In the wild world of horses, there’s a hot topic buzzing around the stables: to microchip or not to microchip your beloved 4-legged friend? Have you been considering microchipping your equine companion?
Microchipping has been common practice for dogs and cats, and its numerous benefits are now making it more popular in the equine world. While it may seem like a small procedure, it can make a big difference to the safety and well-being of your beloved horsey companion. Here are five compelling reasons to consider microchipping your horse:
1. Permanent identification
A key benefit of microchipping your horse is the ability to provide permanent identification. Unlike traditional methods such as branding or tattooing, which can fade and become difficult to read or can even be altered, microchips provide a reliable and tamper-proof means of identifying your horse. Each one contains a unique registered identification number, making it easy to reunite lost or stolen horses with their rightful owners. In situations such as natural disasters or theft, having a microchipped horse greatly increases the chances of a successful reunion. Phew!
2. Industry standard
Did you know many breed registries and competitions now require horses to be microchipped as part of their registration process? Microchipping ensures you’re ready to participate in events and activities without any hassle or risk of disqualification. Whether you’re entering dressage, show jumping, eventing, or any other competition, having your horse microchipped lets you tick that box and enjoy more adventures with your horse. In many countries it is already a legal requirement for all horses to be microchipped.
3. Enhanced security
Microchipping provides an added layer of security for your horse. Think about it—how many handsome bay geldings are there in your province alone? If the unthinkable happens and your horse is stolen, the microchip provides undeniable ID for your horse and proof of ownership, making it easier for law enforcement to recover stolen animals and prosecute offenders.
4. Expect the unexpected
Unfortunately, natural disasters are becoming much more prevalent, and most of us know someone who has been affected by floods, fires, or other weather-related crises. In recent wildfires in western Canada, horses were found in the next province over, thousands of kilometers from their home farm. Halters, ropes, and tail ribbons can be lost or even hazardous, but a microchip is safe and super-easy. Even when the weather is fine, surprises can pop up from nowhere. Picture this: you’re out for a leisurely ride, wind in your hair, sun on your face, living your best life. Suddenly, your horse spooks at her own shadow and you find yourself in the dirt, the sound of your horse’s hoofbeats fading as he gallops into the great beyond. You might think your faithful friend could find her way home blindfolded, but is it really worth the risk? Thanks to that tiny chip, the authorities can identify your horse and reunite you with her.
5. International protection
In an increasingly interconnected world, microchipping protects your horse worldwide with a universal ID. Whether you’re traveling out of province, across the border or overseas, get ahead of the import/export requirements for no-hassle travels. Microchipping also helps authorities know who may be in the area and at risk in case of disease outbreaks or other emergencies, so they can mitigate potential threats to you and your horse’s health.
Made by horse enthusiasts, for horse enthusiasts—because we know how precious our hooved heroes are—Equine Register’s brand-new app The Digital Stable is made for you as a horse owner. We offer a whole range of features to enhance your horse ownership journey, because protecting your horse or herd is what we love to do.
Lost & found
If they’ve bolted, or headed out for a solo wander, then Equine Register is here to help keep your horse safe. Use the app’s ‘Report Your Horse Missing’ feature to report your horse as missing. When your horse is found and their microchip scanned, you’ll be relieved to receive a prompt notification on and offline, and can make tracks to your lost soul for a beautiful reunion.
At your fingertips
With all your horse’s documents in one organized place on the Equine Register app (goodbye scattered paperwork, hello organized simplicity!), you can create detailed profiles for each of your horses, complete with vital information including photos, identifying markings, and health records. In the event of your horse going missing, having all their detailed information readily available can significantly aid in their recovery and getting them home safely.
Make sure your 4-legged best friend is safe and easily identifiable with proper identification with a microchip. Talk to your veterinarian today about microchipping your horse and reap the rewards. Our horses are cherished members of our families and deserve the same level of protection as any other pet; whether they're part of a competitive equestrian team, working on a ranch, or providing companionship.
Remember to keep those contact details up to date to ensure a speedy reunion. Because really, when it comes to your beloved equine companion, peace of mind is priceless.
Download the Equine Register here via the App Store or Google Play. And tell your neigh-bours.
