Graham Holland has revealed the Garryvoe Bobby failed a drugs test for Buscopan – a drug used to help the dog pass urine.
Holland said: “The rumour mill will start with people who want to bury me and I would like the truth to come out immediately. The dog has a major problem cleaning himself, his father was the same. I was worried about him and spoke to Nick (Savva) who said that Buscopan was particularly effective with dogs that can’t pea. Bobby was really struggling so I gave him a dose.
“The drug obviously stayed in his system for a whole week and I bitterly regret giving it to him. But there was nothing sinister or cruel, quite the opposite. It was a welfare issue for a drug that would have no effect whatsoever on his performance on the track.
“Obviously there will be an inquiry, but I hope it leads to a wider debate. Should we be allowed to apply for permission from the veterinary steward to use drugs like Buscopan if it is in the dog’s best interest. I am absolutely gutted for the owner who has taken it in his stride, but I feel so sorry for him.”
** Buscopan is advertised as a recognised treatment for urinary issues and irritable bowel syndrome.
