Healthy Travel
Whether a competition horse is shipped across the city or across the nation, it’s important to make every effort to ensure the horse arrives to the show grounds in the best possible health. While many preparations are dependent on the individual animal, some are consistent no matter the breed of horse nor the discipline. Vaccines, diet, hydration, and planned rest are all essential parts of horse travel.
Interstate Travel
Each state has its own regulations for horses entering its borders. It is important to verify the health entry requirements for the state of destination, as well as the final venue. General equine entry requirements typically include a requirement for certification of veterinary inspection (CVI) and a negative Coggins test. For specific entry requirements, contact the state veterinarian’s office for the state of destination. For contact information or more equine movement requirements visit https://www.aphis.usda.gov/live-animal-import/state-regulations or https://www.interstatelivestock.com/
International Travel
For international travel, the destination country sets the horse entry requirements. Every country is unique in their requirements, but they all require the U.S. Department of Agriculture to endorse health documents completed by a private practitioner. It is important to plan ahead for the international movement of horses, as some countries have requirements such as isolation under USDA supervision for 30 days prior to export or vaccinations to be completed three months prior to export date. Timing is critical for ensuring entry into the destination country.
