AES UK Rules and Regulations

ANGLO EUROPEAN STUDBOOK UK RULES AND REGULATIONS
Updated March 2021

 

1.    Introduction

The Anglo European Studbook UK is a studbook for the breeding of modern performance sport horses combining the best European, Irish and British competition bloodlines to create a modern equine athlete for the three Olympic Disciplines of Showjumping, Eventing and Dressage.

The Anglo European Studbook UK is a Member of the World Breeding Federation for Sport Horses.

The Anglo European Studbook is a U.K. based E.U. recognized studbook fully approved by D.E.F.R.A. (Department for Environment Food & Rural Affairs) as a P.I.O. (Passport Issuing Organization) and a full member of the W.B.F.S.H. (World Breeding Federation of Sport Horses). 

The AES is a Limited Company registered at Companies House (number 2895163). Its aim is to promote the breeding of the world class sport horses, using the best performance bloodlines available in the U.K. and Europe today. 

This document lays out the structure and methods of the AES UK. Any matters of doubt should be resolved by following the spirit of the text and in consultation with the senior management of the studbook. 

The AES will act in accordance with the UK, EU and WBFSH directives regarding studbook rules and regulations, insofar as they apply to the AES and are considered to be binding. In order to comply with Commission Decision 92/353/EEC, the Company (Anglo European Studbook Ltd.) declares that there will be no discrimination between breeders. 

The AES UK issues passports which meet the full specifications set out in Annex I Part 1 and Part 2 of EU Regulation 2015/262 and unchanged from the format given. 

The AES UK conducts itself at all times in accordance with the Minimum operating standards for UK approved passport issuing organisations, issued by Defra.

The AES UK will enter into the breeding book, animals of the same breed, line or cross that are eligible for entry under the Society’s breed criteria, without discrimination on account of their country of origin.

The AES UK is a data controller and endeavours at all times to process personal data in a way that is fully compliant with the EU General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) that comes into force on 25 May 2018. We only keep personal details where necessary. These are kept confidential, secure and will only be used for administration, statistical and analytical purposes, supplying information to equally compliant third party that have a legitimate requirement for those data, such as the Central Equine Database. 

We will not disclose personal data to third party data controllers other than in connection with the equine database, unless in accordance with law. The AES is bound by Commission Decision 92/353/EEC and all relevant Horse Passport Regulations. 

The AES UK will share horse pedigree data with appropriate third parties where it facilitates the advancement of public knowledge about breeding and performance. 

Select Studbook horses are eligible for Select Premiums:

 

2.    Studbook Objectives

2.1   Breeding Goal

The goal of the Anglo European Studbook is to facilitate the improvement of a modern sport horse breed aimed at the three Olympic disciplines of Showjumping, Eventing and Dressage.

The AES breeding objective is to support the breeding of healthy and sound equine athletes for Eventing, Show Jumping and Dressage capable of competing successfully at Grand Prix level. 

To achieve this, the AES focuses on functionality, ability and temperament. 

Utmost attention is paid to correct conformation to provide horses for the sport that are fit for purpose and to encourage the breeding of horses for longevity and durability. 

The AES is a performance studbook, with particular encouragement and incentives provided to breed for the highest level in all three Olympic disciplines. Its breeding objective are talented horses with excellent ability to succeed. 

The AES recognises the importance of temperament for trainability and rideability and supports the breeding of horses with good character that will become happy athletes and reliable partners in the sport. 

2.1.1 Characteristics of the Breed

The overarching breeding goal of the Anglo European Studbook is to produce an equine athlete capable of succeeding at national and international level in Showjumping, Eventing or Dressage. Much emphasis is placed on safeguarding the welfare of the breed by selecting horses for ability, longevity, temperament and soundness.

The ideal Anglo European Studbook horse or pony:

1.    Has excellent temperament with the ability to learn and the willingness to perform and are easy and pleasant to handle from the ground. 

2.    Has strong and correct limbs to ensure long term soundness, enabling it to perform to the highest level without experiencing pain or discomfort.

3.    Benefits from a correct conformation functional for expressive movement and performance.

4.    Has a harmonious frame and conformation with long lines that a noble expression.

5.    In summary, the Anglo European Studbooks facilitates the breeding of equine athletes in showjumpers, eventers and dressage horses capable of performing at the top level internationally, including Grand Prix level for dressage horses and showjumpers, FEI level for ponies and 5*/WEG level eventing, capable of sustaining performance at that level thanks longevity and soundness coming from correct conformation and movement and the ability and willingness to perform.

