In 2016, Greyhounds Australasia proposes to introduce a urinary threshold for arsenic of 800 ng/mL within Gar 83 (11) as follows:
"Arsenic at or below a mass concentration of 800 nanograms per millilitre in a sample of urine taken from a greyhound will not breach the provisions of sub rule (1A) or (2) of this rule."
However in the interim period, participants are reminded that controlling bodies have the ability to prosecute clear breaches of the proposed threshold under part (d) of the definition or prohibited substance which states: "unusual or abnormal amounts of endogenous substance(s) including but not limited to cortisol and testosterone."
Trainers are advised to be extremely cautious using products that contain arsenic close to racing as this may inadvertently lead to a rise in urinary arsenic levels. Compliance with Gar 83A Raceday Treatment (http://www.galtd.org.au/sites/default/files/forms-and-documents/Warning%20-%20Raceday%20treatment.pdf) will minimise the risk of inadvertently exceeding the threshold, however a greater withholding period will be required for some substances, particularly injectable products.
Arsenic is a naturally occurring trace element that is normally present in greyhounds at very low levels as a result of normal dietary intake.
An excessive amount of arsenic has an effect on the cardiovascular system (Gar 1) and therefore is a prohibited substance when present in a sample at concentrations above that which would naturally occur through routine nutritional sources.
This threshold has been determined following a national population survey that measured urinary arsenic levels in 2849 greyhounds sampled on race day. It has been set at a level to allow for normal amounts of arsenic supplementation through routine nutritional sources.
However, trainers are advised that the administration, particularly by injection and on multiple occasions or at larger ‘off-label’ doses, of certain registered vitamin supplements close to racing may result in a level of arsenic in a subsequent sample that exceeds this threshold. Trainers are therefore advised to avoid the use of these supplements close to racing.
While there is generally no medical indication for arsenic supplementation in a healthy greyhound fed a balanced diet, where veterinary advice indicates these supplements are required, they should be given following the labeled advice of the manufacturer and ensure an adequate withholding period is followed prior to racing.
Examples of injectable vitamin supplements that contain arsenic include: NV Ferrocyl Injection (Sodium Cacodylate 6.4 mg/mL), NV Jurocyl (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL), TROY Invigorate As Injection (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL) and Jurox ARCYL Solution For Injection (Sodium Arsanilate 50 mg/mL).
For a current list of APVMA registered products that contain arsenic visit: https://portal.apvma.gov.au/pubcris
For further information please contact Greyhound Racing NSW.
