Jack's Town & Country

Many horse owners and horses spend a great deal of time on the road. Several studies have investigated weight loss during transit and report horses losing up to 10% of their body weight during travel. Most of the weight loss is attributed to fluid loss or dehydration and horses typically recover this weight loss within 12 hours of transport with adequate access to water and hay.

However, the stress of prolonged travel can sometimes impact the horse’s health and result in loss of performance capability. When being hauled long distances, horses should have continuous access to hay and be offered water at least every 6 – 8 hours. Since many horses reduce water consumption during travel or don’t drink at all, they should be checked for hydration periodically, especially if they are not eating or drinking normally. If there is any indication of dehydration, a veterinarian should be called as intravenous fluids may be required. Electrolytes should not be administered to a dehydrated horse without additional fluids being included. If a horse is finicky about different tastes and smells, it may be helpful to add flavor to the water at home so he or she will get used to the taste. Then adding the flavor to the water when traveling will mask any changes in taste or smell, and hopefully help increase the chance the horse will drink.

Reduced water intake is one of the biggest concerns with hauling horses on long trips because lower water intake can increase the risk for impaction colic, dehydration, heat stress and reduced performance.

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