• Packing the horse box must be done in an organised fashion.
• Have a check list so that you don’t forget anything.
• Keep everything in its designated space so you can find it when you need it.

Laura Bechtolsheimer’s packing system for travelling to a competition

• Packing the horse box must be done in an organised fashion.
• Have a check list so that you don’t forget anything.
• Keep everything in its designated space so you can find it when you need it.
• Take a notepad or white board to write the plan for the day, e.g. working back from your competition time, what needs to happen when (tack up and warming up time, which arena you are competing in). Then everyone knows what’s happening.
• Make sure you have a first aid kit so that you are ready for any minor injuries (for horse and rider).
• Take spares of all the essentials.
• Have a bridle and a chain or rope somewhere within easy reach for emergencies.
• Check that your spurs/whips/equipment are the right length and specification for the rules and regulations of your discipline.
• Have a bag/box for water, towels, gloves, reins, sponges that your helper can bring to the warm up so you don’t need to rush back to the lorry for anything.
• Prepare the lorry with a haynet and some shavings before you load the horse.
• Use a leather headcollar and tie your horse to string or a safety catch on the tie ring so that it breaks in an emergency.
• A wicking travel rug will keep the horse warm but will stop him over-heating.
• Travel boots provide overall protection from knocks and bangs for your horse’s legs and are easier than bandages.
• A tail bandage and tail guard prevents the tail being rubbed if the horse balances on his bottom.
• When loading, have a straight, clear approach and be positive as you walk up the ramp.
• Then turn the horse gently to get him in position and move his quarters across before you tie him up and close the partition.

This video and these key points reflect the views and preferred method of the person demonstrating the technique. Horse Hero recommends you ask an expert for advice if you need guidance or are unsure how to do this yourself and take every precaution for the safety of you and your horse. (www.horsehero.com)