OK, I have nothing to add on the music disussion -- however, the trainer responsibility rule is a tough one. While I sympathize and empathize with the trainer, the trainer is the one who is "there", on-sight, everyday. Not at every division of course, but the respective assistant trainer, someone on their payroll, who they are in fact responsible for is there everyday.
There has to be some accountability there, some ultimate responsibility. Perhaps the trainer responsibility rule as it stands is not ideal, maybe it needs to be revised or amended. Years ago, in the standardbred business (in NJ, I don't know about elsewhere), many trainers used to take advantage of a "loophole" in the rule. The trainer would list themselves (in the program) as the head trainer and the assitant would be listed as the assistant trainer. If a positive test occured, or some other violation that resulted in days -- the assistant could take the days. I believe they did away with the "loophole" but I am not sure.
It is for these reasons that I have trouble with the implementation of the owner responsibility rule. I think in it's most strict form it is nothing more than a strong arm way of forcing owners into a limited universe of hiring a trainer. However, I see that being a problem as well. In a myopic view I am sure many people would say that's a good thing -- that's the desired result. In a more global setting I think this could have many negative ramifications. There has to be another answer or answers.
Bruce Levine commented the potential "sabotage" aspect or someone who might "spike" a horse (note -- he made these comments after his barn tested negative). That has to be a concern. How can someone deal with that? Contamination is always an issue. Split samples as well. Regardless, hold me ultimately responsible for everything that goes on, when I am not there everyday, that is a tough bullet to bite. Should I ask Levine to sign something? Tell him not to do anything "aggressive" or not treat my horses with such and such? And, what happens when a positive test occurs? How does this play out? I think this is a very complex issue and one that is not so easy to address.
Eric
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