About Open Strides

Hi, I’m Nicola, founder of Open Strides Horse Transport, based in Dorset. I’ve been riding for over 20 years and grew up around horses here in Dorset, where I still live and run my business today. 

After volunteering in South Africa on a horse safari and rescue programme, my passion for horse welfare and calm, thoughtful handling became the foundation of Open Strides. My own horse, Lilly, is at the heart of everything I do and sets the standard for the care I provide.

Open Strides offers professional, stress-free horse transport across Dorset and the UK, with your horse’s comfort and safety as the top priority.

Our DEFRA-approved horsebox is meticulously maintained and fully equipped for equine comfort, including electric ventilation, reinforced flooring, stallion partition, on-board CCTV, fresh water and hay, and thorough cleaning after every journey.

I am APHA certified, DEFRA authorised, and hold a Type 2 Transport Licence for long-distance journeys over 8 hours. 

Open Strides is fully insured, including Public Liability and Care, Custody and Control insurance, and I am qualified in Animal Welfare with a Certificate of Competence.

Whether it’s a short local move or long-distance transport, Open Strides provides calm, reliable horse transportation you can trust.