EQuiChip® is a community event involving microchipping and registering horses on a national database, helping protect equine welfare in New Zealand through positive identification.

Founded by Companion Animals New Zealand in 2023 following the catastrophic events of Cyclone Gabrielle, EQuiChip® was first held in the Hawke’s Bay and Wairarapa communities with more than 200 horses microchipped and registered. Last year's weather events saw a heightened awareness of the need to identify all companion animals – including horses – and take proactive measures in preparing for unforeseen circumstances such as national disasters, biosecurity threats, or theft.

Six EQuiChip® events will be held this year between May and November in Taupō, Cambridge, North Auckland, West Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch – with the first in Taupō on 26 May. The 2024 series aims to microchip and register between 400 and 500 horses.

Professor Nat Waran, Director at Companion Animals New Zealand, says the return for a second year of events marks a pivotal moment for horse welfare in New Zealand.

“Microchipping is an inexpensive and permanent method for identifying animals and is common practice in New Zealand for cats and dogs,” says Professor Waran. “What we are keen to promote is that equine microchipping and registration is also essential for identifying and safeguarding New Zealand's horse population. We are seeing a greater recognition among horse owners, and equine industry bodies alike, of the need for permanent identification and traceability – for not only reuniting animals with their owners when lost, but also mitigating biosecurity risks and the aftereffects of national emergencies. This improves welfare outcomes for animals and their owners.

“The latest microchips can even measure a horse's temperature at the chip implantation site, offering a safe and quick alternative to traditional methods.”

Events will occur primarily on Saturdays or Sundays and are managed by Companion Animals New Zealand in partnership with local veterinarians, equine organisations and volunteers. The cost for horse owners will be minimal compared to regular microchipping costs, encouraging as many horse owners to come along and ensure their animal is easily identifiable now and into the future.

The process, akin to a routine vaccination, involves the insertion of a microchip the size of a grain of rice, into the horse's neck by a veterinary professional. The microchip number is then linked to the horse and owner details on the New Zealand Companion Animal Register. Approved Users (vets, SPCA, animal control officers etc.) carrying universal scanners can easily read the chips, aiding in swift identification and contact with the registered horse owners/guardian’s details associated with the horse – even in emergencies. Animals that are registered have been found to be three times more likely to be reunited with their owners.

“While Companion Animals New Zealand facilitates the creation of the events, we are an animal welfare charity and we rely on generous sponsors, the local equine community and veterinary clinics to deliver them,” continues Professor Waran. “EQuiChip® is a testament to collective efforts towards ensuring the well-being and safety of horses across New Zealand. We hope many more areas will opt to host their own event and reach out to us to be guided on how to do so!”

For further information, event bookings, and queries about hosting an event, please visit www.companionanimals.nz.