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Alternative Transport Solutions for your Horse

2016/5/4 10:26:14

Living without a horsebox or trailer can be frustrating, especially if you are used to having one but for some reason circumstances dictate that you can no longer afford it. For those who have never owned one, it can seem like an unachievable dream. Getting your horse out and about doesn't have to be difficult without transport, but it can require innovation, and have to accept that you may have to make sacrifices.

For excursions such as taking your horse to the vets, which really are unavoidable, someone on your yard may offer to take you. That is, assuming you know someone with a box at the yard. If no one offers, don't feel embarrassed about asking, as your horse's health is paramount and he may suffer without treatment. Of course, you can offer to pay for the diesel it takes to run there and back, and even get the person a little gift as a thank you. This may give them the incentive to want to help out again. You could also use this strategy to get out competing, but try to fit in with what their competition schedule involves. You may want to be galloping over cross country fences, but go along with their love of dressage clinics and use it to contribute towards your eventing progress. If you feel that you are not getting enough of the training for the disciplines you want, you could ask on the odd occasion if they would mind taking you to something different. They may even agree to bring their horse and give it a go themselves. Getting them involved in your discipline could mean they take it more seriously, and do it more often.

Consider riding to shows, clinics and pleasure rides in the local area, if available. There may not be enough variety nearby to fulfil your competition and training needs but they may contribute. You need to ensure that your horse is fit enough to do this, as after the ride over he will need to perform. Don't forget he also needs to get home under his own steam too, so try not to wear him out!

Hiring a horsebox can be expensive, but if you have qualified for something you particularly wish to attend, it can be worth it. Or if it's simply a ride you have always wanted to do, why not see if someone else wants to come along to split the cost? Also check out any company you hire from, for legitimacy and appropriate insurance details. Some companies provide drivers, whilst others are self drive, so be aware of this. If self-drive, you will need appropriate insurance and driving qualifications.

You could consider buying a share in a horsebox with someone else. If they have three partitions and only one horse, as well as a similar taste in outings as you, this may be a financially more viable option for them too. Ideally when doing this you need to be familiar with the person you are sharing with, and have a solid contract. Even if you are friends, do not skimp on a contract stating who can use the box when, who pays for repairs and damages, and what happens if one of you pulls out. It is very easy for people to fall out over this kind of arrangement so you need to be very clear from the outset.

Whatever combination of the above you choose, hopefully it should provide you with the opportunities to get out to the most important competitions or events of the year for you. As previously mentioned, you might not make it to everything, but try to incorporate any qualifiers and championships you may want to attend onto your "beg and borrow" list, as these will probably be the highlights of your calendar. Anything else will be a bonus. Don't let having no transport be a limitation to your competing career, but do be realistic about the consequences, and make the most of the events you can get to!

Stal Amani is a top equestrian centre based in Belgium within 2 hours drive of most of the top jumping and dressage competitions in Europe. We regularly host national and international competitions. For more information please visit www.stalamani.com