What must be ensured about horses before travel?

Horses must be fit and healthy before travel to ensure their well-being and minimize the risk of injury or stress during transportation. A well-conditioned horse is better equipped to handle the physical demands of travel, including potential changes in weather, confinement, and stress from unfamiliar environments. Assessing the horse's health involves checking for any signs of illness or injury, ensuring they have up-to-date vaccinations, and confirming that they are free from contagious diseases.

This is critical not only for the horse's welfare but also for the health of other horses they may come into contact with during travel. Additionally, travel can be particularly taxing for animals that are not in peak physical condition, which increases the likelihood of complications during transport. Ensuring that horses are fit and healthy directly relates to best practices in animal care and management, aligning with regulations and standards in place to promote humane treatment and safety in the equine industry.