To achieve its Breeding Goals, the Anglo European Studbook endeavours to:

2.1 Facilitate the registration of sport horses in the U.K..  
2.2 Breed the best possible competition horses.  
2.3 Support owners and breeders through guidance, transparency, information and data. 
2.4 Support the British breeding community to contribute to its long term success.  
2.5 Support the riders through information and by encouraging the breeding of functional talented horses with excellent ability and temperament. 
2.6 Encourage co-operation and interchange of knowledge between owners, breeders and riders  

HOW

2.7 By providing media information through newsletters, press releases, website, social 
media and seminars.  
2.8 Utilising the knowledge and skills of top riders in Dressage, Show Jumping and Eventing. 
2.9 Regular grading of breeding stock and progeny, incorporating performance reviews.  
2.10 Registration of all stock into the Central Equine Database. 
2.11 Youngstock grading shows, breed competitions, mare gradings and mare performance records and stallion grading shows
2.12 Supporting Elite Foal Auctions and other UK wide programmes designed to improve and promote performance breeding. 
2.13 Membership of and active participation in the projects and initiatives of the WBFSH. 

2.14 The development of a select studbook and premium programme to encourage, recognise and reward excellence.

 

GRADING CRITERIA

2.15 Soundness and ability

2.16 Conformation and movement 

2.17 Competition prowess and ability of offspring  

2.18 Reproductive ability

2.19 Pedigree and studbook status (Full, Auxiliary or Foundation Studbook) 

 

2.20    The AES Team

The AES prides itself in excellent staff training and development. Linear scorers, selectors and evaluators regularly attend World Breeding Federation events and seminars to stay at the forefront of international developments in the science of breeding and the evaluation of breeding stock. 

Office staff are actively involved in feedback and process development and receive additional opportunities to maintain a full appreciation of the work of the studbook through field trips and events. 

Office staff are in constant contact with senior management for performance reviews and quality control. 

The AES has invested in state-of-the-art facilities and IT systems to support its work. It makes continuous investments in technology to record and store data in a secure and accurate manner and to produce the highest level of quality passport. 

The AES employs the service of several independent third party to assist with the evaluation and selection of breeding animals. It ensure that there is no conflict of interest between the evaluators’ own breeding activities and the work of the studbook. 


3.    Selection and Breeding Goals

To facilitate its breeding goals, the AES carries out extensive inspections and selections of breeding stock.

3.1 Breeding Stallions

3.1.0 Our graded stallions will be added to our stallion database:  

3.20.1    If a stallion is originally registered with AES (Main or Auxiliary Studbook), he will keep his original UELN that has been provided by the AES. The database will be updated with the status of the stallion (Registered, Licensed, Approved or Elite).
3.20.2    If a stallion is originally registered with an alternative studbook, he will keep his original UELN that has been provided by original studbook. The status of the stallion will be added to the database (Registered, Licensed, Approved or Elite). No new passport will be issued by the AES. In case of loss the replacement passport has to be made by the original PIO, unless the stallion is standing in the UK and the original PIO has no UK office, in which case the stallion owner may apply for a duplicate passport issued by the AES but with the original identification and registration details.  

3.21    An AES registered stallion will obtain a graded status (Registered, Licensed, Approved, or Elite) after passing an AES grading. A stallion registered with an alternative studbook will be added to our database after passing an AES grading. After adding the newly graded stallion to our stallion database he will receive the status awarded at the grading (Registered, Licensed, Approved, or Elite). 

Graded stallions receive a linear score, which is added to the AES database. The linear score consists of detailed description of:
a)    Correctness of limb and soundness, examined on hard ground
b)    Conformation of frame and top line
c)    Walk
d)    Trot
e)    Canter
f)    Jump (for showjumpers and eventer only)

Separate breed optima are defined specifically for dressage, showjumping and eventing and clearly highlighted on the linear profile. 


Stallion Grades 
3.2.1 Failed  
3.2.2 Registered  
3.2.3 Licensed  
3.2.4 Approved  
3.2.5 Elite  

At a stallion’s first grading show a stallion’s initial grade is assessed on his conformation, performance ability, movement and pedigree, using a linear profile. Linear profiles of graded stallions are added to the database. Unsound horses are excluded. In case of a dispute concerning soundness, our vet will be the one who decides. A grade can change over time according to the stallion’s performance and quality of progeny. 

Stallions presented at 2 1⁄2 to 3 1⁄2 years old will be inspected in hand and loose in the school and can be graded as either failed , registered or licensed. 

At four years of age or over, stallions are assessed under saddle, and are expected to show age appropriate work in dressage or jumping, in order to be eligible for an upgrade to Licensed or Approved status. 

Performance assessment: 

The AES continually assesses its stallions’ performance in competition and in terms of quality of progeny. The decision to up-, as well as downgrade a stallion based on their competition record and/or quality of offspring inspected lies at the discretion of the judges. 

3.2.2 Registered Stallions 
Stallions achieve registered status in recognition of showing good promise and quality, but are yet to prove themselves further to achieve a higher status. This level of grading is designed for young stallions who are yet to fully mature. 
Owners are advised that the registered status enables them to use the stallion on their own mares only, and does not permit them to advertise the stallion for public coverings for full main studbook papers. Registered stallions are limited to 10 mares per annum.
Registered stallions must be re-presented for re-assessment within 2 years of the original grading. 

