For many of us, opportunities to get out and about with our four-legged-friends ramp up during the Spring/Summer, so whether it’s a one-day-event, a fun ride or summer gymkhana, take a look through our helpful list of travel tips to ease the journeys ahead.
Know where you’re going:
Sounds daft, but is there anything worse than getting lost when towing/driving a lorry? The feel of stress courses through our veins like hot glue, the temples bristle and the temper often flares. Google Maps is an essential - and we have it on in the PADDOX wagon regardless of whether we’re travelling a well-trodden path or not because all it takes is one unexpected road closure for the stress levels to rise . . .
Check your truck/lorry:
Without sounding preachy, the importance of checking tyres, oil levels, windscreen fluid etc really is important as is making sure there are ample fuel stops along the way. It’s easy to forget how rapidly most vehicles guzzle fuel when towing and the last thing you want is to end up in an unknown area wondering how long the hike to the nearest petrol station will take you.
Ensure lorries and trailers have their routine services and check that all lights etc are working each time you drive.
Pack provisions:
Make sure you have enough hay for both legs of your journey and plenty of water to rinse off as well as hydrate. This is even more important in the summer months (or Spring as I write this in 25c April). Obviously an apple or carroty reward is a bonus for a horse that’s worked hard.
Human wise - snacks and sustenance are a winner for making long journeys seem quicker and saves the constant nagging by smaller jockeys for expensive treats from the service station . . .
Rugs:
Pack for the worst case scenario. Ensure you have the wherewithal to keep your pony comfortable if you’re delayed for any reason, or in case the weather takes a sudden turn. The back of our truck resembles a second hand rug sale on most of our outings as we’re fully prepared to protect our ponies from it all - from rain scald to heatstroke.
Boots:
In the event of a sudden stop or accident, boots protect our horse’s beautiful legs as we travel so are worth an investment. However, much like us every pony is different and some prefer the old fashioned solution of bandages. Don’t forget to have these ready to go on the day of your outing to save last minute searches.
Don’t forget about you . . .
Having turned up at a competition WITHOUT my daughter’s jodhpurs before, we have a strict checking process before we leave the yard for a show and this has been highly valuable for both of us.
I also know people who have turned up without bridles, saddle cloths, girths and even saddles so anything’s possible and a handy list helps avoid these thankfully rare but mega frustrating occasions.
Extras:
Having seen a horse spook and jump over the internal barrier of a 3.5T lorry, we always have spare lead ropes and headcollars in the truck, just in case. On top of this, we also ride with high-vis vests and have our hats within easy reach in case of an accident where we need to leap into action.
Our truck is filled with pony paraphernalia, and whilst some of it definitely ISN’T useful, the spare hairnets, gloves, number bibs, riding batons and horse treats do come in handy.
Your sense of adventure:
Sometimes getting out and about can feel overwhelming and we hope our list helps because there’s nothing more exciting than taking your favourite four-legged-friends to a competition, a rally, a fun ride or a new activity.
To make your adventures even easier, join the PADDOX community and let us bring events straight to your screen. With over 15,000 different events currently listed, there’s something for everyone, however adventurous you’re feeling.
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