A problem occurs while your horse is being transported: what should you do?

Most journeys go without incident, but it is better to know how to react if a problem occurs: a road accident, a horse that panics, or a sign of distress during the trip.

In the event of a road accident

Human safety comes first: make the vehicle safe and call the emergency services (18 or 112 in France) before dealing with the horse. An intact stall protects the horse until help arrives. Opening it in a hurry can create extra danger if the horse panics on a road.

A horse that panics or struggles

Avoid shouting or rushing around nearby, as this often makes the panic worse. Stopping the vehicle in a safe place, with the engine off, sometimes calms the situation within a few minutes without any direct intervention.

A sign of physical distress

Heavy sweating, very fast breathing, a horse that lies down or refuses to get up: these signals justify calling a vet straight away. If needed, head for the equine clinic closest to your route rather than carrying on to the original destination.

What a professional transporter from the network does

A transporter listed on Cavalotrans remains responsible for the horse and the vehicle for the whole journey. If there is an incident, it is up to them to handle the situation on the spot and to alert the owner. This is one of the points checked before a transporter profile joins the network.

This article gives general guidance, not a medical protocol: if you have any doubt about the horse's condition, contact a vet without waiting.