Wherever the road takes you and your horse, it is up to you to make the journey as breezy and stress-free as possible. Travel stress can take a toll on your horse’s health and may affect their performance if they participate in equine sports.
Proper preparation, supportive nutrition, and attention to your horse’s comfort can make a major difference during travel. Products that support digestive health, hydration, and overall wellness can help horses handle the stress of transportation.
Preparing For Shipping Or Trailering Your Horse
It is a good idea to prepare your horse for traveling by rehearsing loading and going for short trips throughout the year. You may also want to have them get acclimated to wearing leg wraps or bandages to protect and support their legs during longer trips.
If you plan on trailering your horse for a long trip, have your trailer inspected for signs of damage. You can take the trailer to a trailer dealer or body shop to have it looked over by a professional. You should also know the basic ins and outs of your trailer so you can give it a quick inspection of your own before each trip.
Make sure to:
- Test the brakes and all moving parts
- Check for rust, rot, or structural damage
- Confirm that doors and ramps open and close properly
Whether you are shipping your horse with a professional shipping company or hauling them yourself, schedule a check-up with your equine veterinarian in advance. Your horse may need health documents such as vaccine records, proof of a negative Coggins test, and a health certificate. You can also review available horse vaccines and preventive care products at 1800petmeds.com.
Supporting Your Horse During The Trip
When loading your horse, tie with breathing room in mind. If possible, leave your horse untied, or tied with a long slack. Your horse should be able to drop their head to cough and clear their airways.
Horses are prone to digestive issues related to travel stress. You can support your horse’s digestion by:
- Giving them a probiotic supplement
- Avoiding grains during the trip
- Soaking their hay in water before feeding
Digestive support products such as probiotics can help maintain gut balance during travel.
Hydration And Rest Breaks
Stop every three to four hours to give your horse water. There is no need to unload. Simply stop for 30 to 60 minutes to give your horse a break.
You can use these breaks to:
- Check your horse’s vital signs
- Conduct a quick skin tent test for dehydration
- Remove manure if possible
Keep in mind that many horses are picky about their water. They may not like the taste of water sourced at your destination. To ensure your horse stays hydrated, you can bring along water from home or supplement their water with something familiar, such as apple juice or molasses.
For trips that span multiple days, make sure to travel for no more than 18 hours at a time. Stop in a safe and secure area where both you and your horse can get some rest.
