Moving is always a big ordeal, but it becomes a little trickier when you factor in your favorite four-legged equestrian friend. By working with Chuck Simpson, you'll save yourself a great deal of stress and make your relocation easier for both you and your horse.
We live in California and wanted to buy a horse farm in Tennessee. We talked to Chuck several times before flying out and were so impressed with him we felt we made the right choice. He was honest, truthful and a pleasure to work with.
Moving Homes with Horses?
Whether you're buying an equestrian property in Middle Tennessee with an appropriate barn for your horse, or you've decided to find a boarding stable near your home to house your animal, it's important to be prepared for the move and everything it will entail! Here are some tips for finding the right boarding facility, preparing for your move, and making sure your horse has everything it needs during the move itself.
What Kind of Boarding Facility Will be Best for Your Horse?
Do Your Research
If you're buying an equestrian property in Middle Tennessee, you may need to temporarily board your horse at a nearby facility. Or, you might be searching for a longterm boarding solution to house your equine friend. Whatever the case may be, it's important to complete thorough research on nearby facilities, tour them, and read reviews when applicable.
Before you begin touring facilities though, it's important to come up with a list of criteria for your horse's new home. Do you want them to be outside most of the time? Can he be with other horses or does he need to be alone? Should he have a stall with a run? Be thorough and considerate of your horse while coming up with your list, and then use it to select specific facilities to inspect.
Get Your Equine Friend a Checkup
And Make a Veterinarian Plan for After the Move
Make sure your horse is healthy well in advance of the move. Take him to the veterinarian to perform a couple of tests, and ask for copies of a certificate of veterinary inspection to confirm that he's healthy enough to travel. For peace of mind, make sure your horse is up to date on the five major vaccines: tetanus, Eastern/Western equine encephalomyelitis (EEE/WEE), West Nile virus, and rabies.
Before the move, do your research to find a new veterinarian to resume care of your horse after the move. If you have friends in the area, be sure to ask them for recommendations. Let me know if you need help in this matter, as I have plenty of area resources for equestrian enthusiasts in Middle Tennessee.
In the Days Leading Up to the Move...
Feed and Water Your Horse Properly
Veterinarians recommend feeding your horse a diet primarily of forage in the days before the move. Eating forage is better for your horse's digestive system, and also encourages them to drink more water. Keeping your horse hydrated is important, because dehydration is a common risk during extended periods of travel.
After the move, you may want to consider giving your horse water a flavored electrolyte solution to mask the taste of unfamiliar water. Many horses have a hard time adjusting to new water sources, especially if they're moving across state lines.
On the Road
Tips for a Stress-Free Move
Take precautions with your trailer, which includes buying equipment to protect your horse's legs during boarding. Make sure your horse has time to lower their head and clear their sinuses before leading them onto the trailer. The trailer should be clean, and I recommend putting down rubber mats that can be easily hosed off. Take a break from driving every few hours to give your horse a chance to spread his legs, clear his sinuses, and eat some hay.
After you arrive at your new destination, veterinarians recommend quarantining your horse for 1-3 weeks. Stress from traveling may exacerbate any innate illnesses, so it's important to give your horse plenty of time alone to recover from the move. Watch your horse carefully for any changes in appetite, diet, or temperament during this time. And schedule an appointment with your new veterinarian as soon as possible!
Work with an Expert
When it comes to relocating to Middle Tennessee, you deserve a real estate agent who will go above and beyond to deliver the most successful transaction possible. When you choose to work with me, Chuck Simpson, that's exactly what you'll get. Give me a call today to learn more about your real estate options in Middle Tennessee.