What health document is required for horses traveling interstate?

The requirement for a health certificate issued within 30 days is essential for horses traveling interstate as it serves to confirm that the horse is free from contagious diseases and is in good health at the time of travel. This certificate is usually issued by a licensed veterinarian and includes vital information about the horse, such as its identification, vaccination status, and health examination results.

States have different regulations regarding the movement of livestock, and the health certificate is a way to protect the local agriculture and livestock industries by minimizing the risk of disease spread. While other documents, like a vaccination record, may be needed for health management, they are not universally mandated for interstate travel. Similarly, brand inspection documents and pseudorabies certificates pertain to specific regional regulations or diseases that are not applicable to all horses or all states. Thus, the health certificate is the most universally accepted and required document for the safe and legal transport of horses across state lines.