Technology that scans the eye (specifically the iris) of a horse does exist. Iris scans are said to work because every horse has unique iris features. However, the equipment is very expensive, not widely used and provides no on-demand proof of ID or ownership unless you have an iris scanner. In order for the system to work, the eye must be scanned and entered into a database. Then, in order to verify that the horse IS the horse, another eye scan is needed to verify who he is.

The problem is one of expense. Scanners are often over $3,000.00. Horse owners and vets are then left with nothing that they can use on an everyday basis for proof of ownership, health certificates or event entry.

The cost to private veterinarians and horse owners is prohibitive.  Some suggest that the lack of an invasive procedure is appealing. However, the new mini microchip is so tiny that it is less invasive than most injections and certainly very affordable at under $10.00 for a chip and as little as $80 for a scanner.