United States stakeholder insights on genetic testing for equine health and breeding

The S1094 United States Department of Agriculture Multistate Research Project is a collaborative effort utilizing equine genetics and genomics to improve horse health and well-being. It also provides educational resources and genetic testing tools to equine industry stakeholders.

A survey assessed the knowledge, priorities, and information sources of U.S. horse owners and enthusiasts regarding equine genetic testing to inform future outreach and research efforts.

An online survey was distributed from March to October 2024, targeting horse owners and enthusiasts across the U.S. Four hundred and twelve participants from forty-four states completed the survey. Demographic data, horse use categories, details about sources of genetic information and interest in genetic testing were collected and analyzed.

Most survey participants were horse owners, primarily within age ranges of 31-50 (33.6%) and 51-70 (33.3%) years old. The most common use categories were sport horse and stock horse. Participants expressed confidence in their genetics knowledge, relied primarily on breed/disciplines organizations and universities and secondarily upon social media and veterinarians for information. Participants expressed strong interest in genetic testing for diversity and performance traits. Broadly across horse use categories, there was great concern for arthritis, colic/intestinal disease, laminitis, metabolic disorders, and tendon/ligament issues - all of which are complex genetic traits requiring collaborative efforts to discern levels of genetic involvement.

Survey results highlighted the need for continued outreach and horse owner education, as well as further development of genetic testing tools to support informed decision-making in the equine industry.