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