04 November 2024

Dear Breeder/Owner,

We wish to inform you that the microchipping and DNA parentage verification for the 2024 foal crop will be conducted from January to March 2025 by Onderstepoort Veterinary Genetics Laboratory (VGL). Please take note of the following updates:

1. Inflation-Adjusted Fee Increase: VGL has implemented a 10% inflation-adjusted fee increase for microchipping and DNA services. This adjustment accounts for inflation and the impact of exchange rate fluctuations on consumables.
2. Electronic Data Collection Fee: Since 2023, VGL has introduced a one-time fee per horse for lifetime electronic data collection, storage, and maintenance via the UPEquID App. While breeders were previously exempt, due to economic constraints and VGL’s cost-cutting initiatives, the full cost of R305 per horse will now apply for 2024 foals.
3. Digitising Service Fee: Breeders are encouraged to enter their horse’s data and markings through the UPEquID App, avoiding a digitising service fee of R370 per horse. If the microchipping team is required to input the data, this fee will be applied. Breeders will also need to counter-sign and confirm any markings captured by the microchipping team. An SOP and necessary forms will be distributed in December.
4. Upfront Payment Requirement: To ensure timely service and address previous financial losses due to unregistered foals, microchipping will only proceed once payment has been received.

Kind regards,

Stud Book Keeper