Transport a Horse

Transporting and traveling with a horse or pony is a common event for horse enthusiasts, whether it's floating your horse to a show or competition, taking a horse to the vet or farrier, or even picking up a load of horse feed. However, the transportation of a horse or pony is recommended to be done by someone who is familiar with traveling with a large trailer, or goose neck. This article refers to the transportation or horses in the main horse vehicles:- Horse Floats, Horse Trucks and Goose-necks and what you are also comfortable with.

Steps

Using a Horse Float (or Bumper Pull Trailer)

  1. Set up the trailer. Make sure that your trailer is correctly fitted and secured to your towing vehicle is well suited to towing the weight. Run a total safety check, including brake lights, tire pressure and the amount of gas in your tank. Make sure that a cell phone, horse's legal and medical documents and a map or directions are in the towing vehicle. Always be prepared for problems that might occur.
  2. Make your trailer look inviting to your horse. Horses are fundamentally claustrophobic and will rarely, if ever, walk into a small dark space. If you have a loading ramp, lower it and sprinkle some bedding over it to make it seem more familiar to your horse. Open wide all other doors and windows to let in as much light as possible. If you can, try to put some hay in a place that is clearly visible to your horse from outside the trailer.
  3. Prepare your horse for the ride. Always use a breakaway-style halter with a protective head bumper, protect leg wraps with shipping boots. You can brush your horse but it is not necessary. If it is a hot day you may want to put fly spray on your horse so your horse doesn't stomp as much, minimizing the possibilities of injuries. Blanket him if appropriate, keeping in mind that it could be significantly warmer in your trailer than it is outside. If you have windows in your trailer open them, but leave the screen up so the horses heads are not out of the trailer. Be sure to stay calm throughout the process, as your horse will pick up on any stress.
  4. Loading your horse into the trailer. Lead him calmly up the ramp or up the step and into his individual chute. If he is nervous, have a calm horse go before him or even go in first yourself. The idea is to show him that the trailer is a safe, non-threatening environment. Always make sure the heavier horse or a horse traveling alone is on the drivers side of the trailer. The second or empty space should be on the passengers side. If you have any further issues, consult your trainer or an experienced horse person.
  5. Secure your horse inside the trailer. Close all doors and latch or lock them. Double-check that there is no door or window that could swing our into a neighbouring lane. Never tie a horse while in a trailer, so if the trailer flips, the animal does not snap its neck. Horses should never be able to touch noses while unsupervised in a trailer, this could cause a fight, unless you are positive the horses get along.
  6. Hit the road. Remember to try to avoid highways and to always drive at or slightly below the speed limit. Keep in mind that any decision you make could put your horse's and your lives at risk. It may help to have another driven in another car behind the trailer so the driver with out the trailer can change lanes behind you leaving you plenty of space to move around.

Using a Horse Truck

  1. Perform a safety check on the truck. You should ensure that the truck is registered and road legal. A specialised truck mechanic is able to inspect your vehicle, or you can get the vehicle inspected by the Roads and Traffic Authority. You can also do a basic safety check on the truck, you should check the following:-Break lights, Indicator lights, Tire pressure and tire tread, Gas or fuel, Water and any necessary fluid or oil
  2. Prepare the horse for the trip. Ensure that the horse is ready for the haul, many horses will baulk the first time they travel on a truck, as many are used to the common two and 3 horse floats. Keep everything familiar, by doing the same preparation procedures to what you would do with a horse float. In horse floats, they can become quite warm inside, and horses only require a light travel sheet, however, with trucks, many of them are not fully enclosed and can be quite drafty. This means that a light sheet would probably suffice, but be prepared by having a heavier rug available for when the weather cools down. Travel boots are essential, as the ramps or tailgate of a truck is much steeper and larger than a common horse flat, if a horse was to slip off the edge, worst-case scenario, then the horse would injure its legs. A breakaway halter is best suited for travelling; however, a good quality halter will suffice. You should however, make sure that the lead rope is good quality and longer than a normal lead. Because in Trucks the tie up access loops will be in a different position to a float, (more often they will be higher) a longer lead is needed to ensure the safety and comfort of the horse, however the horse should not be tied.
  3. Prepare the Truck for travel. If you have a steep ramp or tailgate, then it will be necessary to put some wood shavings on the ramp to make it more inviting and so the horse doesn’t slip. Most trucks will have open rails, or windows for ventilation, open these to make the truck brighter. This will make it more inviting for the horse. Horses are easily bribed by using a feed temptation. To temp stubborn or nervous horses, place a hay net or feed bucket on the floor of the truck. For horses that easily travel and float, simply have a hay net or feed bucket available for the trip. Because most trucks have mechanical ramp devices that can be quite loud and noisy, it is better to lower the ramp prior to the horse coming to the truck, this way, there is a lesser chance of the horse becoming agitated or nervous from the sound. Make sure that you have all necessary equipment for the trip, including:- Registration papers and horse documentation, a first aid kit for both humans and horses, a mobile or cell phone, a torch, spare tyre, mechanical equipment, such as jack, wrench etc. As well as water and food for both parties. Ensure all or most equipment is stored within easy access, such as in the glove box or in the cab.
  4. Load the horse on to the trailer, though take into consideration, that many trucks don’t have spacers of dividers, and multiple horses should be happy to share the close proximity of each other. If you have a horse that is green to travelling, load an experienced and gentle horse first, the greener horse will get confidence from the first horse, and will be less likely to baulk or become agitated. If you have only green travellers, ensure that the greenest horse goes on first, as if a horse gets agitated, it may spark a chain reaction amongst the other horses. If travelling with multiple horses, load them as normal, but try putting the easier to handle horses towards the rear, if there should be a problem during the trip, you can take them off and you will have less of a problem if you have to stop on the side of a road, because the horses will be easy to handle. Again never tie your horse when in the trailer.
  5. Hit the road. Many people simply drive away and don’t worry about the load until they get to their destination. If you are travelling for a short time, then this will probably be the case, but if you plan to travel for longer than 2 hours, then it is best to plan for stops along the way. The horses will probably be ok, but if you become tired you may be putting you and your horses in danger. Plan your stops, and if you are going to a show, allow extra time for stops or breaks. If your are travelling extreme distances, make sure that you let your horses off the truck and walk them around, like humans, they need blood flow to the legs and body. If you were to sit for hours on end, you legs may become numb and fall asleep, horses are the same, and require movement for blood flow. You may be fortunate enough to be able to have a stop over at a friend’s house, or at a horse motel, but if not, plan your trip and allow time for stops.

