Evacuation Preparedness for Horse Owners

Adapted from the AAEP

Check List – BEFORE an Event

  • Consider placing a microchip or tattoo on each horse for ease of identification.

  • Make sure trucks and trailers are in safe and functional working condition and be sure vehicles have full tanks of fuel.

  • Keep insurance coverage current and adequate.

  • Make sure all horses are trained to load onto a trailer.

  • Place visible identification markings on every horse with owner contact information

    • This could be a dog or cattle tag on their halter, duct tape with information written in sharpie, or something braided into their mane

    • Halters should be fire-resistant and non-nylon

  • Prepare an ID packet for each horse including age, sex, breed, color, registrations, unique ID photos, microchip numbers, Coggin’s and health certificates if applicable.

  • Have a plan in place of where you can haul your horses to. Find several alternative housing locations and routes.

  • Writing down any special feeding instructions, list any medications with dosage, and record the name and phone number of your prescribing veterinarian

  • Be sure all vaccinations and medical records are current. Consult your veterinarians for other recommended immunizations or tests.

  • Have fresh water (10-20 gallons per horse per day) and hay available for 48-72 hours.

  • Have enough cash available for fuel and provisions.

  • Have a small first aid prepared

    • Cotton roll

    • Cling wrap

    • Gauze pads

    • Sharp scissors

    • Rectal thermometer with string and clip attached

    • Antiseptic soap

    • Latex gloves

    • Saline solution

    • Stethoscope

    • Clippers

Logo of the American Association of Equine Practitioners with a horse head within a circular design, set against a background of a mountain and people riding horses in open landscape.