Horse owners reminded of required testing

With Knott County’s Spring Horse Trail Ride less than a month away, horse owners should be aware that two important documents are required for each horse that attends equine events — record of a Coggins test, and a health certificate. State officials arrive at such events with no prior warning, and will turn away those without the proper paperwork.

Coggins testing involves bloodwork that must be sent to a lab. Local veterinarian Dr. Carol Combs-Morris advises that horses should have the test done by April 21 to ensure results arrive in time for the spring ride.

Testing is available at two clinics nearby — Letcher County Outpost (606-633-8804) and Beaver Creek Animal Clinic in Floyd County (358-9913).