Toe Grabs, Steroids Being Banned With Racehorses

Several states have already passed new racing regulations — with others soon to follow — that will prohibit the use of horseshoes with toe grabs that are over 2 millimeters in height on the front feet. In mid-June, The Jockey Club’s Thoroughbred safety committee recommended the elimination of steroids during both training and racing, a ban on toe grabs and a series of whip-related reforms aimed at improving the safety and integrity of Thoroughbred racing. Several tracks have already banned toe grabs as of Sept. 1, although there is some question as to whether all toe grabs or just those with a height exceeding 2 millimeters will be banned and whether the ban applies to both front and back feet.

Get An Earful With An Ear Phone

When you watch Jim Keith working on a horse’s foot, you may think he’s talking to himself. Instead, the Wingate, Ind., farrier is probably communicating with a client or equine veterinarian through a phone attached to his ear. He’s found this style of cell phone saves him considerable time. “I can take calls while still trimming or shoeing and not have to go back later and spend time going through my voice mails,” says Keith. “Clients like being able to get hold of me immediately rather than having me call them back hours later. Going down the road, it’s also easier to talk on the phone without having to take one hand off the truck’s steering…