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Sponsored by Upper Egypt Group
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Horse Boxes & Horse Trailers
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Most horses travel perfectly happily in horse boxes or
trailers, provided that they have been sensibly and sympathetically introduced to them and not subsequently frightened by inconsiderate driving.
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Horses are sensitive to mood, so avoid showing signs of
nervousness, haste or excitement.
Allow plenty of time for loading and unloading.
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Preparation
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It is most important to check periodically that the floorboards of the
box or trailer are not showing signs of rotting, that the tires are in good condition and that the brakes are sound.
Incorrect tire pressures and faulty springs can cause towing problems and
discomfort. Make sure that, unless provided with floor matting, the box or trailer is well bedded down with straw or shavings, and that all fitments are secure, well-oiled and easy to operate.
Always check your trailer coupling, ramps, side doors, legs and lights
(including indicators).
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On A short Journey
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When going to a meet or rally, etc., there is no reason why a
horse should travel partially or completely saddled up. If the horse is traveling with a bridle on, always put a head collar over the bridle and do not tie him up by the reins which should be over his
neck? the slack being taken up with a knot, or twisted round his neck, if necessary. If the reins are very long, they may be looped behind one or both
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On A Long Journey
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It is advisable? and especially so with a young horse's fit
bandages, knee caps and, in the case of a doubtful traveler, hock boots as well, to prevent injury. You should bandage over gamgee, which should come right down over the coronet, to avoid damage from
"treads".
Should the journey necessitate a period of eight hours or
more continuously in the box or aircraft, it is as well to feed a bran mash the night before to guard against constipation. There after feed as appropriate to the horse's condition, fitness and
forthcoming work program.
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Loading
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* Never ride a horse into a trailer or horsebox. Always lead
him straight up the ramp.
* Look straight ahead yourself and don't look round your
horse.
* If the horse hangs back do not pull at him.
* Do not tie the horse up until you or an assistant has put
up either the bar, the breaching straps or the ramp. If you don't do this, he may run back, fight against the rope, panic and do himself a serious injury: it is better for him to go loose.
* When transporting a single horse, put him on the off side
of the trailer or box as he will travel more smoothly on the crown of the road.
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Horses Travelling Together
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Provided they get on well together and are not confirmed biters and
kickers, most horses travel quite happily without a partition, which may be useful if one of the horses is a bad traveler and will not settle in a single compartment. However, there is a risk that the horse may
tread on each other, which, if their shoes are fitted with road-studs, could be serious.
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Horses usually travel quite happily by air provided that they have a
compartment that is wide enough to allow them to spread their legs and maintain their balance.
A capable attendant able to deal with panic or fright must accompany a
horse. Attention should be paid to clothing. It is particularly important that suitable rugs, boots or bandages, a tail guard and a poll-pad are worn. The poll-pad is designed to protect the poll region from blows
when passing through low doorways or under low beams, and to minimize the development of the injury known as poll evil.
Before undertaking a journey by air, seek the advice of someone with
knowledge and experience of this form of travel.
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