Shipping and hauling is part of life for performance horses, whether it's a short trip to a local show grounds or a cross country trip to your summer base. But what many riders don't realize is that travel itself can quietly wear on a horse's tendons and ligaments, leaving horses at risk for injury if recovery isn't managed properly.
Here's how shipping impacts soft tissue health–and how to protect your horse on the road and beyond.
The strain of balancing
It might not seem like a lot, but the strain of balancing in a trailer for hours can actually put consistent, low-grade stress on soft tissues. Tendons and ligaments, particular in the lower limbs experience prolonged tension as your horse braces against the movement of the trailer.
Tip: Allow time for your horse to stretch and move before and after shipping–even if it's just a walk around the barn or the showgrounds.
Micro-adjustments add up
Each bump, turn, and stop require your horse to rebalance (even when tied). Over time, these small adjustments and movements fatigue tendons and supporting ligaments, especially in the hind end.
Tip: Shorter haul times, regular rest stops, and smooth driving can all reduce strain. Consider leg protection that doesn't constrict circulation on longer hauls.
Dehydration increases risk
Hydration directly affects tissue elasticity. Dehydrated muscles and tendons are more prone to strain, especially when a horse goes straight from the trailer to the warm-up ring. Travel stress can also trigger low grade inflammation, which weakens soft tissue over time.
Tip: Encourage drinking before and during travel, and consider electrolyte support for longer trips or warmer weather.
Recovery starts the moment you arrive
One of the biggest mistakes riders make is treating arrival like "go time." Horses need recovery after hauling, even if they didn't work that day. Moving, stretching, and letting the body reset is key to preventing injuries down the line.
Tip: Prioritize hand-walking, turnout, and light movement before training or competition. Monitor legs for heat, swelling, or stiffness post-travel.
Build resilience from the inside out
While good management on the road is key, long-term tendon and ligament health starts before the trailer moves. That's where Tendonall comes in.
Formulated by veterinarians and trusted by top performance barns, Tendonall helps strengthen soft tissues, support healing, and reduce risk of injury–even under the stress of regular travel.
Travel isn't just about getting from point A to point B–it's another form of stress your horse needs help navigating. With smart routines and consistent support, you can help your horse stay strong, sound, and competition-ready, wherever the road takes you.
Ship Smart: How Hauling Impacts Soft Tissue Health
Shipping and hauling is part of life for performance horses, whether it's a short trip to a local show grounds or a cross country trip to your summer base. But what many riders don't realize is that travel itself can quietly wear on a horse's tendons and ligaments, leaving horses at risk for injury if recovery isn't managed properly.
Here's how shipping impacts soft tissue health–and how to protect your horse on the road and beyond.
The strain of balancing
It might not seem like a lot, but the strain of balancing in a trailer for hours can actually put consistent, low-grade stress on soft tissues. Tendons and ligaments, particular in the lower limbs experience prolonged tension as your horse braces against the movement of the trailer.
Tip: Allow time for your horse to stretch and move before and after shipping–even if it's just a walk around the barn or the showgrounds.
Micro-adjustments add up
Each bump, turn, and stop require your horse to rebalance (even when tied). Over time, these small adjustments and movements fatigue tendons and supporting ligaments, especially in the hind end.
Tip: Shorter haul times, regular rest stops, and smooth driving can all reduce strain. Consider leg protection that doesn't constrict circulation on longer hauls.
Dehydration increases risk
Hydration directly affects tissue elasticity. Dehydrated muscles and tendons are more prone to strain, especially when a horse goes straight from the trailer to the warm-up ring. Travel stress can also trigger low grade inflammation, which weakens soft tissue over time.
Tip: Encourage drinking before and during travel, and consider electrolyte support for longer trips or warmer weather.
Recovery starts the moment you arrive
One of the biggest mistakes riders make is treating arrival like "go time." Horses need recovery after hauling, even if they didn't work that day. Moving, stretching, and letting the body reset is key to preventing injuries down the line.
Tip: Prioritize hand-walking, turnout, and light movement before training or competition. Monitor legs for heat, swelling, or stiffness post-travel.
Build resilience from the inside out
While good management on the road is key, long-term tendon and ligament health starts before the trailer moves. That's where Tendonall comes in.
Formulated by veterinarians and trusted by top performance barns, Tendonall helps strengthen soft tissues, support healing, and reduce risk of injury–even under the stress of regular travel.
Travel isn't just about getting from point A to point B–it's another form of stress your horse needs help navigating. With smart routines and consistent support, you can help your horse stay strong, sound, and competition-ready, wherever the road takes you.