Shared or Charter
Either shared or chartered transport is available - of course, shared transport is always less expensive but is not always a direct haul and can sometimes have more stops. Emergency hauling or short notice trips are welcome.
Cost
Eastwind Stables may not be the cheapest transport company but quality and care is absolutely assured. If the price is too cheap there is usually a reason why. I pride myself on always going above and beyond normal expectations. I always offer a discounted rate to an owner if they have more then one horse to transport. The price depends and varies for each trip depending on how many horses, the locations, difficult access, single or double stall and other variables. Included with every horse is 30 minutes of load or wait time. Anything thereafter is subject to a surcharge of 25.00 per half hour. This includes if I have to wait at a show, clinic, vet or a stable.
What Do We Transport
The Eastwind trailer can accommodate mares with foals at side, weanlings, minis, donkeys, mules and studs. Puppies and small dogs are welcome in kennels. I do not mind taking a saddle, bridle and a small tupperware container free of charge. Anything more then that, may not be taken due to space and/or there could be a surcharge.
Feed, Water and Rest
I will ask for hay to accompany the horse in transport. Haybags are filled and water is offered approximately every 4 hours. Even with having the camera to monitor the horses, I still like to pull over every few hours to check and have a short rest. Depending on the horse, I may untie them from there trailer tie to allow more comfort and to stretch. Overnight accommodations are always provided if needed.
Mortality Insurance
I do NOT provide mortality insurance on your horse! If you do NOT have mortality coverage on your horse and it is a concern, a policy can easily be put into place for a very reasonable cost. If the transport horse is a sale horse, it is a good idea to discuss this with the purchaser.
Commercial Insurance
I am fully insured and hold a valid National Safety Code number. Smaller transporters, such as Eastwind, often do not bother with the proper insurance and following policies such as checking in at weigh scales and brake checks. All commercial requirements are followed and I work closely with my insurance company to ensure valid and correct coverage.
Dreaded Paperwork
Like anything else, there needs to be a paper trail. Usually everything is done by fax and/or email. I urge all clients to read carefully through everything. Anything required such as brand inspections, health papers or coggins is up to the horse owner to have ready. Anything I need to know about the horse must be disclosed.
Travel Locations
I frequent all parts of British Columbia and Alberta. I will make the occasional trip to Saskatchewan. Any other locations, I am happy to recommend another transporter or help with forwarding the horse onto another carrier.
Loading / Unloading
There MUST be someone present at the pick up and drop off locations! There are NO exceptions! I will not chase after a horse through a field (and I have done this), I will not halter break your foal, be place in a dangerous or unsafe situation! If your horse is not a great loader, please discuss this with me before hand. Many owners are afraid if they express concern about their horse not loading, the hauler will not do the job. I have no problem with a difficult loader, I just want to be prepared. PLEASE disclose any difficult driveways, access roads and special instructions (ie: nasty dogs). I will always contact both parties before picking up and dropping off. I fully understand what is like to wait around for someone - it is no fun.
