Are there any laws that relate to importing horses into the United States?

Yes, there are laws that relate to importing horses into the United States. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is the agency responsible for enforcing regulations to prevent the introduction and spread of animal and plant pests and diseases. If a horse is imported into the United States, the importer must obtain an import permit from APHIS and meet certain veterinary health requirements. Depending on the country of origin of the horse, the animal may have to be quarantined for a period of time. The animal must also have an Coggins test, which tests for equine infectious anemia, and a health certificate, which lists the animal’s vaccination history. Some states, including California, also require additional documents, such as a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI). There are also specific laws relating to the importation of horses from Mexico into the United States. The importer must obtain an approved import permit from APHIS and provide proof that the animal has been tested for equine infectious anemia. The horse must also have proof that it was vaccinated for both rabies and West Nile virus and have a negative Coggins test. The horse must also be inspected by a USDA-accredited veterinarian and have an official CVI. Any horse imported from Mexico must be quarantined for a minimum of 30 days.

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