by Jessica Barnes, director of racing & breed development, Indiana Horse Racing Commission

Indianapolis, IN — The Indiana Horse Racing Commission issued a four year suspension to veterinarian Jerrilee Cave. The decision was made at the Commission public meeting on March 7.

The suspension stems from an incident in 2009 in which Dr. Cave furnished a loaded syringe and needle containing a non-salix diuretic commonly referred to as “clotol” to a licensed Standardbred trainer. The drug was provided within the secured backstretch stable area at Hoosier Park so that the trainer could administer on race day to the horse JJ’s Pilgrim prior to the fourth race on July 8, 2009.

The horse died at the track immediately after the drug was administered by the groom.

“We have always taken very seriously any intentional violations of race day medication rules,” said Joe Gorajec, Commission Executive Director. “The death of the horse was certainly an aggravating factor in determining the penalty.”

Dr. Cave has been excluded from all properties under the jurisdiction of the Commission since shortly after the incident.

For further information contact Joe Gorajec at jgorjaec@hrc.in.gov or at 317.233.3119.