mark. More realistically, there is a lack of training; or the horse has learnt to reliably find pressure relief away from the float; or the horse is scared and doesn’t fully
C OAC H I N G W I T H C H R I S T I N E
Floating with confidence
understand what is being asked of it; or a combination of these things.
Be well set up Make sure the float is secured to a vehicle. Check it is sound, paying close attention to the floor and ramp, which must be dry and in good order. Park on level ground with good footing - slippery surfaces are not suitable. Position the float in a way that allows in the most
If successfully loading your horse onto a float has so far eluded you, CHRISTINE ARMISHAW is here to help.
S
uccessful loading combines several factors. Your horse needs to be in a calm, learning state; you
need a good grasp of the concept of
daylight and open the front people doors. A horse’s eyes take longer to adjust to changes in light than ours, and this needs to be accounted for. Put wood shavings on the floor towards
both comfortable and understands the
the rear of the float. Absorbing moisture
exercise, they will go on the float. It’s
from urine and manure will help prevent
your job to ensure these parameters
the area becoming slippery during transit. Plan to drive slower than normal,
pressure-release; and you need to have
are in place. Yes, horses may have had
plenty of time – a ticking clock never
previous experiences which make them
does anyone any favours.
hard to float. However, when someone
And this important point needs to be
says ‘he knows how to get on, he’s just
to stand steady. In fact, a youngster or
made at the outset: if your horse is
being difficult’, they are missing the
a horse that’s seldom travelled will find
16 | E Q U E S T R I A N H U B I S S U E 7 • 2 0 2 2
it’s hard for your horse to balance and stabilise, and they need to build up the small but important muscles required
