Columbus, OH — Since its inception in December of 2020, the USTA has partnered with the University of California – Davis to assist with a research project entitled, “Genetic Investigation of Traits of Economic Importance in Horses.”

Though it has been a short amount of time in the realm of research, progress has been and continues to be made, but more abnormal foal DNA samples are still needed to continue understanding what these causes may be. Like other breeds of horses, there have been oddities that are only known due to them appearing in their descendants down the line. Catching these anomalies before they become a larger issue is something that the USTA and UC Davis would like to help prevent as best as possible.

“From a breed registry standpoint, I cannot stress enough to our membership, the importance of industry support for this study. Dealing with the situation in the actual moment, may pay dividends down the road for the entire Standardbred industry. Make participation a priority,” said USTA COO and Director of Registry TC Lane.

Horse DNA – – UC Davis Veterinary Genetics Laboratory Photo.

To participate, we request that any breeder or owner(s) submit samples for DNA testing for stillborn foals or from those with any apparent abnormalities at or after birth, no matter the age or how small they may seem. Small samples are better than none and though small, it still contributes to the research project. Examples of abnormalities are, but not limited to, cleft palates, wry noses, missing eye(s) or limbs, cataracts, lack of hair, inguinal hernias, cryptorchidism, uncorrectable limbs, idiopathic heart murmurs, etc. If the foal has shown any signs of something appearing even slightly abnormal, we ask that you let us know.

This study is being conducted to collect and utilize DNA samples to identify genetic traits of economic importance in the horse. The overarching goal of this project is to empower breeders with the knowledge to make more informed mating decisions as well as contribute to the knowledge base of equine biology.

To participate in the study, a submission form, consent form, and photos of the foal should be submitted to the USTA. All blood and/or hair samples should be sent to directly to UC Davis to preserve the quality of the sample. The forms are available online at this link.

Blood samples are preferred; however, hair samples may also be submitted. Blood tubes are available upon request.

To obtain or get further information on the forms or request blood tubes, please contact Gabby Fleming at gabby.fleming@ustrotting.com or by calling 877.800.8782, ext. 3231.

Any data collected as part of participation in this study will remain confidential, but any of this data may be used for scientific purposes including publication of results without identifying a particular animal, owner, or breeder.

Samples with identification should be sent to: Dr. Rebecca Bellone/Elizabeth Esdaile, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory, Old Davis Road, Davis, CA 95616-8744.

Participation in the study is voluntary and any participant has the right to withdraw from the study at any time. There is no financial obligation on the part of the participant.

The USTA will share any results from this study that are made public or published. We thank you for your assistance with this study and we hope to continue to help inform the world and preserve the health of the Standardbred breed.