When planning to move your horse to a new boarding barn, it’s helpful to make a to-do list to ensure that you get everything necessary done before the day of the move. Knowing that you have accomplished what you need to do before the move will make the actual moving day less stressful on both you and your horse. Need to put together a to-do list? These items will get you started.

Update Vaccinations

In moving to a new boarding barn, your horse will be exposed to many new horses, along with the stress of the move. Such a situation means that he will be more at risk of contracting any contagious disease that might be present, so it’s best to have your vet out to update your horse’s vaccinations. Be sure to schedule the appointment a few weeks out before your horse is supposed to move, so that the vaccinations have time to take effect and build your horse’s immunity. Some barns may even require records of particular vaccinations – find out which, if any, vaccinations your horse needs to have.

Have Coggins On Hand

Any time you transport your horse you should have a copy of your horse’s current clean Coggins with you. Almost any boarding barn will require a Coggins before you are allowed to unload your horse, so make sure that you have a current copy of your horse’s Coggins with you on the day of the move.

Purchase Current Grain and Hay

Moving to a new barn is a stressful experience for most horses, and their digestive systems can be more sensitive during such a time. To help ease your horse’s transition to a new barn, and to help prevent possible colic episodes, purchase some of your horse’s current grain and hay to bring with you. Feed only the current grain and hay for the first two or three days that your horse is at the new barn, then gradually begin mixing in portions of the new grain and hay that he will be eating. Make the feed transition slowly, gradually increasing the portions of the new feed while reducing the portions of the old feed.

Consider an Ulcer Preventative

If your horse is easily stressed and you suspect the move will upset him, consider putting him on an ulcer preventative. Preventing ulcers is far easier (and less expensive) than treating them is. Begin giving the preventative a few days before the move, and continue to give it for a week after the move. Taper the preventative off slowly to allow your horse’s system to adjust. Aloe vera can also be used as a stomach buffer for ulcer prevention.

Label All Equipment

Don’t forget to make sure that either your name or your horse’s name is on all of your equipment, especially on common items that can easily be confused like blankets or fly spray. Don’t forget a label with your horse’s emergency contact information that you can attach to the door of your horse’s new stall.

Making the move to a new boarding barn can be made easier by taking care of these chores ahead of time.

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Original Source: Tips to Prepare for Your Horse’s Move to a New Boarding Barn