Tips for Traveling with Your Horse

Traveling with your horse can be stressful for both you and your horse. To help ensure the process goes as smoothly as possible, there are a few key things that you should keep in mind.

Before You Leave

Injured Large Animal

Before you travel with your horse, you should have your horse seen by a veterinarian to ensure it is healthy enough for travel. You should also talk to your veterinarian to see if there are any recommended blood tests, vaccinations or paperwork that should be completed before going on your trip. You should also prepare a first aid kit complete with veterinarians that you can contact along the way in case any problems arise. If your horse is on any medications or supplements, those should be packed as well.

Preparing Your Horse

You should also take steps to prepare your horse before you leave. This includes getting your horse accustomed to loading and riding in the trailer. You should also practice putting on any protective gear and helping your horse get used to being in a confined space.

During the Trip

During your trip, you should stop to check on the horse and offer water ever four hours. Keep these stops to no more than 15 to 30 minutes, as even stops can be stressful for your horse. Most experts recommend traveling no more than 12 hours per day. If the trip will take longer than this, the horse should be unloaded and allowed to rest for 8 hours before returning to the trip.

When the time comes that your horse passes away, there is no need for you to attempt to transport the horse. Rather, contact The Last Ride to help you during this difficult time.