Managing Travel Stress in Horses

Fortunately, there are effective strategies to mitigate both the physical and psychological effects of travel stress on horses. Implementing the right precautions and management techniques can help make travel a smoother experience for both horse and rider.

Proper Preparation Before Travel

Acclimate the Horse to the Trailer
Horses should be accustomed to the transport vehicle before embarking on long journeys. This means allowing them to get used to the trailer, both in terms of loading and standing inside it for short periods of time. You can gradually increase the length of time the horse spends inside the trailer to help reduce anxiety. If you are not familiar with travelling horses, there are professionals who can assist with this process. From training the horse to load onto the trailer, and then becoming familiar with standing on the trailer and travelling. 

Pre-Travel Exercise
Allow the horse to move around and stretch before the trip. A light workout or a walk can help alleviate muscle stiffness and prepare the horse for the confined space. Avoid over-exercising the horse before travel, as it could lead to fatigue.

Ensure Proper Hydration and Nutrition
Make sure the horse is well hydrated and fed at least one hour before travel. Horses may not drink enough water during transport, so offering them a drink before leaving is essential. Additionally, feed them a familiar, balanced diet to prevent gastrointestinal upset during travel. A biscuit of lucerne prior to travel is recommended to help suppress stomach acid and reduce the risk of gastric discomfort during transport. Lucerne hay is better for horses before travel because it contains higher levels of protein, energy, and calcium compared to normal hay, which helps sustain their energy and maintain muscle mass during stressful journeys. Its increased fiber content supports digestive health and reduces the risk of colic, while its lower dust levels minimize respiratory irritation in confined spaces. Additionally, the moisture retention in Lucerne hay aids in hydration, which is crucial during long trips.

In-Transit Care

Comfortable Travel Conditions
Ensure the trailer or transport vehicle is well-ventilated, clean, and spacious. Horses should have enough room to stand comfortably without being cramped, and the floor should provide a secure footing to prevent slipping. Bedding should be used to absorb waste and provide comfort.

Monitoring During the Journey
If possible, monitor the horse during the journey. There are a range of travel cameras available in today’s market. For long-distance travel, schedule breaks at safe locations to check on the horse’s condition and take them for a walk. Offering water at regular intervals can help prevent dehydration, especially on hot days.

Travel with a Companion
If your horse is particularly nervous, traveling with a familiar companion can reduce anxiety. Having a buddy horse can provide reassurance and reduce the sense of isolation. However, this is not always feasible, and some horses may prefer to travel alone, so consider your horse’s individual temperament and needs.

Post-Travel Recovery

Once you’ve arrived, offer the horse water and, if appropriate, a light snack of their regular hay to help with rehydration and digestion. Allow them to rest and stretch their legs before any strenuous activity. After a long journey, horses may benefit from a short walk to help alleviate stiffness and soreness.

Keep an eye on your horse for any signs of stress, such as loss of appetite, excessive sweating, or restlessness. These can indicate that the horse is still experiencing discomfort from the journey. Providing a calm, familiar environment and allowing time for rest can help ease recovery.

If your horse exhibits any signs of illness, colic, coughing or abnormal behavior after travel, consult a veterinarian immediately. A vet can assess whether any physical or psychological issues have arisen due to the travel stress.

The effects of travel stress on horses can be significant, but with the right management strategies, both physical and psychological stresses can be minimized. By preparing your horse properly for travel, ensuring comfortable conditions during transit, and providing adequate post-travel care, you can help ensure that your horse remains healthy, happy, and well adjusted after their journey.

Remember, travel stress can affect each horse differently, so it’s crucial to tailor your approach to the individual needs of your horse. With patience, careful planning, and attention to detail, you can help your horse cope with the demands of travel while maintaining their overall well-being.

References:

1. McGreevy, P. D., & McLean, A. N. (2010). Horse Behavior: The Guide for Veterinarians and Equine Scientists. Elsevier Health Sciences.
2. Dyson, S. J. (2011). “Gastric Ulcers in Horses: A Review.” Equine Veterinary Journal, 43(4), 343-354.
3. Harris, P. A., & McGreevy, P. D. (2004). “A review of the influence of the transport environment on the welfare of horses.” Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 24(1), 7-13.
4. Lindinger, M. I., et al. (2014). “Effects of transport stress on the health and well-being of horses: a review.” Veterinary Journal, 202(3), 438-446.