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Biosecurity Guidelines

Protecting the health of all horses is a shared responsibility. These guidelines apply to all StableStop bookings and help prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Before You Travel

  • 1Ensure your horse's vaccinations are up to date, including influenza (within the last 6 months) and tetanus.
  • 2Check your horse's passport is valid, up to date, and travelling with the horse at all times (a legal requirement in the UK).
  • 3Monitor your horse for signs of illness in the 48 hours before travel. Do not travel if your horse shows any symptoms.
  • 4Clean and disinfect your horsebox or trailer thoroughly before loading.
  • 5Pack your own feed, hay, and water buckets to minimise cross-contamination.

On Arrival

  • 1Present your horse's passport and vaccination records to the host on arrival.
  • 2Use the designated parking and unloading area.
  • 3Allow the host to inspect your horse before stabling if requested.
  • 4Use disinfectant foot baths if provided at the yard entrance.
  • 5Wash your hands before and after handling horses on the premises.

During Your Stay

  • 1Keep your horse in the allocated stable or area only.
  • 2Do not allow nose-to-nose contact between your horse and resident horses unless the host permits it.
  • 3Use only the equipment and areas designated for visiting horses.
  • 4Clean up after your horse promptly — remove droppings from communal areas.
  • 5Report any signs of illness in your horse to the host immediately.

On Departure

  • 1Leave the stable clean and tidy — remove all bedding, droppings, and personal items.
  • 2Disinfect any shared equipment you used.
  • 3Notify the host of your departure time.
  • 4If your horse became ill during the stay, inform the host and seek veterinary advice before travelling.

Disease Notification

  • 1If a notifiable disease is suspected (e.g. equine influenza, strangles, EHV), contact your vet and APHA (Animal and Plant Health Agency) immediately.
  • 2Inform the host and any other riders who may have been in contact.
  • 3Do not move the horse until veterinary clearance is given.
  • 4APHA helpline: 03000 200 301 (England), 0300 303 8268 (Wales), 03000 996 999 (Scotland).

Useful Links

  • DEFRA — Equine identification and biosecurity: gov.uk/guidance/equine-identification
  • British Equestrian — Biosecurity resources: britishequestrian.org.uk
  • BHS — Safe stabling guidelines: bhs.org.uk