Pet Move of the Month: Transporting a Horse Across the United States

This month's featured move shines the spotlight on Mattie, a beautiful Knabstrupper/Warmblood horse who we helped relocate from Texas to South Carolina.

Usually we move our clients' pets by air, but in this case we opted for ground transportation (this is simply a more reasonable option for a 1200 lb., 16.2 hand horse who is traveling domestically).

Find out more about horse travel, horse transport tips, and Mattie's move with her family!

What brought Mattie’s move about?

My husband accepted a new position in Charleston, SC.

Were you familiar with ground travel for horses or was this all new to you? What surprised you about the process?

I have shipped horses cross country before, but this was the first time that I worked through a service instead of directly with the shipper. It made the process much easier!

How did you prepare Mattie for the trip?

Mattie is a pro at trailering and has been cross country before, so the only prep was to give her an ulcer preventative before she got on the trailer.

How has her transition to your new home been?

She has settled into her new barn, Branch Hill, quite nicely.

What advice do you have for people who might be starting to plan their horse’s move?

Make sure the hauler is insured and that you have a cell phone number for them. Depending on the length of the trip, see if there are any options for the horse to get off the trailer and stretch their legs. Horses have sensitive stomachs, so be sure to send along some of their usual hay to help the transition.

What made you decide to hire PetRelocation to assist you?

The services were selected by my husband's work, LANE Construction. 

Thanks to Mattie's owner for sharing this move with us! Wondering how to transport a horse (or another pet) domestically or internationally? Contact us.