SHIPPING REGULATIONS

By Valerie I. Smith, D.V.M.

Transporting your horse can be a stressful event for you and your horse. The last thing you want is to be stopped by a DOT or State Health Regulatory Agent. So when crossing state lines, it’s a good idea to have your paperwork handy and in order.

To travel across state lines with livestock, horses included, you must have a health certificate saying that your horse is healthy and free of contagious diseases when you left home. Also, all states have a requirement for a negative coggins test. Some states require one done every 6 months others require every 1 year. Regardless, you must know what the regulations are from state to state in case you are asked for your paperwork.

Your veterinarian can contact the state veterinarian of the state of your destination to double check on what requirements are needed in that state. State requirements tend to change from time to time and may fool you.

In Kentucky you would contact Dr. Don L. Notter, Kentucky Dept. of Agriculture Animal Health Division, 100 Fairoaks Lane Suite 252, Frankfort, Kentucky 40601. The phone number is (502) 564-3956. In Tennessee: Dr. John R. Ragan, P.O. Box 40627, Nashville, Tennessee 37204-0627. The number is (615) 360-0120.