Invitation to Participate in Groundbreaking AMR Research
Horse owners throughout England are being encouraged to engage in a pioneering study aimed at enhancing the understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in healthy equines. This initiative, known as the HealthyHorseAMR project, is spearheaded by the University of Liverpool and is supported by funding from the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD).
The primary objective of the HealthyHorseAMR project is to identify effective surveillance methodologies for monitoring AMR in horses. This project is part of a broader series of VMD-funded initiatives designed to address existing gaps in the UK’s AMR surveillance framework. It follows the successful launch of a global first study on AMR in healthy cats and dogs, which was conducted by Scotland’s Royal College (SRUC) in 2025.
The Significance of AMR in Public Health
AMR has emerged as one of the most pressing public health challenges worldwide. It arises when bacteria evolve to resist the effects of antibiotics, complicating or even preventing the treatment of infections. Alarmingly, antibiotic-resistant bacteria can be present in healthy animals, posing a risk of transmission to other animals and humans.
The UK has established a long-term vision for managing AMR, with the aim of containing and mitigating its impact by 2040, as outlined in the National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance 2024–2029. A key aspect of this plan is the enhancement of AMR surveillance across both human and animal health sectors.
While the UK has implemented robust AMR surveillance systems for certain livestock categories, including pigs and poultry, significant gaps remain in the monitoring of companion animals and horses. Effective surveillance of AMR in healthy horses is particularly challenging, necessitating tailored approaches suited to the equine sector.
Understanding the Equine Population in the UK
Recent estimates indicate that approximately 847,000 horses inhabit the UK, with ownership distributed across around 374,000 households, in addition to those housed in professional environments such as racing yards. The close bond between horses and their human caretakers creates potential pathways for the exchange of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
The research funded by the VMD aims to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating various sampling techniques and identifying optimal strategies for future surveillance of AMR in healthy horses. The outcomes of this research will yield critical insights into the dynamics of resistant bacteria within the UK equine sector, facilitating the early detection of emerging resistance trends.
Engagement Opportunities for Horse Owners
As part of the HealthyHorseAMR project, researchers at the University of Liverpool are currently conducting a veterinarian-centric study during the first phase. The subsequent phase will expand the initiative to include citizen science, encouraging horse owners to actively participate in the research.
Horse owners and keepers residing in England are invited to take part by filling out a questionnaire and submitting a faecal sample from their horse. Following registration, participants will receive a sampling kit by post, which includes pre-paid return packaging and detailed instructions for sample collection.
The samples collected will be utilised to assess surveillance methodologies and identify the most effective strategies for ongoing monitoring of AMR in healthy horses. Those responsible for horse care, including trainers, are also encouraged to contribute.
Contributing to National AMR Strategies
This research represents a vital advancement in the establishment of comprehensive AMR surveillance for healthy horses and will play a significant role in broader initiatives aimed at improving understanding of AMR in animals, ultimately benefiting both animal and public health.
Professor Gina Pinchbeck from the University of Liverpool expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to provide essential evidence and inform best practices for horse recruitment and sampling in future surveillance efforts. This initiative is a critical step towards a cohesive One Health AMR surveillance system in the UK, and participation from the equine community is highly encouraged.
Dr. Tamsin Dewé, Head of AMR Surveillance and Evidence at the VMD, noted the importance of this study in addressing critical evidence gaps in the field. The VMD is dedicated to supporting innovative research that safeguards both animal and human health as they work towards comprehensive AMR surveillance across the UK’s animal populations.
How to Participate
If you are a horse owner or keeper interested in contributing to the HealthyHorseAMR citizen science study, please visit the designated website to register your details and become part of this vital research initiative.