Tips to Prepare Your Horse for Long Distance Travel

by Racing Factors analyst

Transporting a horse, whether dragging it around town or on a long-distance trip with a commercial carrier, requires careful planning and consideration to ensure the safety, comfort, and well-being of your equine companion. From selecting the right transportation company to preparing your horse for travel, there are numerous factors to consider. In this article, we will explore some crucial points to keep in mind when shipping your horse, whether it's a local excursion or a cross-country adventure.

Make sure your horse is healthy:

Before a long trip, have a veterinarian evaluate your horse's health to ensure it is prepared for the trip and to provide all documentation necessary to cross state lines. According to the Kentucky Horse Council, you will need proof that your horse has received the proper testing and vaccinations and meets the health requirements of the state you are traveling to. At the very least, each state necessitates a recent negative Coggins test and a veterinary inspection certificate or health certificate obtained within 30 days prior to the travel date.

Box Stalls Are the Safest Option:

If you only have a simple stall in which you transport your horse, you should consider switching to a box stall to limit the stress on your horses when traveling. A single standing position is barely wider than the width of the horse and, in short, is very similar to a bumpy ride in the middle seat when traveling in economy class. It's not fun. A stable allows your horse to travel safely without being tied. In a box, your horse will be able to move his head freely and even lie down if he has been standing for too long.

Weigh your horse:

It is normal for horses to experience some weight loss during travel, especially over long distances. Research has shown that horses can lose up to 5% of their body weight when traveling more than 12 hours, even in cold conditions. Most healthy horses will regain that weight within three to seven days after shipping. Weighing your horse before travel and upon arrival can help you determine how many days he will need to recover after a long ride.

Plan Ahead:

Calculate your transportation needs in advance. Be realistic about your driving skills if you are traveling a long distance and plan layovers accordingly. This allows you to secure dates and ensures that the transport company has enough time to prepare your horse's trip.

Communication is key"

Stay in contact with the commercial carrier during your horses' trips so that someone can be available to assist with loading for the trip and unloading at the destination if you are not available to do so. If you are shipping your own animals, establish contact with the stable at your destination and a relationship with the local veterinarian. Discuss any drastic changes to the horses' diet that may occur once they have arrived.

Check Legal Requirements:

Get acquainted with any legal obligations or rules concerning the transportation of horses in your locality or when crossing state borders. Make sure your horse has all the necessary health certificates, permits and documentation to facilitate a smooth journey, without delays or complications. Most states require the carrier to have a current Negative Coggins test accompanying the horse within their state of residence. When crossing state borders, it is often necessary to have a current health certificate drawn up by your veterinarian, in addition to the negative Coggins test. Be sure to check your route for agricultural checkpoints. Fines for incomplete documentation can be high, find out before you travel!

Make regular rest stops:

Rest stops are an important part of any road trip. The Kentucky Horse Council recommends that parking brakes occur every four hours and last at least 20 minutes, preferably in a shaded location with the windows open to increase airflow in the trailer. It is not recommended to unload horses from the trailer, as many will be frightened by road noises in an unfamiliar environment.

During extended journeys, it's advisable to unload horses after 12 hours of travel and provide them with a minimum of eight hours in a stable to rehydrate and clear their respiratory tract.

Keep your horse hydrated:

To stay hydrated during their journey, horses should be offered water every three to six hours. The Kentucky Horse Council suggests bringing your horse's own water when traveling, as some horses may not drink unfamiliar water. If you can't bring enough, try getting your horse used to flavored water before the trip by adding Kool-Aid or Gatorade.

Be Aware of Shipping Fever:

Shipping fever is another reason why it is recommended to switch from a fixed position to a cashier position. Shipping fever is a term for any viral or bacterial respiratory infection that your horse may contract while traveling that causes a bad cough. Sometimes this cough can last up to four weeks after travel. The best way to avoid this is to make sure your horse can drop his head in the stall. A box stall is large enough that your horse can move his head without any problem. Another way to prevent shipping fever is to ship your horse with a second horse. Shipping fever is brought on by stress and allowing your horse to have a friend can make him feel more relaxed.

As you get more comfortable traveling with your horse, these tips and tricks will become like second nature to you. For more information, please visit Racing Factors we will be happy to help you. We provide you the best racecards and horse racing news and tips…

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