The Kentucky Horse Council (KHC) recommends that event organizers notify all event participants in advance (via show bill, flier, etc.) that the law requires them to provide proof of a current negative Coggins test and Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI) when attending a public equine event.

A Coggins test is a simple blood test that determines whether a horse is a carrier for equine infectious anemia (EIA), an incurable blood-borne disease. The disease can be spread by using contaminated needles or through biting flies.

Once a horse is diagnosed with EIA, federal law requires the horse to either be euthanized or placed under lifetime quarantine. This stringent eradication program protects other horses from exposure. Through a rigorous testing and enforcement program the United States has dramatically decreased incidence of EIA over the past 30 years.

For horses traveling within the state of Kentucky, a negative Coggins test and in-state Health Certificate are valid for one year from the date of issue. Out-of-state travel requirements vary by state and depend on current disease outbreaks. All interstate travelers hauling equines should check with their veterinarian and the office of the state veterinarian in the state of destination to garner proper credentials before hauling