Travelling with Horses: How to Maintain Welfare Standards with Care and ProtectionStress-Free!

At Equimade, we understand the challenges of maintaining horse welfare while travelling with horses. Transporting horses requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure their comfort and safety.

This guide will provide you with practical tips for horse welfare when ttravelling with horses. From pre-travel preparations to essential equipment and in-transit care, we’ll cover everything you need to know for a smooth journey.

Pre-Travel Planning for Horse Welfare

Veterinary Examination

Schedule a comprehensive veterinary exam at least two weeks before your journey if you are crossing boarders or if you are about to buy a new horse. Your vet should assess your horse’s overall health (including heart rate, respiratory function, and temperature). They’ll check for signs of illness or injury that could worsen during travel. Update vaccinations if needed – many destinations require proof of recent vaccinations.

Documentation Essentials

Collect all necessary paperwork well in advance. This typically includes your horse’s passport, health certificate, and proof of vaccinations. Some countries may require additional documents, so research your destination’s requirements carefully. Keep copies of all documents in a waterproof folder (easily accessible during your journey). For the UK, there are special regulations – check them out here. 

Selecting Appropriate Transportation

Choose the right transportation for your horse’s comfort and safety. Whether you’re using a trailer or horsebox, ensure it’s well-maintained and suitable for your horse’s size. Inspect the ventilation, flooring, and padding. If you’re renting, thoroughly check the vehicle before use. 

Planning Rest Stops

Create a detailed travel schedule that includes regular rest stops. For longer journeys, plan rest stops according to your horse’s needs and the specific requirements of your journey. During these stops, offer water and assess your horse’s condition. If possible, allow your horse to stretch their legs in a safe area.

Preparing Your Horse

Start preparing your horse for travel well in advance. Practice loading and unloading in short sessions to build confidence. Gradually increase the time your horse spends in the trailer or horsebox (starting with just a few minutes and working up to longer periods). This preparation will help reduce stress during the actual journey.

Now that you’ve laid the groundwork for a safe and comfortable trip, let’s move on to the essential equipment and supplies you’ll need for your horse’s journey. Proper gear can make a significant difference in your horse’s travel experience.

What Equipment Do You Need for Safe Horse Travel?

Ensuring your horse’s comfort and safety during travel requires careful preparation and the right equipment. Here’s what you need to pack for a smooth journey:

Protective Gear for Your Horse

A well-fitted halter and lead rope (designed with safety in mind) provide secure control during loading and unloading. And then when comming into the transport vehicle using something that is engineered for safe horse transportation – The EasyConnect Travel tie-ups.

• • Strong and reliable and retained from the original EasyConnects design
  • All smooth edges when the gate is open
  • Easy and quick to attach and use 
  • Ensures quick automatic release in emergency situations

• • Extra protective cover guards against wear and tear
  • Designed to withstand the unique challenges of horse transport vehicles

• • Fully functional emergency release system
  • Activates if a horse panics, reducing injury risk
  • Addresses the flight instinct of confined horses
  • Something to hold on to on the halter after a release
  • Light-weight for the horses
  • Reduced noice levels for horses and handlers 

• •  Added protection ensures extended lifespan
  •  Maintains functionality despite frequent use in transport conditions

For longer journeys, consider using a travel rug. An innovative design offers protection and comfort, helping to regulate your horse’s body temperature during travelling with horses.

Essential First Aid Supplies

Pack a comprehensive equine first aid kit. A well-stocked kit should include everything you will need to treat an injury or stabilize a serious injury until your vet arrives. Don’t forget any medications you might need when travelling with horses. Keep emergency contact numbers (including your vet’s) easily accessible.

Food and Water Provisions

Bring more hay and feed than you anticipate needing. Unexpected delays can happen, and maintaining your horse’s regular feeding schedule is vital for their digestive health. Pack hay bags for easy access during stops. 

Try to feed forage, like hay and straw, on clean ground so the horse can stand and eat as natural as possible. It is always good to steam the hey so it is a dust free environment, especially if using a hay bag or hay net that is set up in a higher possition when travelling with horses.

For water, bring your own supply in clean containers. Some horses are particular about water taste, so familiar water can encourage drinking and prevent dehydration. Consider electrolyte supplements for long journeys or hot weather. Administering electrolytes in even 3 L of water one hour before lengthy travel, competition, or any strenuous exercise can support hydration and performance.

Comfort Items

Quality equipment is an investment in your horse’s wellbeing when travelling with horses. While it might seem like a lot to pack, being prepared will make your journey smoother and safer for both you and your equine companion.

Now that you’ve gathered all the necessary equipment, let’s explore how to manage your horse’s comfort and safety during the actual journey.

How to Keep Your Horse Comfortable During Transit

Loading and Unloading Safely

Start with a calm, patient approach to loading. Use positive reinforcement techniques and avoid rushing the process. Research suggests that horses may show signs of reduced stress and fatigue, and be able to balance more easily, when transported in certain orientations.

For unloading, allow your horse to exit at their own pace. Stand to the side of the ramp to avoid being knocked over. Always have a helper present during loading and unloading for added safety.

Maintaining Optimal Temperature

To ensure the welfare of horses during road transport, it is essential to manage microclimatic conditions effectively. Monitor the temperature inside the trailer closely. The ideal range is between 10-21°C (50-70°F).

The temperature inside vehicles should not exceed the upper critical limit of 25°C dry bulb temperature.  This helps reduce the risk of welfare consequences associated with exposure to high effective temperatures. Maintaining this temperature threshold is crucial when travelling with horses for their comfort and well-being.

In hot weather, maximize ventilation and consider using cooling wraps on your horse’s legs. In cold conditions, use appropriate blankets but be cautious of overheating.

Regular Checks and Rest Stops

For journeys over 4 hours, plan a 20-30 minute rest stop every 2-3 hours. During these stops, offer water and assess your horse’s condition. Look for signs of distress such as excessive sweating, rapid breathing, or lethargy. Always allow your horse to lower their head during travel and stops. 

Reducing Travel Stress

To minimize stress, maintain a consistent environment. Use a high-quality lead rope and training halter for secure control. Play calming music or white noise to mask road sounds. Some studies suggest classical music can lower heart rates in horses during transport.

Consider using lavender-scented products in the trailer. A 2018 study in the Journal of Equine Veterinary Science found that lavender aromatherapy reduced signs of stress in transported horses, but make sure to check it thoroughly before using it.

Final Thoughts

Travelling with your horse requires meticulous planning and attention to detail to maintain their welfare. You must schedule veterinary exams, gather necessary documents, and familiarize your horse with the transport vehicle well in advance. Investing in quality protective gear, first aid supplies, and comfort items demonstrates your commitment to your horse’s well-being during travel.

You need to remain vigilant when travelling with horses. You should perform regular checks, control the temperature properly, and schedule rest stops to reduce stress and maintain your horse’s health. Implementing stress reduction techniques and staying attuned to your equine´s needs will make the journey more pleasant for both of you when travelling with horses.

At Equimade, we support you in providing the best care for your horse during travel and beyond. Our innovative products, like our high-quality lead ropes, are designed with your horse’s comfort and safety in mind. You take significant steps towards ensuring welfare on the road when travelling with horses.