How To Find Out If My Horse Is Registered

Have you ever wondered if your horse is registered? Owning a registered horse comes with several benefits, including accurate record-keeping of breeding, eligibility for certain events, and sometimes added value. So, if you're curious about your horse's registration status or looking to buy a horse that's already registered, this article is for you! We'll discuss the process of finding out if your horse is registered, as well as how to register your horse if it hasn't already been done.

The Importance of Horse Registration

Registered horses provide several benefits to their owners, including:

• Accurate pedigree and breeding records
• Eligibility for certain horse shows and competitions
• Potential increased value due to registration

Understanding the Different Breed Registries

Each breed has its registry or association that maintains the genetic records and pedigrees of registered horses. Some common breed registries in the U.S. include:

• American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA)
• American Paint Horse Association (APHA)
• American Saddlebred Registry (ASR)
• Jockey Club (Thoroughbred)
• United States Equestrian Federation (USEF) - for multiple breeds

To start your search, identify which breed registry pertains to your horse or the horse you're looking to purchase.

Checking Registration Through Microchipping or Tattoos

Many registered horses have either a microchip or tattoo to identify them. These identifications often provide a link to the horse's registration information. The following are ways to use these identifiers to check registration:

Microchip Scanning

If the horse has a microchip (usually located in the neck or cheek), you can use a scanner to read the microchip number and access the horse's records. Some registries allow you to input the microchip number on their website to access registration information.

Tattoo Lookup

Tattoos, typically found on the horse's upper lip or neck, can also be used to look up registration information. Websites such as the Jockey Club's Tattoo Lookup allow you to input a tattoo number to find pedigree and ownership records.

Requesting Information From the Breed Registry

If the microchip or tattoo does not provide the information you need or if your horse doesn't have either, your next step would be to contact the breed registry directly to inquire about your horse. You can visit the breed registry's website for contact information and instructions on requesting registration information.

How To Find Out If My Horse Is Registered Example:

Let's say you have purchased a quarter horse, named Lucky, from a local seller who believes the horse is registered with the American Quarter Horse Association (AQHA). Lucky has a microchip, so you begin by scanning the chip and noting down the microchip number.

You then visit the AQHA's website, navigate to the horse lookup section, and enter Lucky's microchip number. Shortly after, you receive the horse's registration details, pedigree, and ownership history.

If Lucky didn't have a microchip, you would have to contact the AQHA, perhaps with a detailed description or photos of the horse, and they would assist you in searching for Lucky's registration information in their database.

Congratulations, now you know the necessary steps to find out if your horse is registered! We hope this guide has been helpful and provided you with the information you need to dive deeper into your horse's pedigree and history. If you enjoyed this guide, please feel free to share it on your favorite social media platforms and explore our other articles on How to Own a Horse! Learn about horse care, training, and more to ensure you and your equine companion have the best possible partnership.