Travelling mare and foal in a 3.5t lorry

[Custard Cream]

Needing to move mare and foal at the weekend. The trailer we normally borrow doesn't have a full width breech bar so unless we find another trailer (none close for hiring) the only alternative is a 3.5t (brand new Alexander's) lorry.

Never travelled mare in one of these, though she loads and travels well in both trailers and lorrys. Are they safe to travel a mare and foal in?

 

[Abacus]

I haven't tried but I would be careful if it's one with a low breast bar - an agile foal may easily decide to go over the top - I'd look for ones with weave grilles fitted, or a full height wall. You may be able to take out the partition so they travel together rather than separately. Assuming the foal is pretty young still, they may prefer this.

 

[Custard Cream]

Yes, my worry is the foal getting over the back. Def would want the partition out.

 

[Abacus]

Not sure where you are located but Equestrivan in Reading do 3.5 tonne hire and their 'stallion' box has a full height wall. I don't like the quality of the build overall but I would hire one.

 

[Custard Cream]

Bit far unfortunately - up in the North East, County Durham

 

[Mariposa]

We travelled one of our mares and foals in a 3.5 lorry - but it had weave grills fitted ( it was this lorry http://www.gloucestershire-horse-transport.co.uk/horseboxes.htm) with the partition removed. It was very safe and they travelled very, but I'd be a little wary of traveling a foal without a high/solid partition.

Hope you find a solution!

 

[PuzzlePiece]

I've successfully travelled mares and foals together in 3.5t boxes but only in those with separate groom/horse areas. Partition out and large straw bed for the foal to lie down if needed. I'm not sure I'd risk it with just a breast bar. Good luck

 

[Golden_Match_II]

I've been to major studs who travel all theirs in 3.5t boxes - they were little racing boxes with a separate grooms area though. Should be absolutely fine!

 

[chillipup]

Would stacking hay or straw bales tightly to provide a wall, be appropriate? as it could prove to be a cheap and cheerful method.
I don't know the inside layout of the box you're talking about but just thought it might be worth mentioning. Apologies if it sounds ridiculous.