Using a Gooseneck

  1. Perform a safety check on the Gooseneck. You should ensure that the rig is registered and road legal. A specialised mechanic is able to inspect your rig, or you can get the vehicle inspected by the Roads and Traffic Authority. You can also do a basic safety check on the Gooseneck, you should check the following:- Break lights, Indicator lights, Tire pressure and tire tread, Gas or fuel, Water and any necessary fluid or oil, Rig Attachments
  2. Prepare the horse for the trip. Ensure that the horse is ready for the haul, a Gooseneck is quite comfortable for a horse to travel in style in, but some horses may get a little suspicious of the size. Keep everything familiar, by doing the same preparation procedures to what you would do with a horse float. As with horse floats, the horse can become quite warm inside, and horses only require a light travel sheet, however, Goosenecks can also be drafty if they have open vents rather than closed windows. A light sheet would probably suffice, but be prepared by having a heavier rug available for when the weather cools down. Travel boots are essential; the ramp of a Gooseneck is quite flat with not a steep slope, mainly due to the back also having an additional swing-open door. Take all safety precautions; if a horse was to slip off the edge, worst-case scenario, then the horse would injure its legs. A breakaway halter is best suited for travelling; however, a good quality halter will suffice. Again leave the horse's head free.
  3. Prepare the Rig for travel. If you have a steep ramp or tailgate or a horse is used to being stabled, then it will be necessary to put some wood shavings on the ramp to make it more inviting and so the horse doesn’t slip. Most Goosenecks will be enclosed, and have windows for ventilation, open these to make the inside brighter. This will make it more inviting for the horse. Horses are easily bribed by using a feed temptation. To temp stubborn or nervous horses, place a hay net or feed bucket on the floor of the Gooseneck. For horses that easily travel and float, simply have a hay net or feed bucket available for the trip. Because a Goosenecks ramp is not very steep, a horse will usually walk on without difficulty, but make sure that the ramp and swing door are opened prior to bringing the horse to the rig. Make sure that you have all necessary equipment for the trip, including:- Registration papers and horse documentation, a first aid kit for both humans and horses, a mobile or cell phone, a torch, spare tyre, mechanical equipment, such as jack, wrench etc. As well as water and food for both parties. Ensure all or most equipment is stored within easy access, such as in the glove box or in the cab.
  4. Load the horse into the horse compartment as you would for a float, though take into consideration, that many Goosenecks may not have spacers of dividers, and multiple horses should be happy to share the close proximity of each other. If you have a horse that is green to travelling, load an experienced and gentle horse first, the greener horse will get confidence from the first horse, and will be less likely to baulk or become agitated. If you have only green travellers, ensure that the greenest horse goes on first, as if a horse gets agitated, it may spark a chain reaction amongst the other horses. If travelling with multiple horses, load them as normal, but try putting the easier to handle horses towards the rear, if there should be a problem during the trip, you can take them off and you will have less of a problem if you have to stop on the side of a road, because the horses will be easy to handle. Make sure your horses head is not restricted, so do not tie your horse.
  5. Hit the road. Many people simply drive away and don’t worry about the load until they get to their destination. If you are travelling for a short time, then this will probably be the case, but if you plan to travel for longer than 2 hours, then it is best to plan for stops along the way. The horses will probably be ok, but if you become tired you may be putting you and your horses in danger. Plan your stops, and if you are going to a show, allow extra time for stops or breaks. If your are travelling extreme distances, make sure that you let your horses off the Gooseneck and walk them around, like humans, they need blood flow to the legs and body. If you were to sit for hours on end, you legs may become numb and fall asleep, horses are the same, and require movement for blood flow. You may be fortunate enough to be able to have a stop over at a friend’s house, or at a horse motel, but if not, plan your trip and allow time for stops. Many Goosenecks may be fitted with easy yards. If a suitable position is available, then this may the best option for multiple day trips, or when travelling across state or Country.

