| Owning a horse can be a very rewarding hobby. | | | | Make a list of all the things you may need to take with |
| Whether you are a person who just likes to go for a | | | | you, such as extra feed, saddle, bridle, competition |
| peaceful trail ride or you are aiming for Olympic gold, | | | | clothes, riding boots, grooming box, tack box, bucket, |
| there comes a time when we all will travel | | | | towel, extra blankets, human food, money and maybe |
| somewhere with our horse. | | | | even a map. Also make sure the vehicle has plenty of |
| Whether this experience is just to go to a different trail | | | | gas! |
| riding area, heading to your first competition or moving | | | | If you are traveling to a competition it is best to pack |
| paddocks, the following handy tips can help make the | | | | as much as possible the day before. Don't forget any |
| experience less stressful for all concerned. | | | | registration/membership papers or nomination forms. |
| First you will need suitable transport for your horse. If | | | | Check out where you're going to. You may even do a |
| you are intending on moving your horse on a regular | | | | 'dry run' (if it isn't to far away) to check out the best |
| bases then it maybe necessary to purchase (if the | | | | route to take. Work out how long it will take to get |
| budget allows) your own horse trailer (float). | | | | there and allow a bit extra so that you're not running |
| Most towns will have somewhere to hire a trailer from, | | | | late. |
| otherwise you maybe lucky enough to have some | | | | Have prepared any protective equipment for your |
| great friends who can help you out. | | | | horse that you deem necessary for the trip. Are you |
| No matter the transport you decide on, it is your | | | | using floating boots? Try them on your horse so that |
| responsibility to check that it is roadworthy and suitable | | | | they get a feel for them and you see how they fit. |
| for your horse. | | | | When the time comes to move your horse, stay |
| Is it big/small enough for your horse to fit comfortably? | | | | relaxed as this will help your horse to stay relaxed. If |
| Is it in good repair? | | | | possible have someone who is experienced with |
| Are all the correct lights working? | | | | moving horses with you. |
| Does the trailer have the correct brake set up? | | | | Once you arrive at your destination, park in a place |
| Is the floor strong and not rotten? | | | | that is suitable and safe to unload your horse. Unload |
| Is the trailer registered? | | | | your horse and take them for a walk around to have |
| Are the tyre's in good order? | | | | a look at their new surrounds. Perhaps offer them a |
| Do you have a suitable vehicle to tow the trailer? | | | | drink. |
| Are you used to towing a trailer? | | | | If you follow these simple steps, then transporting your |
| If possible it is always a good idea (especially if you | | | | horse will be a simple and enjoyable process. |
| haven't transported your horse for a while), to have a | | | | Remember to plan ahead and relax! |
| practice loading session the day before. | | | | |