Updated guidelines for the preparation and sale of thoroughbred breeding and young stock at public auction were published Wednesday by the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (TBA), Irish Thoroughbred Breeders' Association (ITBA), Goffs, Tattersalls and the Federation of Bloodstock Agents, ahead of the forthcoming yearling sales season.
Available digitally, the guidance aims to help new and existing participants navigate the sales preparation and selling processes for optimum equine health and welfare, whilst also providing transparency on thoroughbred care before, during and after the sale.
“The British and Irish thoroughbred breeding industries remain committed to advocating and promoting the highest standards of care and well-being for our horses through guidance and education,” said Claire Sheppard, Chief Executive of the Thoroughbred Breeders' Association. “These updated guidelines reflect the developments in technology to allow routine tasks to be more efficient, biosecure and facilitate a greater level of traceability.”
“The ability to manage every horse as an individual, is often the key to achieving the best sale outcome for each thoroughbred and this approach extends to the sales complex, where alternative bedding materials can be provided for those with medical conditions; the handling, stabling and exercise regime for each horse can be tailored to meet their requirements; and feed rations and the dosage rate of medications should be administered according to the body weight and demeanour of each horse.
The thoroughbred industry has been an early-adopter of digital solutions, and the updated guidelines reflect the growing ability to monitor the temperature of horses at the sales using their biothermal microchips (2023 foal crop onwards) and to initiate General Stud Book processes, such as post-sale transfer of ownership, via the e-passport.”
To view the newly-updated sales guidelines, click here.
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