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How to Ship a Horse Overseas

Published on 08/15/2024 ⚬ Read time 6 min

how to ship a horse overseas

Preparing Your Horse for Shipping

Acclimating Your Horse to the Shipping Stall

One of the most important things you can do to prepare your horse for shipping is to acclimate it to the shipping stall. The shipping stall is a specialized stall that is designed to keep your horse safe and comfortable during transport. It's essential to introduce your horse to the shipping stall gradually, allowing it to become comfortable with the new environment.

Here are a few tips on how to acclimate your horse to the shipping stall:

  • Start by introducing your horse to the shipping stall a few weeks before the shipping date. This will give it time to become familiar with the stall and reduce stress during transport.

  • Place your horse in the shipping stall for short periods of time, starting with 30 minutes and gradually increasing the time.

  • Provide your horse with plenty of food, water, and exercise while it's in the shipping stall. This will help to reduce stress and keep it comfortable.

  • Consider adding some familiar objects to the shipping stall, such as a favorite toy or blanket, to provide your horse with a sense of comfort and security.

      How to ship horses around the world | Health & Fitness

Managing Stress During Transport

Shipping can be a stressful experience for horses, but there are several things you can do to manage stress and keep your horse comfortable during transport. Here are a few tips:

  • Provide your horse with plenty of food, water, and exercise during transport. This will help to reduce stress and keep it comfortable.

  • Consider using calming aids, such as pheromone diffusers or calming treats, to help reduce your horse's stress levels.

  • Make sure your horse is comfortable and secure in the shipping stall. This will help to reduce stress and prevent injury during transport.

  • Consider shipping your horse with a companion horse, if possible. This can help to reduce stress and provide your horse with a sense of comfort and security.

Logistics and Planning

Obtaining Necessary Documents

Before you can ship your horse overseas, you'll need to obtain the necessary documents. These documents may include:

  • A health certificate for your horse, which must be issued by a licensed veterinarian within 10 days of travel.

  • An export permit, which is required for all horses being exported from the United States.

  • A certificate of origin, which is required for all horses being imported into certain countries.

  • A commercial invoice, which is required for all horses being imported into certain countries.

It's essential to research the specific documentation requirements for the country you're shipping to, as these requirements can vary.

Arranging for Transportation

Once you have the necessary documents, you'll need to arrange for transportation. This may involve booking a flight or shipping your horse by sea. Here are a few things to consider when arranging for transportation:

  • Choose a reputable shipping company that has experience shipping horses.

  • Make sure the shipping company has the necessary equipment and staff to handle your horse's needs.

  • Research the different transportation options available, including air transport and ocean transport.

  • Consider the cost and duration of each transportation option, as well as the level of care and attention your horse will receive during transport.

Choosing the Right Shipping Method

When it comes to shipping a horse overseas, there are two main options: air transport and ocean transport. Here are a few things to consider when choosing the right shipping method for your horse:

Air Transport

Air transport is a popular option for shipping horses overseas, as it is generally faster and more convenient than ocean transport. Here are a few things to consider when choosing air transport:

  • Air transport is typically more expensive than ocean transport.

  • Air transport may not be suitable for horses that are sensitive to noise or stress.

  • Air transport requires a specialized shipping stall that is designed to keep your horse safe and comfortable during flight.

Ocean Transport

Ocean transport is another option for shipping horses overseas, and it can be a more cost-effective option than air transport. Here are a few things to consider when choosing ocean transport:

  • Ocean transport is typically slower than air transport, as it can take several weeks or even months to reach your destination.

  • Ocean transport may be more suitable for horses that are sensitive to noise or stress, as the motion of the ship can be calming.

  • Ocean transport requires a specialized shipping stall that is designed to keep your horse safe and comfortable during transport.

Shipping Stalls and Equipment

Shipping Stalls

A shipping stall is a specialized stall that is designed to keep your horse safe and comfortable during transport. There are several types of shipping stalls available, including:

  • Standard shipping stalls: These stalls are designed for horses that are traveling alone and provide a safe and comfortable space for your horse to stand and move around.

  • Double shipping stalls: These stalls are designed for horses that are traveling together and provide a safe and comfortable space for two horses to stand and move around.

  • Custom shipping stalls: These stalls are designed to meet the specific needs of your horse and can be customized to provide additional comfort and safety features.

Shipping Equipment

In addition to a shipping stall, there are several other pieces of equipment that you'll need to ship your horse overseas. These include:

  • Shipping blankets: These blankets are designed to keep your horse warm and comfortable during transport.

  • Shipping boots: These boots are designed to protect your horse's legs during transport.

  • Shipping wraps: These wraps are designed to provide additional support and protection for your horse's legs during transport.

Preparing Your Horse for the Journey

Acclimating Your Horse to the Shipping Stall

Before you ship your horse, it's essential to acclimate it to the shipping stall. This will help your horse to become comfortable with the stall and reduce stress during transport.

Loading Your Horse into the Shipping Stall

Once your horse is acclimated to the shipping stall, it's time to load it into the stall. This should be done carefully and slowly to avoid stressing your horse.

Securing Your Horse in the Shipping Stall

Once your horse is loaded into the shipping stall, it's essential to secure it to prevent injury during transport. This can be done using a variety of equipment, including shipping blankets, boots, and wraps.

Final Preparations

Checking the Weather

Before you ship your horse, it's essential to check the weather forecast for your destination. This will help you to prepare your horse for any extreme weather conditions it may encounter during transport.

Packing Essential Items

Before you ship your horse, it's essential to pack any essential items it may need during transport. These can include food, water, and medication.

Confirming Travel Arrangements

Finally, it's essential to confirm your travel arrangements with the shipping company and ensure that everything is in place for a safe and successful journey.

The Final Steps

Checking the Shipping Stall

Before you ship your horse, it's essential to check the shipping stall to ensure that it is safe and secure.

Loading Your Horse onto the Plane or Ship

Once you have checked the shipping stall, it's time to load your horse onto the plane or ship. This should be done carefully and slowly to avoid stressing your horse.

Final Check

Finally, it's essential to do a final check to ensure that everything is in place for a safe and successful journey.

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