4 weeks before your trip: Make sure you have researched all travel requirements for the state you plan to enter. Find out if there are any special vaccination recommendations or disease concerns for the state you plan to enter. Set up an appointment with your veterinarian to have the certificate of veterinary inspection completed, to have your horse’s blood drawn for the Coggins test, and to obtain any recommended vaccinations.

3 weeks before your trip: Schedule an appointment with the local brand inspector if this is one of the requirements for the state you plan to enter.

2 weeks before your trip: If your veterinarian has not been out to do your Coggins and Health certificate by now, get on it!

1 week before your trip: Arrange to pick up the paperwork from your veterinarian or confirm that it’s in the mail so that you receive it in time. Once you receive it, go over all details to make sure all information is accurate.

Last minute details: Put your paperwork in your truck—and make sure it’s the same truck that will be hauling your horse. Don’t get caught with your paperwork in a purse or a tack box that won’t be traveling with your horse. This can be a problem when your horse is stopped at the border and there is no paperwork to be found!

Flying Changes : magazine for northwest sporthorse enthusiasts
19502 NE 134th Place : Battle Ground, WA 98604 USA
tel. (360) 687-0203 : fax (360) 687-4898 : mail@flyingchanges.com