By Brenna Angel
http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wuky/local-wuky-969485.mp3
LEXINGTON, Ky. – A new online database is targeting horse lovers seeking thoroughbreds and current owners seeking a new home for their retired horse.
The Jockey Club, which is the breed registry for all thoroughbreds in North America, added Thoroughbred Connect this week to its online services.
"Folks can log on to our interactive registration website, provide some basic information, and then if they're willing to provide aftercare they can indicate the names of the horses in which they've expressed an interest."
Jockey Club Executive Director Matt Iuliano says Throughbred Connect can also be used by owners to let people know when their horse is finished racing or breeding and ready for a place to retire. He says it's designed to serve a variety of people interested in thoroughbreds.
"The person who bred the horse, the farm who bred the horse can indicate their willingness to provide after-care for that horse all the way to the far end of the spectrum, organizations who are interested in providing aftercare for thoroughbred horses who actively seek thoroughbred horses in order to place them, such as rescue groups or rescue organizations."
The free database serves as the link for contact information. It's then up to the interested parties to negotiate details of the transaction.
Iuliano says more than 200 people have already signed up at ThroughbredConnect.com.