Horse 
Watch
North Wales Horse Watch has been set up to prevent, reduce and
detect equine related crime. The success of the scheme relies on
the dedication of its members. Their commitment to their horses
provides a basis on which to build a range of measures which can
help to reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime.
The following information gives general guidance on a whole
range of security measures covering horses, tack, trailers,
horseboxes and stables.
Horse Identification
- Take colour photographs of your horse in summer and
winter.
- Take photographs from the side, front and behind.
- Ensure that it is standing correctly as shown in the horse
passport.
- If the horse has a particular mark or scar, then photograph
that separately, making sure it is clear where on the animal the
mark or scar is. Have several prints ready, and save on to a
computer for quick circulation if your horse is stolen.
- Ensure marks and scars etc. are shown on a suitable
diagram
Security Marking
Have your horse and valuables security marked. Marking your
horse and tack deters thieves.
Recognised methods of security markng are:
Micro-chip implant / Hoof branding / Freeze marking / SmartWater
Forensic Coding System
- Micro-chip implant: This is implanted in the
horse’s neck. The RSPCA and certain other organisations have
transceivers which can detect the signal from the microchip if the
horse is stolen.
- Hoof branding: This involves having your post
code branded on your horse’s hooves. You purchase the branding
irons and have your farrier apply the brand. It requires periodic
renewal as the hoof grows.
- Freeze marking: This is done humanely by
freeze marking a number on the horse’s body (usually on the saddle
patch) with chilled irons. This leaves a unique number for life.
Records of freeze marked horses are kept and registration papers
are issued to owners.
- SmartWater: A colourless forensic liquid that
can be used on all your valuables including your horse tack;
saddles, stirrups, headgear, harnesses, breastplates.
Horseboxes and Trailers
- As with other equipment, photograph your horsebox /
trailer.
- Consider having your trailer security marked with your post
code.
- Personalise your vehicle(s).
- Ensure vehicles are immobilised when parked, but still
available in an emergency.
- Use wheel clamps, hitch locks, car alarms, car
immobilisers.
- Park them in a well lit area at night where you can keep an eye
on them.
- Modern security devices make it difficult for thieves.
Stables and Paddocks
- Consider installing burglar alarms and security lighting.
- Use substantial padlocks on doors (do not padlock a horse in
their stable).
- Display signs that advertise that your property has been
security marked.
- It is good practice to visit paddocks and stables at least
twice a day and to vary the times if possible.
- Hedges and fences should be kept in a good state of repair to
deny the thief any opportunity to gain access.
- Gates should be padlocked and hinged.
Saddlery
- All saddlery should be security marked. You can have your tack
post-coded using a metal punch or engraving tool.
- It is not advisable to stamp your code on reins and thin bits
of leather.
- Do not be tempted to engrave your post code on any bits - this
could leave your horse with a sore mouth.
- Photograph your saddlery, especially if it is unusual. This
helps with detection of stolen goods.
- Keep a comprehensive list of all your tack. Include all
necessary details as this will help identification.
- Stolen tack is difficult to trace without saddle’s make or
identifying numbers.
For further information contact Helen Lacey, Horse Watch North
Wales Co-ordinator:
Mobile: 07828 099 340 Email: northwaleshorsewatch@yahoo.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/groups/northwaleshorsewatch/
If you see anything suspicious report it to the police
on 101.
In an emergency dial 999.