Articles at Horse Nannies

How Carefully Do You Drive?

If you have ever been in the back of a moving trailer, you will know how hard it is to balance and anticipate the movement of the vehicle. In particular, young and inexperienced horses will often struggle with the art of staying balanced, and if they do fall, they can suffer horrible injuries. Obviously, it is the job of the driver to ensure that the horse has a safe trip. Before setting off, there are some things to bear in mind. Firstly, make sure those leg wraps fit. Many a horse has fallen because a leg wrap has slipped under the hoof and made traction and balance difficult. Secondly, ensure that the chest and rump bars are an appropriate height so the horse can use them to assist with balance. Most importantly, watch how you, as the driver, take those corners and turns! If a driver behind you is impatient, ignore them and focus your attention on your horse and how he is traveling. Being in a hurry is the single most dangerous thing you can do!

How Long Will You Be Traveling?

Obviously, your travel preparations will differ depending on the distance. If your trip is more than two or three hours, you’ll need extra precautions. As a general rule, you should give your horses a break every three hours and allow them to drink, and if possible, graze. Horses are designed to graze for long hours, so they secrete mucus whether they are eating or not. In order for these fluids to drain, the horse’s head needs to be lowered and he needs to be chewing to open the guttural pouches. Standing in cramped quarters with their heads upright is unnatural and can lead to respiratory problems.

Do You Have Enough Hay and Water?

Because horses are designed to graze most of the day, trailering long distances without any foraging can be risky. Therefore, make sure you bring enough hay to offer to your horse during the trip. Because hay requires chewing, this keeps the stomach and digestive tract functioning, reducing both the risk of ulcers and colic. However, whilst fibrous hay should be offered frequently, concentrates and grains should be avoided during and up to 12 hours prior to a long trip, as these are rapidly digested, leaving the stomach vulnerable to gastric acids. As some horses can be fussy drinkers, consider bringing plenty of water from home, or get your horse accustomed to drinking water flavoured with molasses so they will accept water from sources other than home.

Is Your First Aid Kit Packed?

Just as you might pack a first aid kit for yourself, it’s important that you’re prepared for injury to your horse. Pack bandages, wound dressing ointment, a thermometer, stethoscope, antibiotic powder, and sedative paste in case of an emergency.

The rule of thumb is to bring more than you think you might need. After all, it is better to be safe than sorry, especially when your horse’s health may be on the line.

What Does the Weather Look Like?

The weather—both at home and at your destination—will influence what you pack for your horse and how you transport him or her. If you expect the weather to be significantly different at your destination, pack appropriate layers of clothing for you and your horse.

When traveling in hot conditions, make sure your horse has enough ventilation in the trailer, and take frequent stops for water breaks. Blankets are best avoided during heat, and whilst most people transport their horses in protective leg wraps, be aware that these can add to the problem of overheating. During hot weather, weigh up the possible risk of cuts and bruises against that of heat stress. If using wraps, ensure they are made of some natural, breathable material, such as those leg protectors with sheep skin lining.

In cold temperatures, close some of the trailer windows to avoid your horse standing in a cold draft, and use adequate blankets to reduce the risk of shivering, which can lead to fatigue.

Do You Have Stable Away Arrangements?

Long trips will benefit from arranging one or more Stable Away along the route, not only for overnight breaks, but also for unloading during the day. Whilst most showgrounds have horse facilities, private horse properties often offer more choices, convenience, and comfort for your horse. Making these arrangements before you leave home gives peace of mind that your horse will have an appropriate, safe place to rest along the way and/or at your destination.

Many local horse owners with extra stalls offer stable away services, which is essentially Air BnB™ for horses! Not only will you be sure your horse has a safe, clean place to stay, but you’ll also get to meet fellow horse owners along the way!

Are you Looking for a Stable Away? – Learn more here

Are you Offering a Stable Away? – Find out more here