Some great tips from Canter PA :
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
Pack the following:
Other things to consider:
Questions You Should Ask Your Transporter
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
Pack the following:
- a first aid kit, both human and equine
- an extra halter and lead rope
- horse treats or grain
- a bucket
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)?