FREE SHIPPING ON ALL U.S. ORDERS OVER $250

0

Your Cart is Empty

Horse Trailering Tips and Safety

January 11, 2019 3 min read

Patience and preparation can make every travel experience a safe, trouble-free one for your horse. Ideally, if you get a horse at a young age you can introduce them to the trailer early as a part of learning ground manners and desensitizing them. If you buy a horse at an older age that was not properly trained as a weanling or yearling, they may have a fear of the trailer. As horse owners, we always want our horses to be comfortable in the trailer. Horses are generally under high stress when they are being hauled so the best thing, we can do for them is make them comfortable! *Very importantly regular maintenance checks should be performed on a horse trailer every time it is used.

Preparing the horse:

  1. Practice loading and unloading the horse in the trailer well in advance of any scheduled events, especially if the horse is unfamiliar with trailering. A battle getting into the trailer is an unpleasant way to start a journey.
  2. Horses should be trailered in a leather halter, or nylon halter with a breakaway piece. In an emergency (such as the halter becoming snagged) a leather halter will break more easily and is less likely to injure or burn the horse’s head.
  3. Tie halter semi loose to keep his head from looking backwards
  4. There are many options for protecting the horse’s legs during travel. If leg wraps are worn, it is important that the wraps are applied properly for the style and type of wrap.
  5. Always remove all tack (saddle, bridle, harness) from the horse when trailering.
  6. If the trailer is a stock trailer or has open vents, wet or clipped horses should be blanketed if the weather is chilly.

Loading the Horse:

  1. Make sure the trailer is secured and properly hitched to the towing vehicle before loading a horse.
  2. Approach the trailer from a distance, so that the horse has momentum when it steps up on the ramp. Walk in a straight line up the center of the ramp.
  3. Before you load the horse make sure you have a clear escape route if needed.
  4. If a single horse is to travel in a dual-horse trailer, put it on the side closest to the middle of the road, for a smoother ride.
  5. Ask a helper to fasten the bar or chain behind the horse and close the ramp once you are inside the trailer.
  6. You can provide the horse with a small hay net to prevent the horse from becoming bored during the journey.
  7. Check that your trailer is not too hot, and your horse is well hydrated.
  8. During long hauls, stop every 3-4 hours to offer your horse water.
Acclimating your horse to the trailer with loading and unloading and taking mini trips is one of the best things you can do to travel safely. Consider some of these horse trailering tips the next time you prepare for a haul and safe travels! For added comfort and protection for your horse with trailering Benefab has just the thing! The Antimicrobial Therapeutic VersiWraps fabric is made up of ceramic Nano-particles which emits far-infrared rays keeping muscles, joints, tendons, and ligament supple and relaxed. These wraps are flexible enough to be worn in light exercise or to be used as a standing bandage in the stable, or for trailering. If you aren’t into wrapping, we also have the Therapeutic Smart QuickWraps, these wraps can be worn for up to 12 hours and are contoured for comfort with strong securing straps and perforated foam in the core. They will not shift, slide down, or rotate.


Also in Blog

Dog Cancer Symptoms: Key Indicators and Early Detection Strategies
Dog Cancer Symptoms: Key Indicators and Early Detection Strategies

September 21, 2023 5 min read

Cancer in dogs is an unfortunate reality that many pet owners face. Early detection of signs plays a crucial role in providing better treatment options and increasing the chances of overcoming the disease. Familiarizing oneself with the common symptoms of cancer in dogs can significantly help pet owners take timely action, ensuring their canine companions receive appropriate care and support.
Horse Topline Exercises: Effective Techniques for a Stronger Back
Horse Topline Exercises: Effective Techniques for a Stronger Back

September 14, 2023 4 min read

A strong and healthy topline is crucial for a horse's overall health and performance. The top line, which encompasses the muscles that run along the horse's spine from the withers to the croup, plays a vital role in supporting the rider's weight and maintaining proper balance.

What Is PEMF Therapy For Horses?
What Is PEMF Therapy For Horses?

September 07, 2023 4 min read

PEMF therapy is a rising star in the equine world, offering remarkable benefits for horse well-being. By utilizing electromagnetic waves to trigger natural healing, this non-invasive technique is transforming horse treatment. Unveiling the potential of PEMF therapy sheds light on its role in improving equine health, recovery, and performance. Its unique qualities, including pain relief, inflammation reduction, and tissue repair, make it an invaluable addition to horse care.