29/05/2026
πππ πππ ππ πππ πππ?
This morning we decided to conduct a little experiment... we did this last summer and the summer before, but it is always a good reminder - especially at this time of year.
At 10am there was an outside temperature of 21Β°C, there was a good breeze and the horsebox was parked in a shaded area. As the horsebox needed cleaning after last night's use, we decided, out of interest, to check the internal temperature to see what the variance was. Whilst the vent had been open, the windows had been closed. Can you guess what the internal temperature was? Answer in the comments.
Now, the ideal temperature for a horsebox is between 10Β°C to 24Β°C. Because enclosed vehicles, such as horseboxes, heat up rapidly due to the body heat of the horses, maintaining a comfortable environment, and monitoring those conditions closely is critical for your horse's respiratory health and aids in preventing heat stress. This is why it is crucial that you avoid travelling in temperatures exceeding 30Β°C unless absolutely necessary. In fact, it is illegal for commercial transporters in the UK to transport horses in temperatures above 30Β°C unless the vehicle has certified fans or air conditioning which has a digital temperature monitor. Generally, despite having fans in the horseboxes, we make a call on whether it is wise to travel once the temperature reaches 24Β°C-25Β°C. If the travel is absolutely necessary, then we will move the time to early morning or late night when the temperatures are mostly considerably cooler.
Before travelling your horse in the heat - ask yourself - is it absolutely necessary? Is it in my horse's best interest? If the answer is no then please reconsider.
