First time travelling

[LittleIndian23]

I will be bringing my horse to the UK form Guernsey in the next few weeks for an appointment at Liphook.
I have never travelled off island before and would be glad of any tips or advice anyone might have.

Thanks
Kate & Indy

 

[Shay]

Good golly thats a trip! Ar you using a professional horse transporter? Which port are you coming in to?

 

[LittleIndian23]

Yeah first trip with a horse off island as our local transporter collected him from the UK for me!
Bringing him in my lorry, boyfriend is designated driver as he has experience driving in the UK. Looking to come into Portsmouth Harbour which by Google looks like I have a 45 min drive to Liphook?

 

[Shay]

Yes - actually that's not too bad a run. I suspect our roads are busier than yours!

Make sure you have a good map from the A3 to Liphook. You'll come off onto Longmore road I should think. Take it slow as you come into the village of liphook because its quite twisty there and if you make a mistake it isn't easy to turn. The hospital itself is what feels like miles down a private track - which also leads to a famous hotel and spa. Keep your nerve and keep going - you'll get there!

If you need lunch try the Links Tavern - you'll pass it on your way in. I lead Pony Club trips to the hospital and we often stop there for a meal. or you could go to Champney's for a spa!

Good luck - hope its not too serious.

 

[LittleIndian23]

Ours are busy and narrow, not the best combination!

Oh fab, thank you! Any idea where is a good place to stay? Nothing too pricey ha!

He has bone spurs on his right knee and injections haven't really done anything so now it's over to the experts to see if they can help him

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

Headcollar and poll guard (if needed) only. Don't be tempted to put boots or bandages on legs, or anything on tail.
Its a long ride over (have shipped both ways, more so over to the CI's).
Offer drink on ferry and again before you come off.
Take sheets/rug with you, in case you'll want when arriving at Liphook but please dont be tempted to put them on for travel.
At least you'll have (should have!) a reasonable crossing at this time of year.

Hope your consult goes ok x

edited to add, have friends that way, so could ask about human accom if you want? B & B best?

 

[LittleIndian23]

Oh brill thank you!
Yeah B&B suggestions very welcome!
He travel naked over here anyway and is a hot horse at the best of times, live out all year and spends the majority of winter in a lightweight, or this past winter his waterproof fly rug too!

Was thinking of putting GoPro in lorry so I can secretly keep an eye on him?!
Am hoping for smooth crossing, they won't take us if it's too rough x