Have Horse Will Travel

be a positive one and it always pays to be patient calm and have plenty of time. Loading can be a daunting firsttime experience for your horse so take it slowly and make each step of the process inviting and rewarding perhaps feeding your horse in the trailer or lorry and then leading them quietly out before eventually progressing to short journeys. Finding an experienced trainer to help you in the first instance can reap dividends in helping you and your horse feel confident about travelling in the future.
Backwards forwards or sideways?
Some horses prefer to travel facing backwards while others may prefer to face the direction of travel or stand on the diagonal. Trailers and partitions come in various styles and its useful to try before you buy to make sure you choose a vehicle suited to your horses size and preferences. Trailers usually come with a removable partition sometimes giving a single horse space of the whole trailer in which they can spread their legs and find their balance will help them travel more comfortably.
Dressing for the occasion
Protective travel gear is essential to help prevent injuries while your horse is in transit. Leg protectors in the form of travel boots or bandages plus a tail guard and a poll guard are commonly used but remember to acclimatise your horse to wearing them in the stable and around the yard before surprising them with unfamiliar gear on the day of travel. Depending on the time of year a sweat rug may be needed but on a warm day its best not to risk overheating your horse which may cause discomfort and distress.
In case of emergency
Always pack a first aid kit plenty of water and an extra haynet in case of journey delays or a breakdown. A spare lead rope and headcollar are also a good idea. Remember to have emergency veterinary contact numbers to hand should a problem arise and try to avoid travelling alone asking a family member or a friend to accompany you will make the journey easier safer and less stressful.