3.2.3 Licensed Stallions  
Stallions showing exceptional quality and potential at a young age can achieve licensed status at their first inspection. Registered stallions can be upgraded to licensed status based on further inspections and on proving themselves in the quality of their offspring and their sport performance. 
A licensed stallion can cover up to thirty mares annually. Offspring can be registered in the main studbook or auxiliary studbook. 

3.2.4 Approved Stallions  
Approved status is awarded based on performance records and/or quality of offspring and/or further inspection by the studbook evaluators. Approved stallions have proven themselves in breeding and in the sport, giving a reliability and suitability indication similar to performance tested stallions on the continent. 
Approved stallions can cover an unlimited number of mares. 

3.2.5 Elite Stallions  
Stallions who have performed at the highest level internationally, and whose offspring are consistently well above average are awarded Elite Status. This award is made at the discretion of the studbook evaluators and management. 
Elite stallions can cover an unlimited number of mares.

3.3 The grading of a stallion is decided by the Stallion Grading Committee, which comprises of the stallion evaluators.

3.4 The upgrading or downgrading of a stallion is decided by the Stallion Grading 
Committee, either during the Stallion Show, or at a special meeting (Annual Review). 
Stallions failing to accumulate a sufficient performance record and/or not producing progeny of sufficient quality will be downgraded or have their license revoked. Upgrades are granted, at the discretion of the Stallion Grading Committee, if a stallion’s performance and progeny indicate that he is an asset to the breeding population. 
Typically, a seven-year-old stallion is expected to perform well at at least national level competitions in order to be eligible for a performance review in view of upgrading to approved status. Elite stallions typically have a successful international competition record and Grand Prix competition experience. 

To monitor stallion performance records, the AES consults FEI and national performance records. If a stallion is either up- or downgraded the owner is notified by post. In exceptional cases, a year’s amnesty may be given. If the owner feels that there are extenuating circumstances for his stallion’s poor performance he or she should notify the AES in writing including any supportive evidence, at least fourteen days before the Annual Stallion Grading Show, or the Annual Review. If the stallion is put on a year’s amnesty of downgrading the owner will be informed in writing. A stallion’s grading status is published on the public database. 

3.5 All stallions MUST undergo a full five-stage vetting before the stallion can be listed as graded. X-rays must be included at a minimum of 18 photos:
Navicular bone (2x2) Sesamoid bone (2x2) Tarsal Joint/Hock (3x2) Stifle (1x2)
Fetlock hind (1x2) 

3.6 All stallions MUST be tested for Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome. Results will be published on the database. 

3.7 All stallions must submit a DNA sample.

 

3.8 Mares and Youngstock Gradings

The AES strongly recommends that all broodmares are tested for Warmblood Fragile Foal Syndrome and that all youngstock from untested parents is also tested. The WFFS status of every tested horse is clearly highlighted on the database.

The AES also strongly recommends that all newly registered foals are DNA verified. Where DNA verification has been carried out, this is clearly highlighted on the database and passport.

The AES carries out extensive inspections and gradings of broodmares and youngstock. 

The grades available for youngstock and broodmares in all three studbooks (main, auxiliary, foundation) are as follows: 

Third Premium – One star Second Premium – Two stars First Premium – Three stars 

Adult horses will be awarded further stars based on performance: 

National Performance Records: 4 stars International Performance Records: 5 stars 
4 star horses will be awarded silver, 5 star horses gold papers. 

Mare and youngstock inspections are carried out at regional grading shows and tours, alongside existing equestrian events, and at home.

All horses have to be shown in hand as well as loose. The 2 and 3 year olds aimed at jumping or eventing will have to be loose schooled over jumps. 

Entry fees per horse are detailed in the section on AES charges. 

AES registration is mandatory for all youngstock entering grading shows. Mares registered with other studbooks are also eligible for grading into the studbook for breeding purposes. Mares with full main studbook papers from another WBFSH member studbook are eligible for grading into the AES main studbook. 

For mares without full main studbook papers from another WBFSH member studbook, the same principles apply as they do in youngstock registrations, i.e. those mares are eligible to be entered in either the auxiliary or foundation database. 

All horses are assessed using a full linear profile, a record of which is kept and which is also made available to the breeder. 

Graded mares and youngstock receive a linear score, which is added to the AES database. The linear score consists of detailed description of:
g)    Correctness of limb and soundness, examined on hard ground
h)    Conformation of frame and top line
i)    Walk
j)    Trot
k)    Canter
l)    Jump (for showjumpers and eventer only, from the age of 2)

Separate breed optima are defined specifically for dressage, showjumping and eventing and clearly highlighted on the linear profile. 

