How to Trailer a Horse Safely

Posted by Anonymous , 9/4/2007 Tags:TrailerHorseSafely
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How to Trailer a Horse Safely

Introduction

Learning to trailer your horse safely is important for when you're attending shows or going on trail rides.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Steps

1

Step One

Use a vehicle that has sufficient power to tow a loaded horse trailer safely.
2

Step Two

Check all lights and turn signals to make sure they are working correctly.
3

Step Three

Refer to the trailer manufacturer to learn how to hook up the trailer properly. All trailers should have a chain hookup in addition to the trailer hitch for additional safety.
4

Step Four

Open the door and secure it so it doesn't hit the horse when entering.
5

Step Five

Walk the horse up to the open trailer and allow her to look inside, then stand on the near side of the horse and cluck to the horse.
6

Step Six

Tap the horse on the top of the left hip lightly with a crop to entice her to move forward. Ask again by clucking and lightly tapping the horse on the hip.
7

Step Seven

Do not force the horse. The horse is much bigger and much stronger than you and will always win.
8

Step Eight

Walk the horse away and try again if she refuses.
9

Step Nine

Allow the horse to walk inside. She will usually walk straight to the feed.
10

Step Ten

Tie the horse with enough slack that if she falls during transport she will not hang herself or break her neck.

Tips & Warnings

  • Open windows or turn on lights inside to illuminate the trailer. Horses do not like to load in the dark.
  • Lightly tap the horse repeatedly on her left hip to get her to move forward.
  • Try putting small amounts of food on the floor inside the trailer to entice her inside.
  • Make your first trailer ride a short one, even around the block.
  • Stop every couple of hours if on a long trailer ride to give your horse a rest. You don't have to let her out to rest.
  • Always be patient. It may take dozens of tries to get your horse to load. Reward your horse for every step in the right direction, even if it's only one step.
  • Any mishap or scare to the horse while loading or in transit could create a negative and lasting experience that will prevent the horse from ever trailering again. Be careful, you have precious cargo.
  • Never hit or beat the horse to get her inside; this will only scare her more, a fear she will associate with a trailer.

Overall Things You'll Need

  • 8-foot Lead Rope
  • Halter
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