Participants in the Standardbred industry are advised that the period for feedback and public comment on the National Farm Animal Care Council's draft Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines closes on Thursday, March 12.

The Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines sets national standards for the care and welfare of horses in Canada. Participants are encouraged to download or print the full draft version of the Code, available here and embedded below, for review.

Geoff Maltby is the Racing Representative on the Code Committee, and he stressed the importance of participation from the harness racing industry.

"It is important to read the entire draft to fully understand the context and implications — especially the Recommended Best Practices, which provide insight into where future updates to the Code may be headed," Maltby told Trot Insider, citing sections on Emergency Planning, Fitness to Compete, Biosecurity and Mud Management, Turnout and Identification and Branding as most relevant.

Feedback on the draft Code will only be accepted through the official comment system. To offer feedback before March 12, click here. 

The final Code of Practice for the Care and Handling of Equines is scheduled for release in early 2027.

(Standardbred Canada)