The Horse Passport Agency has been launched to cope with the huge demand from owners who still need the compulsory equine passport.

The government announced on 14 February 2002 that all equines would need a passport from the 1 January 2004. Penalties for failing to obtain a passport can be up to £5000 or one month's imprisonment. Demand is still very high from owners and so The Horse Passport Agency launched its self last month to help owners obtain this necessary document.

The agency, recognised by DEFRA, issues identity passports for horses with no known breeding for just £14 each. There are no hidden costs as the form is completed by the owner without the need for a veterinary surgeon, and so is one of the most reasonably priced available.

With this quick and simple method it is not surprising that the agency is sending out over 2,000 forms a day and another 200 are being downloaded from their website. Forms can be obtained by calling 0870 241 8263 or from www.horsepassportagency.org

The agency was established by Andrew Davis, who managed the Stud Book department at Weatherbys and the British Horse Database for six years. Using this invaluable experience he set up the agency to provide a professional and helpful service for owners.

Andrew's message to the public is "Owners have just 12 weeks to apply for a passport, or get their existing passport updated. Don't leave it until the last minute because you will find it much more difficult to complete your horse's markings when it has a winter coat or is clipped!"

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