Imagine trying to balance yourself inside a moving vehicle on the highway. That might be a relatively easy task. Now try to remain standing while the driver is negotiating turns, making sudden stops, changing lanes, fluctuating speed. Not so easy, is it? That’s a little bit like what a horse goes through in a trailer.
Transporting a horse in a trailer can be a nerve-wracking experience. True, horses have four legs with which to balance, but the entire process isn’t an easy one, and it can be difficult on everyone involved. Here’s a primer on the things you can do to make it better the next time you travel with a horse.
Inspect the trailer, the hitch and your vehicle
Most of us never bother to check our vehicles before driving even though we should. However, give your mode of transportation a solid inspection prior to the trip. Check tires, lights, brakes and engine fluids. Make sure your butt/breast bars, posts and dividers can be removed during an emergency. Check your hitch to make sure it’s safe and road-worthy, and that the trailer’s emergency brake box has been tested. You’ll also want to make sure the vents fully open and close no matter the time of year. Check for a truck jack and tire chocks, too.
Loading and unloading
This part of the trip should never be underestimated. In fact, you’d do good to practice this several times before you actually need to transport him – it’s not uncommon to witness horses banging their heads onto the trailer roof or running into owners while loading. Keep all of the doors open prior to loading so that the trailer doesn’t look so claustrophobic, tight and dark. While unloading, take your time and move with purpose and care.
Consider safety measures inside the trailer
The entire floor should be nonslip, and absorbent bedding helps to soak up urine and manure. You’ll also want to make sure your horse has enough lead to allow adequate movement. Too long of a load can get him tangled. The lead should be attached with a quick release knot or snap so he can be untied quickly, if needed.
Offer distractions
Trips can be long, so a horse shouldn’t remain in the trailer for more than 18 hours without given some rest and stretch time. Food is important, so offering them a full hay net will help them to pass the time and feel less antsy.
Mind your driving
Exhibiting careful driving will definitely affect how well your horse travels. Many horses are poor travelers because of the way owners drive, so it’s important to keep a good distance between you and other vehicles because it will take you longer to stop. Be mindful of how you stop, start, change lanes, turn corners and even back up. All of it will make your horse more tolerable of your next road trip.
