Gemlik Horse

Gemlik Horse is a sturdy, medium-sized riding horse breed raised in the Gemlik district of Bursa Province, Türkiye. Adapted to the regional climate and geographical conditions, this breed holds a significant place in local animal husbandry and equestrian culture.

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The Gemlik Horse is a sturdy, medium-sized riding horse breed raised in the Gemlik district of Bursa Province, Türkiye, known for its ability to adapt to environmental conditions.

These horses are categorized into four groups according to age: foals aged 0–6 months, yearlings aged 6 months to 3 years, colts aged 3–4 years, and adult horses older than 4 years.

Measurements of withers height, chest circumference, and cannon bone circumference are presented in table form according to the defined age groups.

The Gemlik Horse has a medium-sized head with expressive eyes. The withers are well defined; the back line shows a slight forward slope while the loins are straight and strongly connected. The croup is lower and slightly sloped compared to the withers. Pigmentation is present in the hooves. The coat color of these horses includes bay, chestnut, black, gray, and variations of these base colors. They have developed a strong ability to adapt to environmental conditions and are characterized by high cognitive capacity and learning ability.

Each Gemlik Horse is evaluated as an individual sample.

Examination of these horses includes general visual and manual assessments, weighing and measurements, age determination, and other fundamental methods. Semen evaluation is performed on adult males, and genetic disease screenings are conducted on all adult individuals. Additionally, ultrasonography and radiographic examinations are applied.

Examination and test reports include information on the location and laboratory where the examination was conducted, as well as the names, positions, and professions of the officials who performed the procedure and signed the report. The date of examination, review of vaccination records, preventive measures taken against factors that may affect examination results, and the dates and numbers of ultrasonography and radiographic records are also specified, along with the date and number of report issuance.

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The “Gemlik breed” horses raised at the Gemlik Military Veterinary School and Training Center Command, part of the Turkish Armed Forces (TSK), are used in state protocol ceremonies and various competitions. Horses completing their basic training up to the age of four are transferred to the Cavalry Sports Training Center Command of the Army War College. Subsequently, these horses are assigned to units including the Presidential Complex Equestrian Unit, where they are employed by the Turkish Army Cavalry Regiment for welcoming visiting heads of state and during Type A official ceremonies. To date, 244 individuals of the Gemlik breed have been raised, and they also participate in domestic and international horse training competitions, earning recognition as the “dignified face” of the TSK.

Information regarding each horse is prepared in a legible and permanent form and affixed to a label for transport. During the handover process, the recipient records the details in an official log. The label includes the name and title of the owner or company, registered trademark if applicable, the horse’s name, group affiliation, identification number, and the date of the report.

Transportation of young and adult Gemlik Horses must comply with health and hygiene standards. Necessary precautions are taken to prevent injuries or damage during loading and unloading.

The Gemlik Horse is bred and raised within the Gemlik Military Veterinary School and Training Center Command located in the Gemlik district of Bursa Province. Export of these horses abroad is permitted only with the authorization of the relevant command.