In a joint decision by the Animal Health Trust, Thoroughbred Breeders' Association and Weatherbys, the processing of all British Thoroughbred DNA samples will be moved to Weatherbys Scientific's laboratory in Ireland for the remainder of the 2020 breeding season. The decision was reached stemming from the AHT's inability to assure the processing time of samples.
Weatherbys Chief Executive Russell Ferris said: “The AHT's relationship with Weatherbys goes back very many years and they have provided both us and thoroughbred breeders with an outstanding level of service when processing DNA samples for foal registration. However, our first priority has to be around the needs of thoroughbred breeders and ensuring that they are looked after at this the busiest time of year for foaling and the registration of foals. The processing of DNA samples is a central part of the registration procedure and having confidence around this element of work is critical at a time when there is already so much uncertainty.”
The service transfer, which will require samples now be directed to Weatherbys Wellingborough office, will be reviewed by the AHT and TBA at the end of the year.
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