HOW TO PROTECT YOUR HORSES AND PREVENT CRIME

Make a police report of stolen horses, missing tack equipment, cut fences or gate locks, criminal mischief, etc.
Understand that thieves involved in equine crime know what they are doing.

Be vigilant at all times and keep an eye open for strangers
Get to know the neighboring businesses and neighbors; exchange emergency contact information.
Keep log of visitors. Example: Name of visitor’s organization, person’s name, vehicle details, date and time of visit, and ask for their business/card.
Compile an inventory of tack and equipment. Keep photographic records of equipment.

Equine Identification Tips:

Maintain written and photographic records of your horses! Take clear color photographs on a stand up view of the left side, right side, head on and tail on. Also photograph all four chestnuts on the horse’s legs. Take individual photographs of any special facial markings or distinguishing patterns. Write down details such as horse’s height, color and any distinguishing features. Consider obtaining a method of permanent identification, such as a microchip implanted into the ligament under the mane line and then ensure that this microchip is registered to you with the manufacturer.A lip tattoo or a freeze brand may also prove beneficial for identification purposes.

Security Tips:

Place signs on fences stating that the horses are security-marked
Secure gates with close-shackled padlock and pad bar
Install lights; do not let thieves use the cover of darkness
Install video camera surveillance systems along fence lines in remote pastures. If that is not possible, install “dummy” cameras to give the appearance of a surveillance system. They are available on the internet for under $20
Ensure gate hinges cannot be unscrewed
Mend broken fences
Secure equipment and supplies inside a building when possible; if not, out of view
NEVER leave head collars on the horses at night
Immobilize horse trailers when not in use

Know who you are selling your horse to:

Beware of “killer” buyers who will take your horse either to slaughter or to auction
Keep written records of who buys or takes your horse
If your horse is of a registered breed, make sure to register and document. Florida Statutes specifically protect registered horses, or any registered hybrid, from any person who willfully and unlawfully, by any means whatsoever, kills, maims, mutilates or causes great bodily harm to them. This is a felony of the second degree.
Require references, pictures of ranch where your horse will be kept and, especially, an equine veterinary reference who will be taking care of your horse
Buy Back/Take Back Agreement: Require buyers to sign a “buy back/take back” agreement. Insist that you be given first right of refusal if your horse is to change hands.

Other Tips:

Keep your home locked and set alarms
Lock your vehicles and keep valuables out of sight
Photograph jewelry, valuables, and electronics including serial numbers

PALM BEACH COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

District 8 – Wellington

14000 Greenbrier Blvd., Wellington, FL 33414

Emergency: 911

Non-Emergency: 561-688-3400

Administration: 561-688-5447