Relocating a horse to Colorado can be an exciting yet complex process. Whether you’re moving for work, better riding opportunities, or to enjoy Colorado’s stunning equestrian lifestyle, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your horse. From veterinary requirements to adjusting to the climate, here’s everything you need to consider when bringing your horse to the Centennial State.

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1. Health & Legal Requirements

Colorado has specific health regulations for horses entering the state to prevent the spread of disease. Before moving your horse, be sure to comply with the following (find more info on the Colorado Department of Agriculture website here):

Health Certificate (Certificate of Veterinary Inspection – CVI)

• Colorado requires a CVI issued within 30 days before your horse enters the state.
• Your veterinarian must examine your horse and certify that it is in good health and free from contagious diseases.

Coggins Test (Equine Infectious Anemia – EIA)

• Colorado requires a negative Coggins test within the last 12 months.
• Some boarding facilities, events, and trails may require a test within the last 6 months, so check ahead.

Brand Inspection (Proof of Ownership)

• Colorado is a brand inspection state, meaning horses must have a brand inspection certificate when transported across state lines. This has nothing to do with the horse actually having a brand and all horses need this.
• If you plan to buy, sell, or board your horse in Colorado, you may need a permanent brand inspection card (aka a lifetime card), which is valid as long as you own the horse.
• You can get a temporary travel certificate or a permanent card from the Colorado Brand Inspection Division (Visit their website).

Vaccinations & Quarantine Considerations

• While Colorado does not have specific vaccination mandates, many boarding barns and veterinarians recommend core vaccines such as:
  • West Nile Virus
  • Eastern & Western Encephalitis
  • Tetanus
  • Rabies
  • Influenza & Rhinopneumonitis (EHV-1, EHV-4)
• If your horse is traveling from a high-risk disease area, a quarantine period may be recommended before introducing them to other horses.

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2. Transporting Your Horse to Colorado

Moving a horse long-distance requires careful planning, especially for a trip to Colorado’s high-altitude environment.

Hiring a Professional vs. Hauling Yourself

• Professional Equine Transporters
  • Licensed transporters have experience handling long hauls and navigating interstate requirements.
  • Look for companies with USDOT certification and positive reviews. Don’t be afraid to ask for references.
  • Ensure they provide layover stops, adequate hay, good ventilation, and climate control for your horse’s comfort.
  • Make sure you understand their communication style and how often they will communicate.
• Hauling Yourself: If you haul your own horse, ensure your truck and trailer are road-trip ready:
  • Brakes, tires, flooring, hitch mount, and lights should be in top condition.
  • Make sure your truck can handle steep inclines and high-altitude driving depending on the location you are driving to in Colorado.
  • Plan frequent rest stops every 4-6 hours for water breaks and monitoring.
  • Having a trailer camera setup can really help with peace of mind.

Preparing for Altitude Changes

• If your horse is coming from sea level or a low-altitude state, it will need time to acclimate to Colorado’s higher elevation (5,000-10,000+ feet in some areas). Generally speaking, horses travel well to the new elevation but ensuring they are properly adjusted before asking them to work is really important.
• Avoid overexertion in the first 1-2 weeks, as horses may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness. Watch for these signs, especially in horses that are older, overweight, or in less fit condition, and don’t ask too much of your horse while they adjust.
  • Increased breathing rate
  • Mild lethargy
  • Decreased appetite
• Ensure your horse has plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration in the dry climate.

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3. Adjusting to Colorado’s Climate & Environment

Colorado’s high-altitude, lack of green grass fields, dry climate, and unpredictable weather can be a big adjustment for horses used to humid or mild conditions.

Hydration & Nutrition

• Colorado has lower humidity, meaning horses tend to drink less than in more humid states.
• Keep a close eye on water intake to prevent dehydration and impaction colic.
• Consider adding electrolytes in summer or wetting feed in winter to encourage hydration.
• Hay quality varies by region—test your hay for nutrient levels and supplement accordingly.
• Turnout can vary significantly from states with higher humidity and moisture. Most facilities in Colorado only have turnout on dry lots (dirt instead of grass).

Hoof Care Considerations

• The dry climate can make hooves more brittle, leading to cracking or chipping.
• Some horses benefit from hoof dressings or supplements to maintain moisture.
• Harder ground may require a different shoeing approach, especially for trail riding.

Shelter & Winter Prep

• Winters can be harsh, especially at higher elevations. Consider:
  • Windbreaks or enclosed shelters for turnout areas.
  • Blanketing for thin-skinned or clipped horses in extreme cold.
  • Adjusting feed for increased caloric needs in winter.
• We have sun for over 300 days a year in Colorado, and you are a mile closer to the sun than in most other locations in the country, be sure to consider:
  • Shelter and trees to help provide shade.
  • Horses with pink skin showing may need sunscreen.
  • Plenty of cool and clean water to help with the increased heat from sun.

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4. Finding a Barn or Boarding Facility

If you’re moving to Colorado without your own horse property, finding the right boarding barn is key.

Things to Consider:

• Location – Looking for facilities with the features you want near you might be a cahllenge depending on location, so be ready to expand your search if needed.
• Turnout Options – Some barns offer full pasture, while others are more stall-based. Something common in Colorado is a stall with a run (small private turnout space).
• Amenities – Indoor arenas, access to trails, or specialized care options.
• Boarding Costs – Prices range from $400 – $1,400+ per month, depending on location and amenities. But costs are typically higher than other states due to our reliance on forage from hay solely.
• Barn Culture – Western, English, competitive, or laid-back? Find a barn that matches your style!

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5. Trail Riding & Public Land Access

Colorado is a dream destination for trail riders, but it’s important to know the rules!

Trail Regulations & Permits

• Some public lands require permits for equestrian use so be sure to visit the website for any park you plan to visit.
• Coggins tests & brand inspections may be required at certain trailheads or parks.

Best Trail Riding Destinations

• Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forests (Great for experienced riders)
• Garden of the Gods (Iconic scenic trails near Colorado Springs)
• Staunton State Park (Equestrian-friendly trails close to Denver)
• Great Sand Dunes National Park (Unique terrain for adventurous riders)

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6. Connecting with Colorado’s Equestrian Community

Building a network in a new state makes the transition easier!

Join Local Equestrian Groups

• Colorado Horse Forum (CHF) – A great resource for events, classifieds, and networking! We have 3 groups, a community group, a buy/sell/trade group, and a horse showcase group. We can’t wait to see you there.
• Local Facebook Groups – There are other great topic specific groups for trail riding, dressage, and more in the area as well.
• Breed or Discipline Associations – Whether you ride Western, Dressage, or Endurance, Colorado has active groups for every discipline!

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Final Thoughts

Moving your horse to Colorado is an exciting adventure, but proper planning is essential for a smooth transition. By following legal requirements, preparing for altitude and climate changes, and finding the right boarding or property options, you and your horse will be well on your way to enjoying all that Colorado’s equestrian lifestyle has to offer!

Need more resources? Join the Colorado Horse Forum community today!