Boxing Horses Over Long Distances

Plan your trip well in advance and be prepared for any pitfalls. The Horsebox should be safe and reliable. A full service should be done on the vehicle before your trip. The box should be big enough to take the weight and size of the horse, check the latest regulations; keep your horse safe and stay on the right side of the law. Have a tick list, check that:

Doors open fully, close and can be secured;

Windows fully open and close;

Brakes are in good working order;

Lights are in working order;

Vents fully open and close;

The floor needs to be fit for purpose and up to weight;

Tyres checked for pressure and fit for purpose, including the spare;

The jack, in case of a puncture is in the horsebox;

Making the horse feel safe, secure and calm, is important to both the horse and yourself, if the journey is to be a successful one. Make sure your horse loads and unloads in a clam manner well in advance of going on a long journey. Check with your vet that the horse is fit and well before making your journey.

You will need to think about hydration during transport, stocking a first aid kit, and feed. Make sure you have plenty of hay - probably enough to feed him throughout his trip and a few days into his stay. Depending on the time of year, and the turnout, it is always a good idea to take his rug, a spare halter, spare lead rope, spare buckets, bedding and last but not least a fire extinguisher.

Bandaging horse's legs as a means of protection on a short journey can be a benefit; on a longer journey it may cause sores

Standing for long periods take a massive amount of effort and energy, it is a constant balancing act for the horse. The amount of traffic on our roads means having to manoeuvre into and out of traffic, increasing speed, breaking and lane changes. Even with an excellent driver the horse will get tired.

A rough guide is to have a parking break every three to four hours, a minimum of twenty minutes will allow the horse to relax and "unlock" his legs. Check your horse carefully for any sign of stress, heat/cold and dehydration. Make any necessary adjustments. Offer the horse water at every stop and refill his hay net. Have a safe journey.