Travelling with your Equine Friends

Transport of horses is common practice, involving individuals and groups of animals travelling over varying distances. When you travel with your horse, the most important thing is that you both arrive safely at your destination.

Ensuring your horse is fit for travelling is very important, as well as being in good health your horse should also be up-to-date with all necessary vaccinations and worming. It is also a good idea to make sure you have practiced loading your horse into a horsebox or lorry before you travel, so both you and your horse are relaxed, this will mean less chance of delays or hesitation on the day.

It is wise to be prepared in case your vehicle breaks down, be prepared so you don't end up on the side of the road with a stressed horse. You first want to make sure that your insurance policy covers having your horse trailer towed if you have a breakdown. In some cases your vehicle and horsebox are covered, however the recovery team may not be insured to tow livestock. The alternative option of having a horse transporter company take you to your destination safely is very expensive.

Make sure that your horsebox or trailer is fit to travel and is serviced regularly. You need to make sure that your spare tyres are in good condition and you have a proper jack and tools needed to change a flat tyre. You will also want to have your mobile phone, and make sure it is fully charged, warning triangle or flashing lights. Carry jump leads, extra clothing, rugs and reflective gear and make sure you have any membership details and emergency numbers to call for recovery service and vet.

The Highway Agency recommends you don't unload your horse if at all possible. Try to make sure the horse is as comfortable as possible and has access to hay and water. You will also want to make sure there is proper ventilation and take along extra rugs in the winter months. Just try to relax and stay with your horse until help arrives.

Has your vehicle ever broken down while transporting your horse? Please post your comments below if you would like to share your experiences with other members of the Horse Community. Our horse insurance customers would love to hear what you have to say.  You could even win £50!