Magic Horse Loader

Loading difficult or anxious horses into floats or barrier stalls poses a serious risk to both animals and humans, with 21% of horse owners reporting loading problems. Incidents have resulted in injuries, fatalities, scratched racehorses, and delays in getting to an event on time. The challenge was to create a humane, effective solution operable by one person that works seamlessly within racing and equestrian environments. The Magic Horse Loader eye cover and tunnel allows the horse to see the ground but not the feared object, float or barrier stall creating a magical illusion ensuring calm and controlled forward movement.

The Magic Horse Loader uses a visual tunnel that mimics a sunlit paddock to calm horses and encourage forward movement. Developed through research into equine vision and behaviour, the loader includes quick-release Velcro straps, fits over race blinkers, and is compatible with existing workflows. Its lightweight, durable materials were selected to withstand racing and environmental conditions, and the entire design allows one handler to load a horse safely reducing risk and stress for both horse and human.

The Magic Horse Loader delivers significant commercial, environmental, and societal benefits. It enhances safety during horse float and barrier loading by reducing the risk of injuries, race delays, and scratching's—lowering veterinary costs and financial losses. Its use increases efficiency on race days and at equestrian events. Constructed from recyclable, UV- and heat-resistant materials, it supports sustainability through durability and low waste. By addressing a widespread industry challenge with an animal-centered solution, the design improves welfare outcomes for horses and safety for handlers and riders. Its adoption has the potential to reshape standard practices across the racing and equestrian industries.

•Visual tunnel creates the illusion of a sunlit paddock, calming horses using their natural instincts and dichromatic vision. •Shatterproof, non-transparent eye cups reduce external visual stress while allowing ground visibility. •Top and lower adjustable Velcro straps allow for a secure yet easily removable fit. •Designed to fit over race blinkers or visor blinkers for seamless integration into pre-race routines. •Quick-release tab allows the handler to remove the hood quickly and safely before the race begins. •Lightweight synthetic polymer materials offer flexibility, UV and chemical resistance, and excellent memory retention. •Durable in all weather conditions — water-resistant and resistant to warping, cracking, and deformation. •Ergonomic design positions the handler outside of the horse’s kick zone for maximum safety. •Can be operated by a single handler, reducing staff requirements and improving control. •Available in horse and pony sizes, adaptable to various equestrian disciplines beyond racing. These features make the Magic Horse Loader a practical and innovative tool that improves safety, performance, and animal welfare. •Imagine if a person was pointing a gun at you or you were blindfolded, you would hesitate. However, if you could not see the feared object but could see the ground, your confidence to move forward would increase significantly.