Arthur to join California board

Dr. Rick Arthur, a past president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners and a backstretch veterinarian on the Southern California Thoroughbred circuit, has been named the equine medical director for the California Horse Racing Board, the board announced Tuesday.

An owner and breeder of Thoroughbreds, Arthur replaces Ron Jensen, who recently retired.

Arthur was one of six candidates considered by the racing board and the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California at Davis. Arthur will give up his private practice, according to a statement released by the racing board. Arthur, who has served on the racing board's medication committee since the 1980's and is a member of the Oak Tree board of directors, will report to the board on drug testing and matters of equine health.

Arthur said he will remain in Southern California, but will spend "considerable time" at UC-Davis, working to expand drug testing policy and analyzing laboratory findings.