The most important thing to do before shipping your horse is to make sure it is in good physical health. If your horse is injured or sick, then it should not be placed in a trailer or even shipped. You risk aggregating your horse’s condition or passing the illness to other animals.
Your horse transporter will likely require health certificates, so a visit with the veterinarian is necessary. Even if your horse carrier does not require certificates, it is a good idea to get a vet’s approval before shipping your horse.
Horse Transportation Preparation Tips
- Teach your horse to load and unload well before the trip. This is important even if you are not shipping your horse, in case of a medical emergency.
- Check your horse’s shoes and ask your transporter’s advice on bandaging.
- Avoid tranquilizers, unless specifically recommended by your vet.
- Plan your horse shipment so that your horse has plenty time to relax and rest when it arrives.
- Prepare a list of specific instructions about how you would prefer your horse to be shipped for the driver.
