How to Trailer a Horse
Some horseback trails are just at a riding distance, and you can easily ride your horse over to them, without much difficulty. There are trails though, that are too far away, that it’s a much better option to trailer the horse. This can be a tricky procedure, especially for newbies, so here are some steps to remember.
What You’ll Need:
A horse
Trailer that’s compatible with the towing device
Hauling truck in good condition
Lead rope
Well-fitting and sturdy halter
Head protector, light sheet and leg wraps
Trailer tie (optional)
Hay
Procedure:
Check the trailer and make sure it’s in good condition. Never put your horse in a trailer that might compromise his safety.
Position the trailer in a level area that gives good footing for your horse, as well as plenty of clearance around the trailer, so there’ll be enough access to all the doors.
Load the trailer with your gear. You’ll need grooming supplies, tack, feed, and some camping gear. Make sure you’ve got all you need for wherever you plan to go, as well as some spares, just in case some of your stuff are lost or broken.
Fill the hay manger, feed bins and haynets with hay. This is important if you’re traveling long distances, so your horse will be happy and well-fed. If you’re only going to shorter local hauls, then you can do away with this.
Ready your horse. Out him in a sturdy and well-fitting halter. For long distances, wrap his or her legs in a standing wrap or shipping boots, for ample protection. A light sheet would be great if it’s cold outside. A head bumper or face guard can protect his or her head.
Carefully load your horse into the trailer. If you’re using a side by side trailer, load your horse in the left hand stall, since it will tow more safely, if the trailer’s heavy side is in the road center. For a slant load trailer, load your horse in the front stall, to balance the trailer better.
Latch and close the reardoors and buttbars. Secure the chains.
Tie the horse to tie rings. Use a trailer tie with a quick release snap function, then hook it to the tie ring on the halter, as well as the tie ring on the trailer. Remove your horse’s lead rope, so he won’t be tangled in it. Use the rope and tie it to the tie ring directly, with a quick release knot.
Close all the side doors, rear doors, drop down windows and tack room doors. Make sure they are latched tightly and won’t open accidentally when you drive.
Open the air vents on the doors and windows. This will allow plenty of air to move through the trailer.
Do a final walk around, checking all the wheels, doors and hitch, making sure nothing has been left behind and left unattended.
Start driving. Do it as gently as possible. Take corners smoothly and slowly, and never accelerate until the railer has gone through the corner. Stop smoothly and slowly, too. Stop for every four hours of journey to allow the horse to stretch, drink and rest. Remember, he or she has been standing all the time!
Once you reach the area, park in a flat, wide-spaced area. Gravel or flat dirt is good.
Unload the horse, untying them and making sure the lead rope is attached. Carefully back him or her out, or let him or her turn around. Tie your horse to your trailer, and check for injuries, unwrapping the legs. Offer your horse something to drink.
You can ride your horse anywhere you like as long as you know how to trailer him or her properly. Just follow these tips, and enjoy riding your pet anytime and anywhere you like.