THE Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine are reminding box drivers and horse dealers to ensure they are not breaking the law by transporting horses in unapproved vehicles.

“A lot of box drivers are unknowingly breaking the rules, which have been in place for over 10 years. This is an important animal welfare issue and it is the drivers who will be punished by law and not the horse owners. We know that the sales season is very busy and everyone is under pressure but we have to obey the Animal Transport Regulations. Dealers and owners should consider checking that the box drivers they use are authorised and that the vehicle is approved.