SAFETY and horse welfare are paramount when it comes to all aspects equine transport. Inside this 10-page transport feature we have advice for horse owners on everything to do with horse transport. We have advice from Gills Driving School on getting the correct licence for driving a horse truck or towing a box, tips and tricks for making your horse a happy traveller, safety while riding on the road, loading, international shipping and more.
Horse transport is undoubtedly a huge industry in Ireland. With Britain due to leave the European Union next Friday (January 31st) the issue of transporting horses and the implications of a hard border have been a hot topic within the industry.
Gavin Cooper of Cooper International Horse Transport and Eddie Brennan Shipping Ltd. spoke to The Irish Field during the week about this, where he told us there will be a transition period of up to two years while the procedures and formalities of travelling horses are ironed out.
“We have been travelling horses well before Ireland joined the EU and when there were more borders in place. We, along with the whole equestrian community, will be hoping for a smooth transition whatever the outcome, but we are certain it won’t stop business. All it means is more organisation and preparation before travelling with horses.” The Cooper family have been in the horse industry for generations as dealers and shippers.
“Organisation is key and it always has been, so it won’t be too much of a change for us. The Irish horse is one of the greatest export products of Ireland and Brexit will not stop Irish horses travelling all over the world.”
“The welfare of the horses is still the most important aspect and sufficient time for horses to rest while travelling will still be provided no matter what the eventual outcome of Brexit is. Travelling horses will be no different on February 1st as it is now. It will be business as usual for us” Cooper explained.
Links to all articles below:
International shipping feature
Stay safe when riding on the roads
Road safety: Know your hand signals