On the move

Taking your pony out in the horsebox or trailer can be really exciting – after all, it usually means you’re off on an awesome adventure! But whether it’s for a clinic, comp, hack or appointment, some ponies find travelling nerve-wracking – especially if they haven’t had much experience – so here are my tips to give yours confidence and help keep him safe.

On guard

Travel boots are designed to protect your pony’s legs from knocks and scrapes while he’s on the move – they’re made from tough, thick material that provides lots of padding. When fitting a boot…

1. Begin by holding it either side of the leg and slightly higher up than it needs to be.
2. Slide it down so the bottom of the boot is just above your pony’s coronet band.
3. Secure the boot with the middle strap first – this will help keep it in the correct position.
4. Do up the other straps – make sure they’re tight enough to prevent the boot from slipping, but not too tight that will make it uncomfortable for your pony.

It’s as easy as that! If you’re worried your pony’s boots don’t fit him, ask your instructor or yard manager to check before the day of your journey. You don’t want to arrive and find they’ve slipped or rubbed him.

Wrap up

Did you know that ponies often lean back when travelling to help keep their balance? That’s why we use tail bandages and guards to protect their docks and tails from rubs!

Ask an adult for help applying the bandage as some ponies can hold their tails down, which makes it pretty tricky. If you’re having a go, stand to his side (not directly behind him) and, starting at the top of the tail, wrap the bandage round so it overlaps a little on each loop – then secure the Velcro or with a knot at the end. Next, put on a tail guard for maximum protection!

TOP TIP

It’s super-important you don’t do the tail bandage or guard up too tight – you might affect his circulation, which will be painful.

Check out more of Pony Nuts’ top tips for travelling in February PONY – on sale now!