3.9 AES Select Studbook and Select Premium Programme

Newborn foals eligible for main studbook papers that are out of graded mares are eligible for entry into the Select Studbook. Already registered older horses with full main studbook papers and out of graded mares are also eligible for an upgrade into the select studbook. To enter the Select studbooks, the full pedigree of the horse must be DNA verified and the DNA profile recorded on the database.

Select studbook foals and horses can be presented for grading inspection. To recognise the highest quality horses, the following premiums are awarded to inspected select studbook horses:

3.9.1 Type Premium

Awarded to foals and horses with exceptional conformation and movement. To qualify, foals and horses must achieve an average score of 8 or above for those attributes on inspection.

3.9.2 Health Premium

Awarded to foals and horses with the highest correctness and soundness. To qualify, foals and horses must be evaluated by a veterinarian as part of their inspection and achieve an average score of 8 or higher for their soundness evaluation. They must also submit a DNA sample for WFFS testing.

3.9.3 Performance Premium

This is awarded to older horses at the discretion of the evaluation panel based on the horse's national and international performance results. 

3.9.4 Legacy Premium

This is awarded to older horses at the discretion of the evaluation panel in recognition of a horse's quality of offspring. 


4.    Membership

Membership is open to everyone that registers a horse with AES. There is no annual fee to 
become a member. Benefits of membership are: 

4.1 Registration and passport facilities. 
This includes all services associated with the identification of equines, including: 
4.1.1 The registration of new born foals 
4.1.2. The overstamping of horses and ponies eligible for entry into the studbook, on request of their owners. 
4.1.3 The grading of eligible breeding animals into the studbook. 
4.1.4 The Updating of ownership information 
4.1.5 The Updating of other relevant information, such as results of genetic or phenotype evaluations  
4.2 Information through Newsletter, social media and the website. 
We regularly update our website and social media with the latest news and write to our membership to inform them of relevant services and initiatives. Members also receive a complimentary copy of the British Breeder Magazine. 
4.3 Free admission to the stallion grading shows.  
All members are eligible to present or attend as visitors our public stallion gradings. 
4.4 Free admission to meetings and seminars.  
We organise a meeting for our members at least once a year. An agenda and minutes of the meeting will be made available to the members. 
4.5 Access to research and further information.  
We use our social media and website to inform our breeders of important animal health issues relevant to breeding, including the testing for known genetic conditions and the outbreak of any contagious diseases. 
4.6 Eligibility to participate in grading shows. 
All members are eligible to present their stock at grading shows. 


5.    Rights of Breeders and Complaints Procedure

5.1 Breeders can can be confident that the fair treatment of customers is central to the Anglo European Studbook’s culture and that we pay due regard to the interests of our breeders at all times. Our services are designed to fully meet the needs of our breeders. We seek to provide our breeders with clear information ensure they are appropriately informed before, during and after they use our services. Where breeders receive advice, the advice is suitable and takes account of their circumstances. We seek to meet breeders expectations at all times and ensure they are fully informed about the services we provide. We ensure that our breeders to not face any unreasonable barriers to making a free choice of employing the service of another studbook or make a complaint (see point 5.1.2 of this document). 
In the unlikely event that disagreements occur, we have clear policies in place and – where necessary or appropriate – seek the advice and cooperation of Trading Standards to resolve these. 
5.1.1 We confirm the equal treatment and non-discrimination of all breeders. Breeders are able to exercise free choice in the selection of broodmares and stallions and that these can be put forward for grading if they so wish. Offspring will be entered in the appropriate breeding book, with different sections of the studbook available to accommodate this free choice (see section 6 of this document). We confirm that breeders retain ownership of their breeding animals. 
5.1.2 The Anglo European Studbook prides itself on providing an excellent level of customer service – but there may be times when you wish to complain about something that we did not get quite right. When that happens, we would encourage you to tell us about your complaint so we can put things right. 
For complaints/appeals please contact:
Anglo European Studbook ltd. New Barn Farm Capel Road Rusper, West Sussex 
RH12 4PZ Tel: 01293 871701 Fax: 01293 871205 Email: info@angloeuropeanstudbook.co.uk 
Our Complaints Procedure
1. We provide written acknowledgement of the complaint and the name and contact details 
of the member of staff dealing with the matter.  
2. We confirm how the complaint will be dealt with and in what timeframe (immediately if possible, otherwise AES aims for a response within 48 hours or up to one week, depending on the complexity of the complaint).  
3. We provide written confirmation of the outcome of the complaint.  
4. If the complaint is not solved, a letter should be sent within 8 weeks of the original complaint, clearly explaining why we have been unable to resolve the matter. This letter will also outline the appeal procedure.  
5. Records will be maintained by our staff, relating to any complaints received. These records will be available for inspection if required. These records will include the name of the complainant, the substance of the complaint and all relevant correspondence. It will also include any offer of redress, accepted or refused, by the claimant. These records will be stored in our database. 
Our Appeal Procedure  
1. If the client is not satisfied with the solution/process, they may appeal to the Studbook management. This appeal should be made in writing, detailing the cause of dissatisfaction and may offer suggested resolution(s).  
2. If the client is not satisfied with the outcome of their appeal, they may wish to take their case to the following body: 
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), Horse Passports Team, Area 5E, 9 Millbank, c/o Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London, SW1P 3JR 

