Freezemarking
The Benefits Explained
Why is freezemarking important?
In the event that your horse strays or is stolen (unthinkable though that may be) what can you do to improve their chances of recovery?
We recommend having your horse freezemarked.
What does this involve?
Freeze-marking is the placing of a permanent mark on your horse (common locations are the wither, shoulder or hind-quarters).
This does not hurt the horse and is suitable for all horses over 12 months old.
The benefits include provision of a visible deterrant to would-be thieves and having your horse freezemarked may also lead to reduced insurance premiums.
How Is It Done?
Freezemarking is a painless, humane procedure, in which super-chilled markers are pressed onto the horse's skin.
This destroys the pigment (which makes the hair coloured), so that the hair regrows white, and the unique mark can be seen.
For lighter coloured horses the marker would be used for slightly longer so the hair does not grow back at all. These markings are only done on the shoulder and are called "bald markings".
It should ONLY be carried out by a firm who specialise the technique. Under no circumstances attempt to brand your horse yourself or be persuaded to let a friend do it.
A unique combination of letters/numbers is branded on each horse. This "mark" is entered on a national computerised register along with the horse's description and the owner's details.
The marking is typically placed either under the saddle area or on the shoulder but can also be behind the saddle or on the quarters if this is the only area where darker pigmented coat exists. A freezemarked horse will not be marked down in the showring.
How Much Does It Cost?
Prices are around £55.00 and a membership fee is payable each year to retain your horse's details on the database. We highly recommend Farmkey for this service. They are professional, well-renowned and have a special FAQs section on their website if you have any questions on the process or aftercare. For further information,
click here to be redirected to the Farmkey Website
Alternatively, you may wish to find out more about another security measure you can take. Have you considered
Microchipping Your Horse?
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