Hello dear Wildland Horsemanship Community,
We, Marc and I, are definitely emigrating to Colorado, USA! We will be boarding the plane to Denver on July 31, 2014
Now, of course, the question that many of you have already asked us arises: How do the horses come from Switerland to the US?
Our great adventure begins
We are not only taking our two faithful cats with us, but also our horses “Mitamita” and “Lluvia”. I would like to give you a brief overview of how everything works.
The flight
Both horses fly from Amsterdam to Chicago. Yes, that’s right – horses fly! Not with wings, of course, but safely packed in specially made transport boxes that offer them enough space and comfort. The flight itself is well organized and the staff on board ensure that the four-legged friends want for nothing.
Why Chicago?
We contacted several quarantine stations and chose the one closest to Chicago. The deciding factor was that this station allows my mare to go out to pasture during the day. This not only gives her exercise, but also some normality during the quarantine period.
The quarantine
After landing in Chicago, both horses must first go into a two-day quarantine. This measure is necessary to ensure that they do not introduce any diseases.
But this is where a difference comes into play: While the gelding “Mitamita” is released after these two days, the mare, Lluvia, has to continue in a so-called CEM quarantine.
What is CEM quarantine?
CEM stands for “Contagious Equine Metritis”, a highly contagious bacterial infection that particularly affects mares. This disease can have serious effects on the reproductive capacity of horses. To ensure that no infected animals enter the USA, mares must undergo an extended quarantine, which usually lasts about two weeks.
Why a longer quarantine for mares?
The main reasons for the longer quarantine period for mares are:
Greater susceptibility to CEM: Mares are more susceptible to this infection, which particularly affects the reproductive organs.
More extensive testing: More thorough testing is required to ensure no infection is present.
Protecting the breeding population: The US has strict regulations to protect its breeding horses from disease.
Are horses sedated?
A common question we are asked is whether horses are sedated during the flight. No, horses are not usually sedated. The flight usually runs smoothly. What will probably be most stressful is not the flight itself, but the entire journey – from the time it takes to get to Amsterdam airport to the quarantine station in Chicago and finally to us. This part of the journey alone takes about 20 hours.
The separation and the reunion
The separation during the quarantine period is certainly also a challenge. But as soon as Mitamita and Lluvia are reunited and in their large pasture on our ranch in Colorado, all the stress will soon be forgotten.
Our new life in Colorado
We can hardly wait to move to our new home in Colorado. The vast landscapes and freedom will not only be a paradise for us, but also for our horses. I will soon be telling you more about where we will be in Colorado, what we will be doing there, our new address and how the riding lessons and trainer training will continue. Because it will continue, albeit in a different form. Of course, my learning platform will also continue to grow – with new videos straight from Colorado!
We look forward to telling you more stories and adventures from our new life in the future and how you can join us live. Until then, stay tuned and hold on to the reins!
Mirjam
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