6.    AES Registration Types

The Anglo European Studbook registers horses in the following studbooks: 
6.1 Main Studbook
6.2 Auxiliary Studbook  
3.3 Foundation Studbook  

6.1.0 Main Studbook  
The Main Studbook is exclusively used for horses that:  
6.1.1 Are bred with an AES graded stallion (Registered,* Licensed, Approved, or Elite), or with a stallion graded with another WBFSH member studbook, and have at least three generations of full pedigree. For horses to be registered with the AES UK, offspring from stallions licensed with another studbook recognised by the AES may be eligible for full papers, at the studbook's discretion. * if used on the stallion owner’s own mare 
6.1.2 Youngstock fulfilling the above criteria and bred from AES graded mares are eligible for studbook inspection for purple papers, the premium section of the studbook. 

6.2.0 Auxiliary Studbook
The Auxiliary Studbook is used for horses that:  
6.2.1 Are bred with an AES graded stallion (Registered, Licensed, Approved, or Elite) and have fewer than 3 generations of pedigree on the Dam’s side.  
6.2.2 Are bred with a stallion graded by an alternative studbook that is recognised by the AES or with a stallion graded with another WBFSH member studbook, and have fewer than 3 generations of pedigree on the Dam’s side.  
6.2.3 Are bred with a stallion graded by an alternative studbook that is not recognised by the AES but is E.U. recognised. 
6.2.4 Are bred with a stallion graded by an alternative studbook that is not recognised by the AES and is not E.U. recognized. 
6.2.5 Are bred by an ungraded stallion that has at least 3 generations of pedigree.* 
6.2.6 Are bred by an ungraded stallion with fewer than 3 generations of pedigree and a mare with at least three generations of pedigree. 
* A blood test is required (DNA) to prove the pedigree of all ungraded stallions 

6.3.0 Foundation Studbook
The Foundation Studbook is used for horses that comply with the AES breeding objective of 
being suitable for one of the three Olympic disciplines and that:  
6.3.1 have unproven pedigree 
6.3.2 are bred from ungraded stallions that have fewer than 3 generations of pedigree out of a mare with fewer than 3 generations of pedigree 
6.3.3 Foundation passports are ID passports only and no pedigree will be recorded in them. 

6.4 AES Recognized Studbooks

The AES recognizes studbooks that: 
1.    Are E.U.recognized  
2.    Have a breeding objective that has strong similarity with the AES and have an equal selection method to bring a positive contribution to realise the breeding objectives of AES.  
3.    Are a member of the W.B.F.S.H. 
4.    Contribute a specific set of benefits to the breeding programme, for example Arab, Anglo Arab and Thoroughbred stallions or mares to be crossed with warmblood type horses.  

AES publishes a list of the recognized studbooks on its website. 

6.5. AES will not register 100% Thoroughbred, Arabs and Hackneys. 

6.6 Procedures for Upgrading:

Upgrades from foundation to auxiliary studbook are possible with sufficient proof of parentage/pedigree based on DNA verification. Only fully proven and verified pedigree will be recorded. 

Upgrades from auxiliary studbook to main studbook are possible in the following circumstances:
6.6.1. For offspring by licensed stallions out of mare with some missing pedigree information, provided for the offspring three full generations of pedigree are known and proven. 
6.6.2. For offspring by previously unlicensed stallions provided their three generations pedigree is complete and proven, if that stallion has become licensed/accepted by the AES subsequent to the issuing of registration papers.

The AES accept offspring from all known methods of reproduction, including natural covering, AI with chilled semen, AI with fresh semen, AI with frozen semen, Embryo Transfer, sexed semen, ICSI and cloning. 


7.    The AES Passport

All AES registered horses and ponies will receive a microchip and UELN. They receive a single lifetime identification document (SLID, also known as equine passport) containing a markings diagram, the microchip number and the UELN to assist with the correct identification of each animal in transit. Since 2019 ALL new AES passports incorporate an additional zootechnical certificate. All AES horses are recorded on the studbook’s public database, as well as on the Central Equine Database (CED).

Method of Identification:

All registrations will be dealt with according to the EU directive on registrations of equines. This includes the recording of all registered animals on the Central Equine Database.

For stock registered with other studbooks that is to be entered into our breeding programme, original papers will be over stamped to safeguard the data and authenticity of the originals.  

