How to Microchip a Horse

Microchipping involves implanting a small radio frequency identification (RFID) tag just under an animal's skin for effective identification of the animal. The tag can be read by a microchip reader and can only be removed by performing a surgical procedure. For horses, the microchip number can be entered into registries that specialize in horse recovery in case your horse is ever lost or stolen. Microchipping can also satisfy state laws which mandate horse identification in an effort to stop the spread of certain equine diseases.

Things You'll Need

  • Sterilized, pre-packaged microchip and needle
  • Microchip syringe
  • Alcohol
  • Cotton balls
  • Microchip reader wand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Record the number on the microchip you intend to implant into your horse. It is important that this number be kept in a safe place.

    • 2

      Clean and sterilize the spot thoroughly where the chip will be implanted, using the alcohol and cotton balls. The chip will be implanted halfway between the horse's withers, about 2 inches down from the mane.

    • 3

      Attach the microchip needle to the top of the plastic microchip syringe.

    • 4

      Inject the needle into the horse, perpendicular to the horse's body. Push the needle straight in, gently depress the syringe's plunger and pull the needle straight out.

    • 5

      Scan the area with a microchip reader wand to be sure the microchip was properly implanted. If it was not, scan the needle to be sure the chip is still inside and repeat Steps 3 and 4.