This past week was National Pet ID week and what better way to celebrate than to discuss microchipping!
If you plan to compete at recognized events, it’s important that you know the rules…and microchips are among these rules.
Originally the United States Equestrian Federation planned to roll out a new requirement that all horses in recognized events need to be microchipped by December 1st, 2025. As of January 12, 2026 they have delayed this requirement until December 1, 2026. That said if you are riding in Hunter Jumper competitions the rules are already in effect, so check each discipline’s and breed’s rulebook to make sure you are in compliance. Eventers have until December of this year…2026.
Read more about these rules in General Rulebook Section 1101 (Interestingly the rulebook STILL states 2025): GR1
And the Press release for the extension: extension-of-microchip-requirement-rule
A microchip is about the size of a grain of rice and work using radio frequency technology. These little devices are inserted into the left side of the horse’s neck in the nuchal ligament by a licensed veterinarian. They are harmless and typically stay in place with no adverse effects to the horse. The chips are inactive until a reader is used to read an electromagnetic signal, at which point the chip is “read only” and contains an identification number.
Some advances have been made over the years, and you can now get the option for a biothermal chip. These chips are capable of measuring the temperature of the horse at the injection site. This can be an excellent alternative to rectal temperatures which can fluctuate. It can also be instrumental in detecting illness or abnormalities.
These microchips are inexpensive and very beneficial. They are used at shows to identify that your horse is in fact the horse you say it is. It prevents fraud. It can help if your horse is lost during an emergency or if it is stolen.
If you own a thoroughbred, particularly an OTTB, chances are your horse is already microchipped!
Once your horse has a microchip it is there for life. Removal requires general anesthesia and deep invasive surgery; there is no need to undergo this risk. The number stays with the horse wherever it goes…the chip is unable to be altered.
I’m very fortunate to have thoroughbreds that already have their microchips!
Does your horse have one?
The Green Horseman 
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