Duplication is to be avoided. In case of fire theft or loss of passports or papers a new markings diagram must be submitted together with a signed declaration  

All foals must be registered while still with the mare. The markings form must be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinarian or an AES appointed qualified layman. 

Late registrations after weaning must be accompanied by a written confirmation of pedigree from the breeder’s veterinarian, or parentage tested by means of blood type or DNA testing, the costs of which are to be carried by the applicant. 

Applications that are made later than 6 months after the foaling date OR later than 31 January of the following year, whichever is the later date, will result in the issue of a duplicate passport that identifies the horse as removed from the food chain, in accordance with food chain safety regulation.  

Horses from non-EU countries can apply for registration into the breeding programme and may be accepted if considered suitable to our breeding objectives.  

When a horse dies, its papers must be returned to the AES office and must not remain in circulation. The passport will be stamped invalid. 

Control:

All horses and ponies interacting with the AES (for example animals presented for grading or attending a show or auction selection) will routinely be checked using a microchip scanner. All AES passports are equipped with a chip that can be read to check the database entry for that horse or pony and to verify the authenticity of the document. 

Zootechnics

The AES issues a zootechnical certificate as an integral part of every new equine passport (SLID), occupying the final pages of the document. The AES also permits stallion owners to generate zootechnical certificates alongside all covering certificates. It also has procedures in place to issue zootechnical certificates for all other germinal products (ova and embryos). 

Line Breeding and Reproductive Techniques

The AES permits line breeding to both stallion or dam lines. As our knowledge of recessive mutations expands, the AES will always strive to be at the forefront of transparency and control. The AES clearly states the WFFS status (Tested – positive, Tested – negative, not tested) of every animal on its database.


7.1 The different registration procedures explained for each studbook:  

7.1.1 Registration procedure Main Studbook *  
7.1.2 Registration procedure Auxiliary Studbook *  
7.1.3 Registration procedure Foundation Studbook *  

* All horses have to be micro chipped by a veterinarian surgeon before registration.
All required forms and information has to be send to our UK office. Please hold a copy of any original forms for the unlikely event something goes wrong or is lost in the post. 

7.1.1 Registration procedure Main Studbook
To produce a passport for a new registration in our Main Studbook we need: 
• A completed AES covering certificate. The front upper part has to be completed and signed by the stallion owner. The front lower part has to be completed by the breeder/owner. The back has to be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinary surgeon. A barcode sticker from the microchip has to be added on the back of the covering certificate by the vet. 
• In the case of the Sire of the horse being graded with an alternative studbook, please send us the covering certificate from that studbook and download a “AES Sketch form” from the download page on our website, which has to be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinary surgeon. The barcode sticker from the microchip has to be added on next to the sketch. Please don’t forget to add the owners/breeders details on a separate note. 
• A photocopy of the Dam’s pedigree that contains the UELN of the Dam. Hand written pedigrees will not be accepted. 
• If the examination by the veterinarian surgeon takes place after weaning of the foal then a blood test (DNA) is required to confirm the breeding. Please contact our office for a DNA- Kit. 

7.1.2 Registration procedure Auxiliary Studbook
To produce a passport for a new registration in our Auxiliary Studbook we need: 
• A completed AES covering certificate. The front upper part has to be completed and signed by the stallion owner. The front lower part has to be completed by the breeder/owner. The back has to be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinary surgeon. A barcode sticker from the microchip has to be added on the back of the covering certificate by the vet. 
• In the case of the Sire of the horse being graded with an alternative studbook that is AES recognized, please send us the covering certificate from that studbook and download a “AES Sketch form” from the download page on our website, which has to be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinary surgeon. A barcode sticker from the microchip has to be added on the back of the covering certificate by the vet as well. Please don’t forget to add the owners/breeders details on a separate note. 
• A photocopy of the Dam’s pedigree that contains the UELN of the Dam. Hand written pedigrees will not be accepted. 
• If the examination by the veterinarian surgeon takes place after weaning of the foal then a blood test (DNA) is required to confirm the breeding. Please contact our office for a DNA-Kit 

7.1.3 Registration procedure Foundation Studbook
To produce a passport for a new registration in our Auxiliary Studbook we need: 
• A completed “AES Sketch form” from the download page on our website, which has to be completed, signed and stamped by a veterinary surgeon. If a covering certificate is available, a barcode sticker from the microchip has to be added on the back of it by the vet as well. Please don’t forget to add the owners/breeders details on a separate note. 

7.2    System for Recording Parentage

We strongly advise all breeders to submit DNA samples of newborn stock for verification purposes. Where DNA is verified, this will be recorded on the SLID and on the public database. It is, however, not mandatory for breeders to submit DNA samples. Where DNA verification has not taken place, this will be clear on the SLID and database. 

