It is important to remember that we as transporters are in the business to move your horse with the least amount of stress on the horse as possible.  One very important aspect to preventing problems is preparation.  Adequate groundwork on your part will only make for a more pleasant experience for you and your equine companion.  Overstress on the owners part means overstress on your horses part.  BE CALM!  BE CALM!  BE CALM!

Discuss any potential problems up front before we arrive. This is for the horse and the handler's benefit.

Have the paper work ready. 

    Health Certificate - A Health Certificate is good for 30 days from date of issue.

    Coggins Tests - A Coggins Test is good for 1 year.

Please have a halter on your horse when we pick it up.  We will provide Lead ropes.

Any extra things to be shipped along with the horse?....Label your things and make a list to be given to the driver.

NO grain or rich feed 24 hours prior to shipment no matter how much you love your horse.  Usually a horse's own hay is good to supply so they are eating what they are used to being fed.  Be prepared to supply at least a bale of hay for the trip, longer trips may require more hay. 

Shipping boots or leg wraps are not a good idea.  If you really think they are necessary put the boots on and leave the horse tied for several hours to test their behavior.  A shipping boot may sound like a good idea but if the horse kicks at them continually they are not, as they may cause additional injury and also add excess heat and stress to the horse's legs. 

Our trailers are equipped with ramps and step-ups for ease of loading and unloading.

Other Considerations When Choosing A Hauler:

Find out what kind of equipment the hauler uses. Do the stall dividers have drop down rubber mats and bars on the top half of the dividers to prevent the horses from turning and biting at other?  Do you want an open stock trailer or a trailer that is specifically set up to haul horses?

Be carefull when giving a deposit or credit card number before the haul.  Once you have, you are on the haulers schedule if they have to postpone, cancel, or just don't show up.  Most deposits end up as non-refundable.

Check with other "horse people", trainers, etc., to get names of reputable haulers. - ask for references from the hauler.

Above all, feel confident that the hauler will provide your horse the safest transportation possible.