HWSD (Hoof Wall Separation Disease), a genetically inherited disorder of the hoof wall which has been diagnosed in a very small percentage of Connemara ponies* is of concern to purchasers and breeders alike, as it affects the welfare of any pony that inherits two copies of this mutated gene and is thereby affected (HWSD/HWSD). By inference if that pony remains in the herd it also affects the overall quality of the herd. When purchasing a Connemara pony always check the Lifetime Document/Passport to make sure you know the HWSD status of the pony before you buy. Owners, breeders and dealers may well advertise this fact, but do check! If purchasing at a mart or sales check the passport in the sales office before you commit yourself. Remember ‘caveat emptor’ (buyer beware). If planning on a private sale ask to have the pony tested if this has not already been done. In Ireland the test is carried out by Weatherbys’ Scientific Laboratory and is currently the best available. It would not be in your interest to buy an affected HWSD/HWSD pony for the reasons outlined above. All ponies now registered since 2016 have been tested for HWSD – this information is recorded on the pony’s passport and stamped in the back: HWSD/HWSD, N/HWSD or N/N To ensure the continued success of the herd please breed responsibly from two choices: N/HWSD (carrier) with N/N (not affected) or N/N x N/N *See www.cpbs.ie for full details on HWSD Connemara Pony Breeders Society, The Showground, Clifden, Co. Galway Phone 095-21863 www.cpbs.ie Facebook/Instagram