Horses need to be transported for lots of reasons, but it is your responsibility to ensure they are safe, comfortable and well prepared to travel.
It is easy to forget that it is not natural for horses to be transported, and doing so badly can cause lots of problems including stress or illness. It is also very tiring for them to maintain their balance in a moving vehicle for long periods of time, and so you should do what you can to ensure they stay protected and remain healthy. Remember though, all equipment must fit correctly, be securely fastened, and must be suitable for the conditions during travel, as well as the needs of each individual horse. Your horse must also be accustomed to wearing them or they could cause more harm than good.
Horse Wear
Depending on the temperature, your horse may need to wear a fleece or cooler during travel. Make sure it is breathable and wicking, particularly if you intend on working him hard when out, so as to maintain his temperature without catching a chill, but don’t over-rug! Protective boots are a good addition to your travel wardrobe to prevent knocks and draw moisture and sweat. They are ergonomically shaped for a close fit, and the velcro straps make them super easy to apply. Alternatively leg pads with bandages will protect his legs, but you must be well trained in applying them.
You should always use a leather headcollar to transport your horse so that it can break in an emergency and reduce the impact that he may otherwise experience in nylon. They also look seriously smart and are easy to keep clean ready for next time. Using a tail bandage will prevent them rubbing the top of their tail and will help keep a pulled tail looking smart, or a tail guard is much easier to apply and ensures even pressure is maintained. Alternatively, a tail guard with bag offers the ultimate protection whilst keeping the whole tail clean from the minute he walks on the lorry.
Horse Care
There are a number of things that are super handy to have on board ready to transport your horse. A handful of treats can be a helpful aid when loading him, so have a stash of his favourite flavour prepared for when you need them. Instead of your usual leadrope, a bungee cord with a quick release panic snap can be a much safer option. They are made from strong elastic, and are available in a range of vibrant colours to match any colour scheme. An equi-ping is also a good addition to your travel luggage so you can safely tie your horse to the lorry.
To reduce mess, a hay bag is perfect for travelling. It is tough yet practical and will keep your horse entertained throughout his journey, but remember, travelling can make a horse dehydrated which can increase the risk of colic. It is important to offer them water at regular intervals, and feeding electrolytes will help encourage them to drink whilst also replacing the body salts lost through exercise or sweating. Finally, it is always advisable to carry first aid equipment for in the event of an emergency. Make sure it is clearly labelled as well as easy to get to, and remember to check expiry dates and replace when necessary.
