Long-distance transport of horses for competition, breeding, or slaughter poses significant welfare risks including dehydration, respiratory disease, and musculoskeletal stress.
Dehydration during transport impairs kidney function and intestinal motility, increasing colic risk. Prolonged transport in vehicles with poor ventilation causes respiratory challenges and heat stress. Horses transported for slaughter often receive the worst conditions — the economic incentive for welfare investment is absent. Journey time limits and mandatory veterinary checks would reduce these harms.