Standardbred Freeze Brand

Question
Hi,
  We just bought a 10yr old Standardbred from a horse trader that is supposedly retired. He does have the freeze brand on the right side of his neck. Where can I go to find out his history?

Answer
Hi Kristen.
  If you go to http://pathway.ustrotting.com/search/index.cfm you can find out (if your horse is a Standardbred) his name, age, birthday, registered name, breeding, markings and last registered owner. If your horse is indeed 10 years old (foaled in 2001) there should be the letter X in his freeze brand. Also, if he is a Standardbred, his freeze brand will be a combination of 6 numbers and letters. The freeze brands are usually 1 letter and 5 numbers (for example X99718) or 2 letters and 4 numbers (for example XD2510).
  For more detailed information, you would probably have to pay for a Pathways search. (I think it's about $2 per inquiry.) Another thing you could try is contacting David Carr at the United States Trotting Association. His e-mail is dcarr@ustrotting.com, or you could try stats@ustrotting.com. His toll free number is 1-800-800-8782 ext. 1, but I don't recommend contacting them by phone at this time of year. (It's one of their busiest times.)
  If I can be of any additional help, please let me know! I'd also be interested in finding out what you learn about your new boy. I think you'll love Standardbreds--they are a really great breed to be around. Check out this link: http://standardbreds.ustrotting.com/life_after_racing.cfm  It's all about life after racing for Standardbreds. They really are a versatile breed! Here's an article from this month's Hoof Beats magazine about a Standardbred who is now working as a Police Horse in Philadelphia:  http://www.hoofbeatsmagazine.com/on_track.cfm#b
  Thanks again for buying a Standardbred! (If you need info about adopting another, drop me a line.) May you have many long, happy years with your new friend :)))
Anne Stepien