THE SPORTS DESK
Betsy Carter’s Horse Scene: Out-of-state shows will require permit
IF YOU SHOW out of state and haul your horses with you, there is a new permit you must have: the Equine Interstate Event Permit.
Effective immediately, Virginia is offering the permit in lieu of the multiple 30-day health certificates owners need for travel in the southeastern states. The permit is recognized by Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North and South Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and West Virginia.
New York is planning to allow the use of this permit, but for now, those planning to take their horses there should contact New York in advance to confirm the acceptance of the EIEP.
To obtain an EIEP, horse owners must see their large animal veterinarian to submit the application. Horse owners will need a current Coggins certificate; get a Certificate of Veterinarian Inspection, which verifies a horse’s health; and complete an application before an EIEP will be issued.
If officials on show grounds have reason to suspect your horse’s health, they will want to see the permit, and you will have
to show that your horse is healthy by taking his temperature and by briefly evaluating his health for signs of illness. Seek instruction from your vet if necessary to obtain these skills.
Temperatures and physical exam findings must be recorded on a travel itinerary. Horses also will need to be identified by either a microchip or by a set of three current digital photographs. A processing fee will be charged to the veterinarian.
Betsy Carter can be reached at The Free Lance–Star, 616 Amelia St., Fredericksburg, Va. 22401; or by fax at 540/373-8455.
