Iris scanning is an accurate way to identify horses.

Identifying one horse from another might not seem like a challenge, but for some horse owners, breed associations, and event organizers, an accurate form of identification ensures the right horses are where they need to be, when they need to be there. Recent developments in iris scanning have led to a new form of equine identification, and research has indicated that the horse’s eye could be the most telling identifier.

David Knupp, of Global Animal Management, explained that a digital photograph of an equine eye can act as an accurate and detailed identifier. A specially designed infrared camera is used to measure numerous points on the iris. Then, an algorithm is used to create an alphanumeric code that serves as the horse’s identification number