With the recent hot spell of weather we’ve been enjoying I’m amazed at the number of horsebox trailers being driven about with the door above the front ramp open and carrying a horse as a passenger!

It’s not just quiet country roads that I’ve seen this happening, it’s on main trunk roads and also motorways around the country that I’ve seen horses being travelled with the door open.

There’s also the safety factor too, horses are unpredictable animals and will not understand the close misses they have with passing lorries and vehicles. I’ve also heard of horses becoming unsettled and trying to jump through the open gap.

It seems to me a bit extreme and even though I expect it’s being done with the best of intentions I suggest that owners should think of their route, is the trip necessary, and even when it’s warm and sunny, travel them without a rug than rugging up and leaving the door open. If it really is that warm then don’t travel during the day, instead pick a cooler time of day, like early morning or later at night.

I can’t think your horse will thank you even if they are not of a nervous disposition. For a start how often do you drive with your car window fully open on the motorway? Apart from being stuck in traffic jams I’m willing to bet that it’s not often. Normally the noise, dust and debris being thrown up makes you want to close it pretty soon after driving off, imagine the same amount of noise and dust being blown around at your horse – only they don’t have the choice or ability to close the door.