Island Life Magazine Ltd August/September 2007 | Page 87
EQUESTRIAN
and permanent method of
identification. Micro chipping is
another good method (where
a tiny microchip is injected
under the horse’s skin and
can later be identified with a
scanner) but is most effective
in conjunction with freeze
marking. Both freeze marking
and micro-chipping can be
done by your vet. Another
method proving popular is hoof
branding, which can be done
by your farrier using a unique
set of irons. Whichever method
you choose it is essential to not
rely on the fact your horse is
difficult to catch. Always remove
headcollars and never leave
horses unattended at shows.
Get all your tack marked by
engraving with your postcode.
In addition, put your postcode
clearly on all your rugs and
equipment. Make sure you
advertise all the security
measures you have taken with
signs such as ‘beware of dog’
or ‘all tack securely marked’
but don’t label the tack room,
you’ll be making life easier for
thieves. Simple vigilance and
attention to your own routines
can make a difference, be
wary of strangers and keep a
notebook or even camera in
your car to record details of
suspicious people or vehicles.
Make a point of coming to
the yard at different times if
possible, so your movements
cannot be predicted.
If the worst happens,
don’t touch anything but
call the police and your
insurance company.
Sophie is hoping to hold a tack
marking event combined with
an open forum on any problems
you have in the equestrian
world. This will be advertised so
Island Life - www.islandlife.tv
life
keep an eye on the local press
and it will most likely be held
at Brickfields Horse Country.
To join Hampshire Horse
watch go on to http://www.
nfed.co.uk/horsewatch.htm this
website holds a database of
identifiable equine equipment
and horses that have been
stolen, along with photographs.
There are Horse Watch packs
available at your local police
station. Sophie is available to
do free tack marking, donations
go towards the scheme and
are appreciated. You can
contact her via email on sophie.
[email protected].
uk or Sgt Bolwell through
[email protected].
police.uk or alternatively you
can call the national number
0845 045 45 45 and ask to
leave a message (including
your details) for PCSO ILES
collar number 13227.
Photos: Top left: PCSO
Sophie Iles liasing with
local farmer Arthur Mew
at Cliff Farm, Shanklin.
Top right: Sgt. Jason
Bolwell with Arthur
checking his firearms.
Middle right: PCSO Sophie
saying hello to Angus Airways.
Bottom right: PCSO Sophie
Iles stamping postcodes into
an owners saddle to ensure
they are returned to the rightful
owners if stolen and recovered.
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