The parentage and back pedigree of offspring of AES registered or overstamped animals is verified by checking that the identification data provided is a correct match (microchip numbers and all other relevant data recorded on the SLID). 

For offspring by non-AES stallions we require a zootechnical certificate  for the semen. For offspring out of non-AES mares, should the breeder wish to passport them with the AES, we will only record the pedigree if sufficient evidence is provided (for example, a copy of their passport showing clearly the identification and pedigree information of the mare). 

In any cases where the pedigree cannot be proven, we will carry out DNA testing where possible, or otherwise not record the pedigree and issue auxiliary papers. 


7.3 Performance Research

The AES carries our extensive inspections of its breeding stock (see section 5 above). 
In addition to inspections, the AES carries out continuous performance monitoring of its horses and ponies.

Mode of Data

The AES consults creditable and accurate sources to monitor performance, including the FEI database and the relevant national disciplines’ databases (in the UK British Dressage, British Eventing and British Showjumping). 

Method of Registration, Validation, Data Communications

The AES links FEI performance records directly to its public database to create optimum transparency and communication. By maintaining transparency, data accuracy is supported. The AES only works with reputable bodies capable of providing entirely reliable data. It is striving for similar arrangements with the performance databases managed by the relevant member bodies of the National Federation and already has a signed agreement in place with British Eventing. 

Application of the data in the context of selection targets

A consistent performance record permits a stallion to move from licensed to approved status. Exceptional stallion will be awarded elite status at the discretion of the stallion committee. 

To ascertain the performance of a stallion, the committee will consider the lifetime performance record of the horse up to that time. To show reliability in the sport, an approval candidate stallion must have numerous placings as a minimum at the following levels:
-    Show Jumping Grade A
-    Dressage PSG
-    Eventing BE Advanced

8.    Rules for Grading

8.1 The AES accepts no financial liability in respect of the grades given at grading shows.  
8.2 The evaluators and officials act in a voluntary capacity and have no financial responsibility for their decisions.  
8.3 The evaluators are bound to explain their decisions and are also required to inform and assist exhibitors either privately or in public at their discretion.  
8.4 Evaluators will be looking for sound, athletic well-built horses with paces and conformation to suit their chosen discipline Dressage, Show Jumping or Eventing.
8.5 A horse must be registered in one of the AES studbooks or eligible for registration as a breeding animal, before it can be entered for a mare or young stock grading.  
8.6 In order to enter a grading show the horse must be registered as described above, an entry form must be complete and an entry fee paid.  
8.7 Grading of the mares and young stock is assessed on movement and conformation. Type and Performance are taken in to account.  
8.8 Where performance is taken in to account for grading, the horse’s owner must provide current evidence of the claimed performance with the entry form.  
8.9 It is not mandatory for the handler to be dressed in white. Also white tape in the plaits of mane is not desired.  
8.10 The bridle should consist of a plain snaffle.
8.11 Stallions to be graded must attend a stallion grading.  
8.12 Stallion owners can apply for an extraordinary grading at home if circumstances prevent them from being able to attend a public grading. They must have all the required facilities and be prepared to pay an extra fee.  
8.13 Stallions that have proven themselves at International level and have a clean bill of health must at least attend a grading show and parade in front of the judges and public in order to obtain approval.  
8.14 Stallions entered for grading must undergo a full five-stage vetting. A vet’s certificate stating that the stallion is free from any hereditary unsoundness, together with completed markings form is required. 
8.15 The DNA of all graded stallions must be recorded and stored. 
8.16 The AES will accept stallions for grading from any AES recognised studbook and may choose to accept stallions from other studbooks.  
8.17 Stallions must achieve a high level of performance to stay fully Approved. 
8.18 Stallions are invited to attend future stallion shows to be considered eligible for an upgrade in status. 
8.19 A stallion can be graded for a discipline of its choice – Dressage, Show Jumping or Eventing. Eventing stallions are best served by competing to advanced level first before entering a grading.  
8.20 Before recorded as graded, all stallions must be X-rayed and findings must be submitted to the AES  
8.21 By entering a stallion grading the owner agrees to subject his horse to the opinion of the evaluators and accepts that their opinion is fair and without prejudice. Their verdict on the day is final.  
8.22 Random blood tests will be carried out to prevent malpractice.
8.23 Untrue projections of the status of a stallion to the general public can lead to 
expulsion from the studbook.  
8.24 Stallions are charged an annual stallion contribution of £195 including vat. If stallion owners no longer want their stallion to be listed as an active stallion on the database, they must notify us no later than 31 December of the previous year. Non-payment of stallion contributions will result in exclusion from the studbook. Elite stallions are exempt from the annual stallion contribution.  
8.25 All covering certificates are numbered. After paying the stallion contribution the owner can order the amount off certificates he needs to register the offspring of a stallion.  
8.26 AES covering certificates can only be used for AES graded stallions. Misuse will not be tolerated and subsequent foals will not be registered.  
8.27 The green copy of the covering certificates must be returned to the AES office by 1st November of each year.  
8.28 Fraud in any form will be met by expulsion from the AES. This includes untrue or misleading advertisement of stallions (e.g. presenting Registered stallions as ‘Fully Graded’).  

