Importing a horse can be a complicated and time-consuming process, but with the right preparation, it can be a rewarding experience. Whether you are looking for a top-level competition horse or a reliable partner for having fun in the show ring, there are several things to consider before you import a horse. Here are nine things to check before importing a horse:
- Discuss with your trainer or horse agent to see if the horse suits you It is important to work with someone who knows your riding abilities and goals, and can help you find the right horse match. Your trainer or horse agent can help you identify horses that match your riding style and level of experience, and can advise you on the suitability of the horse for your goals.
- Check all show results national and international Check the horse’s competition record to get a sense of its performance history. This will give you an idea of the horse’s strengths and weaknesses and can help you decide if the horse is the right fit for your needs.
- Examine all videos of the horse available When importing a horse, it can be difficult to see the horse in person before you make a purchase. Make sure to ask the seller for any videos of the horse in action, as this will give you a better sense of the horse’s movement and behavior.
- Make a clinical pre-purchase exam with recent x-rays Before making a final decision, it is important to have a veterinarian conduct a pre-purchase exam on the horse. This will help you identify any potential health issues that may impact the horse’s suitability for your needs. X-rays are a crucial part of the pre-purchase exam and should be taken and reviewed by an experienced veterinarian.
- Ask your own veterinarian to review those results It is always a good idea to have your own veterinarian review the results of the pre-purchase exam, as they can provide a second opinion and identify any issues that may have been missed.
- Talk to the seller and ask the right questions When speaking with the seller, be sure to ask the right questions. This includes any vices or bad habits the horse may have, the horse’s training and education, and how long the seller has owned the horse.
- Calculate import cost with horse transportation company Importing a horse can be an expensive process, and it is important to understand the costs involved. Work with a reputable horse transportation company to get an estimate of the import costs, including shipping, quarantine, and any customs fees.
- Possibly insure the horse before flight Importing a horse can be risky, and it is important to consider insurance to protect your investment. Work with a reputable equine insurance company to get a policy that covers the horse during transport and upon arrival.
- Make export blood test Finally, before the horse can be transported to your country, it will need to pass an export blood test. This test ensures that the horse is free from any infectious diseases and is safe for transport.
At Prīmī , we have put in the work to select horses that check all the boxes, including a pre-purchase exam, x-rays, and competition records (if any). We work with reputable transportation companies and can assist with the entire import process. We understand that importing a horse can be overwhelming, and we are here to help make the process as smooth as possible. With our commitment to quality and transparency, you can trust that the horse you purchase through Prīmī will be the right match for your needs.
