Summers are getting hotter and more extreme – and this has direct consequences for the transport of animals. An important change is coming in the Netherlands: a ban on transporting livestock at temperatures above 30 degrees Celsius is being prepared. This limit is currently 35 degrees Celsius, but is expected to be lowered by April 1, 2027.
Although this regulation officially targets livestock, it is highly likely that it will also affect horse transport. It is therefore important for horse owners, riders, and professionals to be prepared for this now.
What exactly is changing?
The current standard of 35°C has long been considered too high from an animal welfare perspective. Based on research and political pressure, it has been decided to lower this limit to 30°C.
This specifically means:
- Animal transport will be restricted sooner on hot days
- More competitions and events will be under pressure
- Stricter welfare requirements during transport
And with the increasing number of tropical days in the Netherlands, this is becoming an increasingly relevant topic.
What does this mean for horse transport?
Protocols for extreme temperatures are already in place within the equine sector. For example, events are often cancelled at temperatures above 35°C.
However, there are exceptions.
Professional riders, for example, are often allowed to transport at higher temperatures, provided they have:
- trucks with air conditioning
- optimal ventilation
- facilities for actively cooling horses
This underscores one important point: cooling and ventilation make all the difference.
Why heat is such a big risk for horses
Risks of transport in heat:
- overheating (heat stress)
- dehydration
- reduced performance
- in severe cases: colic or even life-threatening
Even at temperatures below 30°C, the temperature in a trailer can be significantly higher.
The solution: active cooling and ventilation
To continue transporting safely – and to be prepared for future regulations – it is becoming increasingly important to actively cool during transport and at competitions.
A practical and effective solution is the Horse Watch AirGo cordless fan.
Why the Horse Watch AirGo is a smart investment
Key benefits:
✔ Completely cordless
No hassle with cables or power outlets. Ideal for trailers, trucks, and at competition venues.
✔ Immediate cooling during transport
Ensures air circulation in enclosed spaces such as trailers – essential in warm weather.
✔ Compact and flexibly deployable
Easy to attach and move. Can be used in:
- trailer
- stable
- grooming area
- at competitions
✔ Safe and quiet
Specially designed for use around horses, without stress or noise disturbance.
✔ Supports animal welfare
Helps prevent heat stress and contributes to comfortable and responsible transport.
Practical tips for transport in warm weather
In addition to good ventilation, there are other things to consider:
- Plan transport early in the morning or late in the evening
- Always ensure sufficient water
- Park in the shade as much as possible
- Regularly check your horse during transport
- Use aids such as fans for extra cooling
Forward thinking = responsible horse keeping
The expectation is clear: regulations are becoming stricter and summers are getting warmer. By investing now in solutions such as good ventilation and active cooling, you prevent problems in the future.
The Horse Watch AirGo cordless fan perfectly aligns with this: practical, effective, and directly applicable.
ORDER YOUR AIRGO HERE:
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