Almost every horse needs to be transported by trailer or truck at some point. For many owners and the horses themselves, this can bring a lot of stress. That's why it's always important to keep the following tips in mind to make the journey as safe as possible.
1. Prepare well
Plan your route in advance. This way, you know where there may be traffic jams, when you need to refuel, and how long you will be on the road. Knowing all this, you can start your journey well-prepared. Moreover, it's very important to drive calmly and carefully when transporting a horse. Think about braking in time for a red light, accelerating slowly, and taking corners gently.
2. Ensure enough fresh air
The temperature inside a trailer can rise quickly. Always ensure adequate ventilation by opening the windows, even in winter. A horse can handle cold better than heat. Moreover, a sweating horse can get stressed and therefore even hotter.
3. Provide a hay net
It's a good idea to offer your horse hay during transport. This gives your horse something to do and distracts it from the transport itself. Horses are used to eating throughout the day, so a hay net can provide a relaxing effect in the trailer.
See our range of hay nets4. Leg protection
Not everyone is a fan of leg protection during transport, but it can be a good choice for nervous horses. Horses that scrape or kick during transport can suffer from wounds. Transport boots can solve this problem so your horse arrives safely at its destination.
5. Choose panic snaps
To secure your horse, it's best to use a panic snap. This hook is designed to be quickly and easily disconnected. That way, you can release your horse quickly in case of panic.
Shop trailer ties6. Comfortable blanket
The temperature during transport is difficult to control. It's often warmer or colder inside than outside. To transport your horse as comfortably as possible, you can opt for a blanket. There are various transport blankets on the market today that can make transport much more pleasant for your horse, such as the Bucas Competition Cooler or the Kentucky 3D Spacer Cooler Sheet. These lightweight blankets combine the functions of a sweat blanket and fly sheet. Sweat is absorbed and annoying insects are kept at a distance.
Shop transport blanketsTherapy blankets are also popular during transport. Therapy blankets most often use a magnetic field that is said to improve circulation. As a result, the muscles stay supple and your horse will have less trouble with stiff and sore muscles. They also have a relaxing effect that can help horses remain calm during transport. Well-known therapy blankets include Bucas Recuptex, Kentucky Magnetic Rug Recuptex, and Back on Track Mesh Blanket.
So always make sure you are well-prepared when you hit the road with your horse. Leave on time so you don't have to rush. Thanks to these tips, you will arrive safely at your destination.
