New Equine Identification Regulations Make Microchipping Compulsory

Thursday, June 28

New Equine Identification Regulations Make Microchipping Compulsory

We would like to inform all our breeders and owners of AES registered horses that the new Equine Identification Regulations have been put before Parliament. The regulations require that all horses, apart from wild ponies, are microchipped, regardless of year of birth. This is a change from the previous regulations, which stipulated that this was a requirement only for horses born after 2009. The new requirement comes into force on 1 October 2020, so please make sure that you arrange to have all your older horses microchipped by then. 

The new regulations also give new enforcement powers to local authorities. From 1 October this year, local authorities will be able fine offenders up to £200 when they are found to be in breach of the regulations.

The purpose of these new regulations is to be able to track and trace horses, which will improve welfare and biosecurity. Please note that owners of horses are required to notify the studbooks of changes in ownership. The AES is committed to update your horse's records on the Central Equine Database within 24 hours of receiving your notification. This will help ensure up to date information is available to those who safeguard animal welfare.

If you want to find out more, the Regulations and the accompanying Explanatory Memorandum are published at:

 
If you have any questions about what the new regulations mean for you, please do not hesitate to contact our office, we are always happy to help!

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