By: Matthew M. Brendal
TOWING VEHICLE & HORSE TRAILER SAFETY
The vehicle used to tow your horse trailer must be safe and function properly. Because of the extra strain placed of the towing vehicle you may have to provide a shorter interval between normal scheduled maintenance. Things like brakes, tires, oil, transmission fluid, shocks my have shorter lives depending on the amount of miles you tow your trailer.
The trailer should be inspected each time you use it. Depending upon the amount of use and where the trailer is stored has an influence on maintenance schedule. If a trailer is used often then tire wear is a concern. Also trailers require special tires because of the load placed on them. Trailers do not use tires normally designed for passenger vehicles. Trailers stored outside for long periods of time may develop dry rot on the tires. The trailer should also be lubricated at any zerk fitting or wheel hubs as outlined in the owner’s manual. Because manure and dirt causes rust and corrosion the trailer should be cleaned each time after use. Any broken pieces or jagged metal should be repaired immediately. It is very important to thoroughly inspect the trailer floors for rot or corrosion. Horse manure/urine can accelerate floor decay, I would recommend washing the trailer after using the trailer.
Safe Loading Practices
- Double-check that the trailer is securely hitched
- Park on level surface with good footing
- Ensure the floor is clean before loading horses
- Load stallions in front, mares and gelding in rear
- Load horses by size, larger horses in front & smaller in rear
- Use butt bar/chain in case door opens
- Tie lead rope so horse can move head side to side for balance
- Untie lead rope before removing butt bar/chain
Safe Hauling Practices
- The younger the horse the more frequent the rest stops
- Check for dehydration (skin turgor) at each rest stop
- Check for any injuries/illness at each rest stop
- Drive with respect for the horse riding the back, no quick stops or sharp rapid turns.
- Supply horse(s) with hay during the entire transport
- Allow if possible on very long trips 24 hours to recover before a high level of demand is placed on them.
- Provide as comfortable environment as possible including good ventilation. Respiratory problems such as shipping fever and pneumonia are results from poor transportation practices.
- If hauling young horses such as foals, weanlings and yearlings make sure they are halter broke/trained. Don’t let the first trip be a long one, make frequent stops to check on them.
- Conduct maintenance checks on the towing vehicle and its condition during the entire trip.
- Don’t allow the horse(s) to place its head out of the window if available on your horse trailer. The horse may get eye injuries or head injuries from flying debris or other materials.
Travel Documents
Depending on the state(s) you are traveling through you may have to provide certain documentation to law enforcement or agricultural officials. The following documents should be carried in the vehicle when transporting your horse(s):
- Copy of Negative Coggins Test
- Copy of Vaccination Certificates
- Copy of Horse Registration Papers or Bill of Sale
- Copy of Brand Inspection
- Copy of Truck and Trailer Registration
Horses riding in trailer never really rest. Getting the horse out of the trailer every 3-4 hours for water and walking/rest is the rule of thumb for a rest stop. The rest stop should last about 15 minutes, so give you can clean the trailer floor, inspect the trailer, check the tires, inspect the horse and adjust the tack or other equipment used during the transport.
Often horses don’t drink enough water while being trailered. A well-hydrated horse will have a better attitude and remain healthier than a dehydrated horse. Horses often develop a “taste” for the water at home and may cause the horse not to drink as much as they should. One way is to put an additive in the water such as Gatorade™. The horse must acquire a taste for this product but once they do they will be able to have a familiar taste. A product with potassium should not be given to a horse with HYPP symptoms.
Travel Rest Stops
