Travelling - Which way to face?

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cowdonkey

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Hi all, I'm looking at buying my first lorry but there's so many different options that it's a bit overwhelming. Do people prefer horses to face backwards, front or sideways? My horse was delivered to me in a trailer but I've taken him out rear-facing in a box and he seemed okay. Also any other do/dont advice when buying is welcomed. Thanks!
 
I believe that most horses prefer rear facing, although not all do (I had one that didn't). Perhaps you can try different positions and see which one he prefers?
 
Research says they travel better backwards but I think each horse is different. You hear of so many going over the breast bar in rear facing wagons, yet some people swear by them so if you know your horse travels well a certain way then Id go with that. It also depends on what weight lorry you are buying as most 7.5t are herringbone and most 3.5t, well the newer ones are rear facing. I personally prefer 7.5t herringbone for bigger horses but would probably have a 3.5t if I had ponies.
 
Having travelled a few of mine loose in a big box (individually), I can see on the camera that most of them seem to prefer to travel at an angle. Some backwards and some forwards but all at roughly 45 degrees.

Mine either travel forwards in a trailer or herringbone in a box, if herringbone then they are usually angled so they face slightly backwards. They don't seem to mind either way
 
You've really go to go with what the horse needs; balanced with what you can afford. Research does suggest that most horses prefer traveling on an angle if they have no other support - but no all do. Many who might objectively prefer an angle do perfectly well front or rear facing, especially if supported by partitions etc.

Basically if you have a good traveler they will do OK in more or less any configuration which fits them. If you have a tricky traveler they will have their own preference which will have nothing to do with what "most" horses prefer.

If your lad travels OK - choose the lorry configuration which suits you. They won't know there was another option!
 
none of mine will travel backwards they load and travel best in a 7.5 ton herringbone formation with the trailer a good second best facing forwards
 
Agree with shays comments there. Read research that suggested they prefer to be angled mainly but horses seem to be ok with either option. Rear seems most common in smaller boxes. If you have a kicker, forward might be nicer for the driver as then they aren't kicking right behind your head, in. 3.5t type lorry, which I had happen once and it was horrible.
 
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