How to Move a Horse From One Place to Another

Transporting a horse from one place to another can cause stress levels to rise in both the horse and its owner. Reduce the anxiety factors for your horse by making the journey as swift and comfortable as possible. Check over equipment and replenish supplies for the journey to ensure your horse arrives safely to its next destination.

Things You'll Need

  • Trailer
  • First aid kit
  • Food supply
  • Water
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare the trailer for transport. The trailer will be the horse's home for the duration of the journey. Because the sudden change in environment can be stressful for a horse, you should work to make the space as comfortable and nonthreatening as possible. Also check the quality of the trailer to make sure it is up to safety standards. Before loading your horse, determine that the floor boards are of a good quality and not prone to breaking during transport. Wood that is soft and old could cause an injury to your horse as you move it.

    • 2

      Pack provisions for the journey. The amount of food and water needed depends on the length of your journey, but it is a good idea to have at least two week's quantity of hay and grain. Having more food than you need will give you time to look for a feed store upon your arrival at the next destination. Don't forget to take a sufficient water supply as well for your horse. Throughout the trip, check to make sure the horse is drinking and eating regularly. Sometimes the stress of the journey can lead a horse to stop eating and drinking, which can lead to dehydration and other health problems.

    • 3

      Provide medical supplies for your horse in case of an emergency. Medications and supplements should be held in the trailer car and given as normal. In addition, pack a first aid kit as a preventative measure. Include a stethoscope, as well as diluted iodine solution, hydrogen peroxide, topical antiseptic ointments and saline, in case any wounds should occur during transport. The kit should also contain gauze, tape, scissors, eye ointment, injectable sedative and pain killer, a rectal thermometer, electrolytes and cold packs.

    • 4

      Stop often along your journey to check on the horse. This is especially important when traveling long distances with a horse. Plan to stop every two to four hours. When you stop, check the horse for any signs of injury or stress, such as failure to eat and drink. Feed and water the horse and make sure the supplies are sufficient for the remainder of the journey. Do not attempt to travel with a horse for over eight hours at a time. Upon arrival to your destination, put the comfort of the horse first by immediately setting up a horse bed and giving the horse food and water.