You have officially bought your first import, now what!?

I have compiled a list of the most frequent asked questions along with the helpful tips and tricks I have learned myself along the way.

What do I feed them? : Imports do not come with any sort or grain or feed so I suggest transitioning slowly onto whatever grain you feed while offering unlimited hay. I also suggest at least one round of 30 days of Succeed which I will provide for a Gold to Blue purchased horse, free of charge.

Can I ride him/her when they get here? : I suggest at least 3-4 days of absolutely no riding and ample turnout.  Then I do long hacks (with friends if possible) on the buckle for 2-4 days before I ask them to do any sort of work. The first few days of work I do long, low, and stretchy flatwork without putting too much pressure on them, keeping it short and sweet. After that, I say you’re good to start into more work.

What shots/vaccines do they need? : Irish horses typically only get flu shots in Ireland. I suggest starting them on their vaccines to whatever season is closet to importation but absolutely consult with your vet, as I am not one!!! For example if I import in May, I start them with spring shots. If I import in Dec, I start with fall shots. I usually have Coggins pulled when they arrive to my barn. I start them on a worming schedule with the rest of the barn.

Body Work : Just like us, traveling is tiring on the body and mind and requires time to adjust. I have found most come over very body sore from the stress of import. The Connemaras are also notorious, in my experience, for being sore in their back and hind end. I suggest anything like chiropractic, Pemf, and massage within the first week or two while they’re settling in. And then maintenance work after that as needed.

Extras : For spring/summer imports, have fly gear ready!! They’ve never had to deal with flies like ours so I get mine fly sheets, masks, and boots!