For horse owners, there are few situations more heart-stopping than realizing your horse is missing. Perhaps it’s because a gate was left unlatched, or you had a parting of ways after a spook on the trail, or became separated due to a natural disaster such as a wildfire, flood or tornado. Luckily, new technology is turning panic into power. Instead of relying on luck, word of mouth and search parties, you now have smart, simple tools that make finding your horse faster, safer, and far more reliable.
The Canadian National ChipChecker
The ChipChecker is a free, easy-to-use tool that connects to your horse’s existing microchip, temporary ID, or Unique Equine Life Number (UELN). If your horse goes missing and someone scans their ID, the system immediately flags them as lost. The person scanning is prompted to enter their contact info — securely shared with you, the owner.
This means no frantic public social media posts, and no guesswork. Just a direct, private connection between you and the person who found your horse.
All you need is an account with Equine Register. A basic one is free, or you can upgrade for added features. And if your horse is already listed in Equine Register’s Digital Stable, you’re good to go — no extra steps required.
Say Hello to My Horse ID Tag
Microchips are great, but not everyone carries a scanner around. That’s where the My Horse ID Tag comes in.
For just $14.99 on Amazon, this rugged, food-grade silicone tag clips onto a bridle or halter and features a unique QR code. It can even be discreetly hidden in a braid for competition or travel. One scan with a smartphone and boom! — your horse’s Digital Stable profile pops up, complete with microchip number, breed registry info, and other identification details. The horse’s location is noted, the finder submits their contact info, and you get notified, fast.
“In emergencies such as floods, I’ve seen owners resort to painting phone numbers on their horses — but those wash off, and halters can be lost,” said Kristy Laroche, the National Strategic Partner Manager for Equine Register. “The ID Tag can be securely braided right into the mane and be scanned with a smartphone, making it a far safer and more reliable way to identify a lost horse.”
And it’s not just for locating lost horses. Vets, border agents, and show organizers can use the tag to access important records like Coggins tests, health certificates, and vaccination records. You can even share access to the app with your trainer, groom, barn staff or other riders for easy record-keeping and emergency contact.
Smarter Horse Ownership Starts Here
“The ChipChecker and My Horse ID tools represent a growing trend toward pairing modern technology with good old-fashioned horsemanship,” noted Laroche. “For a small investment, or no cost at all, owners now have access to a level of protection, convenience, and peace of mind that would have been unimaginable a decade ago.”
Because when it comes to keeping horses safe, every second — and every scan — counts.