Farm Animal Welfare

Transport Welfare for Horses and Ponies

Horse transport presents welfare risks including stress, injury, dehydration and respiratory disease, requiring careful planning and management.

Key Facts

Horses face respiratory challenge during transport from dusty bedding and head elevation
Journey duration, stocking density and ventilation determine respiratory disease risk
Head elevation restriction during transport causes increased respiratory disease risk
Journey breaks every 8 hours are required under EU regulations for long-distance transport
Novel environments, unfamiliar companions and movement cause stress during transport

Welfare Considerations

Horse transport welfare is influenced by vehicle design, journey management and preparation. Head-height restriction, poor ventilation and long journeys increase disease and injury risk. Journey planning with adequate breaks, appropriate bedding and familiar companions reduces welfare impact.

What You Can Do

Plan horse journeys to minimise duration and include appropriate rest stops
Use vehicles with good ventilation and appropriate bedding materials
Train horses to load calmly using positive reinforcement before travel