Tips

  • Have an emergency supply kit in case of accidents/emergencies while traveling.
  • Make sure that all safety equipment and gear is loaded the day before, this way, you won’t be rushing in the early hours of the morning to find your show gloves, or a specially sized halter.
  • Always have a back up plan when travelling longer or multiple day trips. A second person is best to drive in a car in case of a flat tyre of unforeseen problems, this way you can drive to e.g. Vet, Mechanical Workshop, and Shopping Centre etc.
  • Leave in the early morning, and if able, leave just on light, this way, you are able to see the hitching and loading of horses, if done in the dark, something may not have been done right. If you must leave in the early morning or late night, load and hitch up in a well lit area, so as to prevent any mishaps.
  • Horse’s Shipping Attire: Your horse should wear a halter during the trip. Most people suggest leather halters (not nylon or rope). In case of an emergency the leather is easier to cut through. Depending on the climate you are traveling in you may or may not want to ship your horse with a blanket. Shipping boots or leg protectors can be very helpful when shipping your horse. The boots give extra support and provide protection from injury during travel (make sure the boots fit your horse correctly or they could cause more harm than good).
  • Health Requirements: You will need a health certificate from the vet stating that your horse has its current vaccinations, as well as a negative Coggins test in the last 6 months. Check the state guidelines before traveling to see if there are any additional vaccinations required . Note: This should be done in advance, due to the time it could take for the vet to get the paperwork together.
  • If possible, get a trailer that is around {{safesubst:#invoke:convert|convert}} taller than your horse’s normal standing height.
  • Be proficient in the travel mode before tackling longer trips.
  • Food: Your horse will need fresh hay for the trip. Keep in mind the traveling distance and the amount of food necessary for the trip. You should take breaks periodically to water your horse, always keeping the horse well hydrated. You may find it easier and more cost effective to hire a professional horse hauler.
  • Horses unfamiliar with trailers may be afraid of entering and could potentially get hurt if the handler isn’t careful. It’s a good idea to practice loading your horse into the trailer ahead of time to get the horse used to walking into a small, dark place.
  • Make sure the trailer is properly ventilated. After arriving at the destination give the horse a thorough physical. Check all joints, check for any scrapes or cuts, and make sure the animal isn’t running a fever.
  • When travelling one horse in a two-horse trailer load the horse on the driver's side of the towing vehicle.
  • Learn that there are several different types of trailers and ways that horses can be loaded onto a trailer. Check with your hauler for the exact type and layout of the trailer to see that it meets both you and your horse’s requirements.
  • You may want to use a protective head covering for a tall horse in case the horse rears up while in the trailer.
  • Always have available, spare halters and leads, as well as rugs etc. If you were to get stuck out on a highway or in the middle of the bush and one of the horses halters broke, then you would need a replacement quick. As with a rug (blanket), if it got suddenly cold, or a frost or a storm cam in, then you will want to rug your horse.

Warnings

  • It’s best not to feed your horse grain before traveling because it is more difficult to digest.
  • Shipping boots, wraps, and protectors can slip or come off with hours of wear. It’s important to check your horse’s leg coverings periodically on trips over 4 hours. If the leg protector isn’t worn properly it can hurt the horse’s legs.
  • Horses tend to lose 2-5 pounds of body weight for every hour they travel in cool weather. This can increase in hot weather, so make sure the horse is well hydrated at all times.
  • Try not to travel during the hottest part of the day. If it’s unavoidable, take more water breaks, allowing the horse to come out of the trailer for air.
  • Horses are unpredictable, and Equestrian disciplines are one of the most dangerous sports. Be prepared for anything and everything. It’s better to not need and have than to need and not have.
  • Only transport an extremely sick horse if it’s absolutely necessary. It’s best not to expose an ill animal to other horses.
  • You may be a proficient driver, but it’s the other road users that you need to watch, make sure that all precautions are made to prevent an accident. e.g. Lights on, Hazard Lights on when pulled over etc.
  • Horseboxes and trailers cannot carry unlimited weight. Check the manufactures handbook and estimate the weight of yourselves, equipment and horses.
  • Fatigue is a major issue when travelling for long hours, or at each end of the AM/PM scale. Make sure you are ready for the trip and not tired, if you are tired, have a good breakfast and either coffee (if you’re a coffee person) or Pure Juice. This way you will be wide awake and ready.
  • NEVER Tie your horse in the trailer. Should your horse freak out while on the trailer or the trailer should flip, your horse will most likely snap its neck trying to break free and death is eminent.

Things You'll Need

  • Health Certificate
  • Food (fresh hay)
  • Water
  • Trailer in good working condition (lights, hitch, etc.)
  • Halter, ropes, protective blankets, etc.

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Sources and Citations

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