Traveling with your horse can be very challenging because you must take several precautions to protect them. Long distances, in general, are tiring for us humans, so imagine your large animal struggling in the trailer. Horses are magnificent creatures and as owners, you need to be cautious about their health.
First, you need to make a plan, figure out your route, schedule different stops, and so on. All these tips will help you travel safely and hassle-free. And most importantly, set your trailer so your horse can travel comfortably.
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This article will discuss seven tips to help you prepare your horse for long distances.
Health-check
One of the things you need to do is get a health check done for your horse, so it can travel well. Visiting a veterinarian before you travel is a great way to ensure your horse is in good health. And if there is an issue, you can get it treated before you take your animal on the road.
Keep in mind that some states require proof or paperwork from the doctor so that your horse meets all the health requirements. Knowing your horse’s limits will give you an understanding of how much stress he can take during the trip and accordingly make the right choices.
Hydrate Your Horse
Ensure your horse is well-hydrated during the trip, so they do not pass out unknowingly. It would be best if you started hydrating your horse at least a week before you leave so that the body adjusts to the hydration program.
When your horse is in a trailer, it can be hot, discomforting, unfamiliar, and loud noises which can set off alarms. Hydration can help you calm down and improve breathing. Remember that your horse may not drink much water during the trip, so it is important that you start preparing him before your journey.
Box Stalls
While standing stalls have long been used to transport your animal from one location to another, it can be quite stressful. Instead, consider a box stall that is wider and more comfortable for your horse to bear the journey.
The fact that it is wider allows your horse to be more free or even lay down when required. Traveling on roads is not always pleasant, so with the freedom to move their head or adjust themselves to a more better position. So box stalls are an excellent choice, and you should consider them for the safety of your horse.
Beware of Horse Allergies
Another important tip we can give you during your trip is to watch out for horse allergies. Horses are very sensitive to different environments, so you must make suitable arrangements in the trailer.
One of the most common allergies is dust, which can cause different problems, so ensure that you keep the trailer dust-free. Even the bedding you lay out in the stall should be clean and well-dusted so your horse does not have irritation.
Weigh Your Horse
One of the common experiences that happen is that your horse may lose some weight. Before you panic, it is absolutely normal. Regardless of the conditions when traveling for long hours, your horse may lose at least 5% of the weight. However, it is essential to note that a healthy horse can gain it back relatively quickly. If you plan your trip properly, you can probably arrive a bit early so that your horse has the time to regain his strength and be ready for your needs. To know how much weight the horse may have lost, weighing them beforehand will give you a clear idea of how long you need to recover.
Take Enough Rest Stops
Taking rest stops during your journey is vital for your horse as it will allow the animal to refresh. When you constantly move on different roads, your horse may get restless and find breathing challenging. The goal is to stop now and then so that you can open your trailer windows for some fresh air. Remember that it is not advised to unload your horse, but if necessary, you should consider it an option.
Final Thoughts
You and your horse can travel safely with these seven easy ways without much hassle. Remember that your horse’s health is a priority, and you need to meet all the requirements for their safety. If you love Australian horse racing, here are some quick facts that you should know.
