, the KHP will be able to increase and improve trailer parking areas, including adding better lighting and parking surfaces.  In effect, every competitor will benefit directly from the implementation of this fee.

Further requirements, recommendations and information can be found at www.kentuckyhorseshows.com.