9.    Meetings of the Board of Directors

1.    The studbook’s board of directors and the senior management team will have meetings as often as at least two members of the board request this, and at a minimum once a year. 
2.    The director or the secretary of the board is responsible for the calling of the meeting concerned and will determine the agenda. 
3.    A member of the board can let himself be represented by another member in board and committee meetings, with the restriction that one member can be authorised to represent just one other board or committee member. 
4.    The decision-making can also take place outside of the meetings, on the condition that all members have consented to the decision-making procedure and have had the opportunity to participate. 
5.    Minutes are made of every meeting of the board of directors and they will be approved in the following meeting session. 

10.    Annual General Meeting (AGM)

1.    The studbook members are invited to an annual meeting
2.    The Date, place and time of the meeting is determined by the board of directors and published on the AES website to communicate it to all studbook members.
3.    Minutes are made of every AGM and they will be approved in the following meeting session.

11. The Gradings Committee

1.    Members of the Gradings Committee conduct themselves without bias and are committed to the fair and equal treatment of all members.
2.    Members of the Gradings Committee must not have a conflict of interest.

The annual general meeting sets up a gradings committee and appoints and dismisses the members of these committees on the basis of names submitted by the general board of directors. 

The board of directors assesses the candidates, comparing them with the profile and formulates a nomination for appointment. The nomination of the general board of directors has a binding nature. The general meeting can remove the binding nature of the nomination for appointment through a decision taken on the basis of at least a two-thirds majority vote. In case the general meeting has removed the binding nature of the nomination for appointment for the general board of directors, the general board of directors will set up a new nomination for appointment. 

The gradings committee consists of three to five members. The general board appoints a chairman from the committee. An inspector selected by the director participates in the meetings of the stallion examination committee and will have an advisory vote. The inspector coordinates the activities of the gradings committee. 


12.    Compensation of expenses 

1.    Board members and other officials receive a compensation for travel and accommodation expenses made in their official capacity as officials and in the interest of the AES, on the basis of principles and guidelines set by the board. 
2.    Within a budget allocated to a region, members of the regional board can receive compensation for expenses made. 

13.    Code of Conduct and Integrity

1.    On the proposal of the general board of directors, the general meeting sets a Code of Conduct and Integrity for members of the Gradings Committee and any other person publicly representing the studbook.
2.    The officials concerned must abide by the rules and behave accordingly. 

14.     Maintaining order and safety 

1.    A party organising an event is required to maintain order and safety in and/or outside the location where the event is being held. The organising party is responsible for doing so, before, during and after the event as well as for the personal safety of all those present. The responsibility for the period following the event ends one hour after the termination of the event. 
2.    The board of directors can set up regulations ensuring the order at events. The board can appoint individuals who are charged with control and supervision of the event. 
3.    In case the safety, orderly course of events or order cannot be sufficiently guaranteed by the general board, the organisation of an event on the planned location may be prohibited. In that case, the organising party is required to take the measures required by the general board and/or inform the parties concerned of another event location no more than five days before the event, so that the safety, orderly course of events or the order can be sufficiently guaranteed. 
4.    In case the safety, orderly course of events, order is not sufficiently guaranteed during an event, the general board may order the organising party to interrupt the event and take the measures required by the general board, and should the party fail to do so, the board may order the organising party to end the event prematurely or to have it take place elsewhere. 

15.    Liability 

1.    In the performance of its duties, obligations and activities, the AES will not be liable towards its members for any actions or negligence of its bodies, committees, officials and employees, in as much as it does not involve liability or intent.
2.    A decision by the board of directors or by the Gradings Committee cannot produce any entitlement to compensation for damages against the AES for members or third parties. 
3.    The board of directors, the Gradings Committee or any person who assists in any manner as well as other officials and/or staff, are not liable for any damages caused directly or indirectly by participation in an event or activity towards the owner, possessor, holder of a horse, the person bringing the horse, steering or riding the horse. 
4.    A member causing damage to AES properties must compensate these damages to the AES upon first request. 
5.    A member causing damage to another party than the AES will be liable for these damages and will indemnify the AES for all (damage) claims of other parties against the AES. 

16.    Official notices 

1.    All official notices from the general meeting and the general board of directors will be communicated in the form of an official notice in the form of a letter to the AES members and a communication on the AES website and will be made known to the members in this manner. The board of directors has the authority to inform the members in another manner, such as by email. 
2.    The members are expected to be familiar with the official notices as of their date of publication in the AES letter or on the AES website. 
3.    A copy of the statutes and general regulations will be available to all members via the website.