General Transportation Tips

Some of these tips will vary depending on if you are transporting yourself or using a commercial shipper.

Check your state guidelines for health paperwork by visiting: http://www.aphis.usda.gov/import_export/animals/animal_import/animal_imports_states.shtml

Or call your state veterinarian. Their phone numbers are provided on our website in the document named State Animal Health Officials.

Pack the following:

• First aid kit, both human and equine
• Extra halter and lead rope
• Horse treats or grain
• Water and Bucket
• Hay

Research farms that offer overnight boarding along your route:

• www.horsemotel.com
• www.horseandtravel.com

Other things to consider:

• Talk with your vet about giving your horse things such as UlcerGard/GastroGard or electrolytes
• Provide ample hay and fresh water
• Consider wetting the hay if it is dusty
• Maintain sufficient air quality in the trailer
• Allow your horse’s head to reach his knees to prevent respiratory illnesses
• Be a sympathetic driver; be mindful of pot holes, sharp turns, sudden stops etc.
• If you stop, be sure to park in the shade
• Allow extra time to load your new horse; most track horses are accustomed to transport but your rig may be different to him, so be patient.
• Rest your horse for a week after a long trip

Questions You Should Ask Your Transporter

• What methods of payment do you take? When is payment due?
• How often do you stop and check the horses? Will the horses be unloaded to rest?
• Do you provide hay and water for the horses?
• What size stalls are offered?
• How soon can shipment be arranged?
• Do you recommend I wrap my horse’s legs?
• Will you put a horse in a stall at the destination if no one is available to meet you at the time of drop off?
• Should I blanket my horse?
• Do you use more than one driver on long hauls?
• What type of insurance do you have?
• Is my horse covered by your insurance?
• Do you have attendants with the horses or video cameras in the trailer?
• Does the cost of the trip change due to the number of horses you are hauling at that time?
• Are the horses’ heads tied or are they free to move about (in a box stall)?

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