Recently, the following addition has been included in the AHSA Rule Book 2023 and is now effective.
“Rule 5.2: A Horses sensory Hairs may not be clipped and/or shaven or otherwise modified in any way. Individual sensory hairs may be removed by a veterinarian to prevent discomfort for the horse. Areas of hair that must be clipped, shaven or removed to allow veterinary treatment are exempt from this rule.”
A phase in period is being introduced to ensure horses are competing with sensory hairs. Effective now, horses found competing with clipped/shaven/otherwise modified sensory hairs will be issued a warning. From 1st January 2024, horses found competing with clipped/shaven/otherwise modified sensory hairs
will be eliminated from the event.
Who must abide by this rule? The AHSA Rules and Regulations apply to all AHSA and Affiliate Events and/or Competitions organised by persons or bodies affiliated to AHSA. By entering in a competition that is governed under AHSA rules, the participant is accepting to abide by these rules regardless of whether they are
an AHSA member or not.
Who can eliminate a horse or issue a recorded warning? Officials recognised by AHSA or Affiliates are responsible for the implementation of all Rules. Further information will be provided regarding the warning system.
What can a Veterinary Exemption cover? Individual sensory hairs may be removed by a veterinarian to prevent pain or discomfort for the Horse. Areas of hair that must be clipped, shaven or removed to allow veterinary treatment are exempt from this rule. Horses that have a veterinary exemption must provide proof in the form of a Veterinary Certificate to the Organising Committee and Event Officials on request.
Is there a certain length or number of Sensory Hairs that must remain on the horse? No, there is no specified length or number of hairs that must remain on the horse. The spirit of the rule is that the Sensory Hairs of the horse are not purposely altered or modified in any way.
