Due to the spread of COVID-19 and the subsequent restrictions imposed, we are required to make some alterations to our walk-on mare procedures. We have modelled our protocols on the system successfully used throughout Europe during the recently concluded Northern Hemisphere breeding season.

Floats:

Please come to the rear of the covering shed into the loading race, where our staff will disinfect the handles and latches on your float, and unload your mare/mare and foal. Your mare will be covered and loaded back onto your float by our staff, who will be wearing gloves at all times. Please remain in your vehicle throughout.

Trucks and commercial transporters:

One of our staff will meet you in the loading/unloading area and direct you on which yard/stable to place your mare/mare and foal into. Please remove your head collar, take it back to your vehicle and remain in your vehicle while your mare is covered. Once your mare has been covered, our staff will place her back in the same yard or stable. You may then put your headcollar back on and load your mare. We will assist with loading at any time needed, while adhering to social distancing regulations.

Should you need to drop your mare off and return for her at a later time, again one of our staff will direct you on where to leave your mare. Please remove your headcollar and take it with you until your return to pick up your mare.

**Please note that covering times will be staggered at 15 minute intervals to avoid traffic build ups. Please do your best not to arrive too early or late if you will be waiting while your mare is covered.

One of our team members will be happy to provide you with water, tea or coffee while you are waiting, and will only handle drinks while wearing clean gloves.

Any persons entering Swettenham Stud must adhere to current state and local government COVID-19 restrictions that are in force and subject to change, such as wearing face masks, social distancing and obtaining travel permits.

I have no doubt that you will assist us with implementing these practices to keep yourselves and our staff safe and to continue to keep our industry operating. Should you have any queries at any time, please do not hesitate to contact us and we will do all we can to assist you.

Thanks in advance for your compliance.

Kind Regards,

Jason Robinson

Swettenham Stud