Transport is part of everyday life for many horses, whether travelling to a competition, going trail riding, visiting the vet or moving to a new yard. However, even horses that are used to travelling can experience stress or discomfort during a journey.
By taking a few precautions before, during and after travelling, you can significantly improve your horse's comfort and well-being. Discover our tips for making every journey as comfortable as possible.
Why can travelling be stressful for a horse?
Unlike us, horses have to constantly adjust their balance to acceleration, braking, turns and uneven road surfaces. This constant muscular effort can be tiring, particularly on long journeys.
Other potential sources of stress include:
- an unfamiliar environment;
- vehicle noise;
- vibrations;
- heat or cold;
- separation from other horses;
- lack of experience, particularly in young horses.
Careful preparation can help minimise these sources of discomfort.
Getting your horse used to travelling
Comfort starts well before the day of departure.
If your horse rarely travels in a trailer or horsebox, take the time to introduce them to the vehicle without pressure. Allow them to load and unload calmly, reward them when they remain relaxed and avoid making every loading session immediately lead to a journey.
These training sessions can help create a positive experience and reduce stress during future journeys.
Check the condition of your trailer or horsebox
A well-maintained vehicle contributes directly to your horse's comfort.
Before every journey, remember to check:
- the tyre pressure and condition;
- that the brakes are working correctly;
- the lights;
- the fastenings and closures;
- the partitions;
- the floor;
- the non-slip rubber matting.
A clean, dry and stable floor helps reduce the risk of slipping and improves comfort throughout the journey.
Ensure good ventilation
Air quality is essential.
A poorly ventilated vehicle can quickly become hot and humid, particularly in summer. Good airflow helps to reduce sweating, remove dust and reduce the risk of respiratory irritation.
However, avoid direct draughts on your horse, particularly in cold weather.
Choose suitable protection
Travel protection can help reduce the risk of injury if your horse loses its balance during the journey.
Depending on your horse's individual needs and preferences, you can use:
- travel boots;
- stable boots;
- bell boots;
- a tail guard if required.
Make sure all protective equipment is correctly fitted. Poorly positioned protection can itself become a source of discomfort.
Adapt your driving
Even the best equipment can never compensate for rough driving.
To help your horse maintain its balance:
- anticipate braking;
- take corners smoothly;
- avoid sudden acceleration;
- adapt your speed to the road conditions.
Smooth driving helps reduce muscular fatigue and stress for your horse.
Managing feed and hydration
Your horse should have access to water before departure and as soon as you arrive.
During the journey, a hay net can help keep your horse occupied and encourage chewing, which may help them relax. Use good-quality hay and make sure the hay net is positioned at a safe height.
For journeys lasting several hours, plan regular stops to check your horse's general condition and offer water whenever it is safe to do so.
Avoid feeding a very large meal immediately before travelling.
Take breaks on long journeys
During long journeys, regular stops allow you to check:
- the temperature inside the vehicle;
- the condition and position of the protective equipment;
- your horse's breathing;
- their hydration.
Even if your horse remains inside the vehicle, these checks are important for identifying any potential problems as early as possible.
Choose suitable bedding
A comfortable floor can improve stability and help absorb moisture.
Depending on the type of vehicle, you can use:
- wood shavings;
- straw;
- or simply a good-quality rubber mat combined with absorbent bedding.
Clean bedding also helps reduce the risk of slipping.
Adapt travelling conditions to the weather
In summer, try to travel early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the hottest part of the day.
In winter, make sure your horse is not excessively sweaty before setting off. A lightweight travel rug can be useful for some clipped horses, but it should not prevent heat from escaping effectively.
The aim is to maintain a comfortable temperature throughout the journey.
Check your horse after travelling
The journey does not end when you arrive.
Take a few minutes to check:
- your horse's general condition;
- for any injuries;
- their hydration;
- their breathing;
- that they are moving normally and comfortably.
After a long journey, give your horse time to walk quietly before returning to physical activity.
Common mistakes to avoid
Certain habits can negatively affect your horse's comfort:
- travelling in a poorly maintained vehicle;
- driving too fast;
- forgetting to check the ventilation;
- using poorly fitted protective equipment;
- loading a stressed horse without adequate preparation;
- neglecting hydration;
- failing to check your horse's condition on arrival.
Avoiding these mistakes can significantly improve travelling conditions for your horse.
In summary
Your horse's comfort during transport depends on several factors: gradual preparation, a well-maintained vehicle, smooth driving, appropriate ventilation and careful attention to their well-being before, during and after the journey.
Every horse responds differently to travelling. By observing your horse's behaviour and adapting your routine to their individual needs, you can help make every journey calmer, more comfortable and safer.
