Introduction:
Today, we’re going to delve into the topic of trailer loading and discuss the common problems that arise during this process. It’s crucial to address any mistakes or behaviors on our part that may contribute to trailer loading issues before we can effectively work with our horses. In this article, we will explore some typical errors people make and provide insights into the correct way to load a horse into a trailer.
Practice Makes Perfect: One significant mistake many horse owners make is waiting until they’re ready to go somewhere before loading their horse into the trailer. Without prior practice and familiarization with the trailer, rushing the loading process can create anxiety and problems for both the horse and handler. To avoid this, it’s essential to practice trailer loading with your horse beforehand.
Preparing the Trailer:
Before practicing trailer loading, ensure that your trailer is securely hooked up to a truck or stable support. For small trailers, consider using blocks to prevent the back of the trailer from lowering when the horse steps inside. Stability is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of the horse during the loading process.
Confidence and Momentum:
A common mistake handlers make is stopping the horse right at the back of the trailer, reinforcing the horse’s worry about entering it. To encourage a positive association with the trailer, it’s crucial to act confidently and lead the horse into the trailer without hesitation. Whether you choose to walk into the trailer with the horse or send them in depends on personal preference and the specific horse’s needs.
Tying in the Trailer:
The decision to tie a horse in the trailer varies among individuals. For open stock trailers, it’s generally recommended to tie the horse for safety. However, if you choose to tie, ensure that you use a method that allows the horse to break loose if necessary. Consider the horse’s behavior and temperament when making this decision, as safety should always be the top priority. Never tie a horse in a trailer with the lead rope. Most horse deaths in trailers occur because the horse is tied without a breakaway device, causing the horse to break its neck.
Loading the Horse:
When loading a horse into the trailer, it’s essential to maintain clear communication and instill confidence in the animal. Tim Anderson prefers wrapping the lead rope around the horse’s neck, ensuring it doesn’t fall to the ground or interfere with movement inside the trailer. By leaving the lead rope attached, it provides an additional means to control or secure the horse if required.
Keeping the Horse Comfortable:
To make the trailer a safe and comfortable environment for the horse, it’s essential to consider various factors. During transportation, make slow turns and avoid abrupt maneuvers to prevent discomfort or anxiety for the horse. Adjust the trailer’s conditions according to the weather—using blankets in cold weather and ensuring proper ventilation in hot weather.
Addressing Leading Skills:
If your horse doesn’t lead well, it’s crucial to work on leading skills before addressing trailer loading. Leading effectively establishes trust, cooperation, and communication between the horse and handler. By having a solid foundation in leading, the horse will be more inclined to follow your guidance when approaching the trailer.
Creating Positive Experiences:
For horses that are nervous about trailer loading, it’s crucial to allow them ample time inside the trailer to overcome their anxiety. By giving them positive experiences, gradually increasing the duration of their stay, and releasing them when they are calm, you reinforce their confidence in the trailer. However, be cautious not to exhaust the horse or create negative associations by hauling them excessively before they are comfortable. It can be helpful to feed the horse in the trailer regularly to instill in the horse that the trailer is a good place to be.
Unloading from the Trailer:
Unloading the horse from the trailer can also impact future trailer loading experiences. While some believe horses should back out of the trailer, it may cause anxiety if the horse is not comfortable with this maneuver. Tim Anderson suggests allowing horses to turn around and exit the trailer if it helps establish comfort and confidence. Once the horse is comfortable, you can gradually work on teaching them to back out if necessary.
Conclusion:
Trailer loading can be a challenging aspect of horse training, but with proper techniques and understanding, it can become a smooth and stress-free process for both the horse and handler. Remember to practice beforehand, ensure trailer stability, build confidence, and create positive experiences for the horse. By addressing your actions and considering the horse’s needs, you can overcome trailer loading problems and build a strong partnership with your equine companion. For more trailer loading information, you can watch my video, Most common trailer loading mistakes you don’t know you’re doing, on YouTube.
Thank you for reading, if your horse is not respecting your commands on the ground, and you need to do some groundwork in preparation for trailer loading you might find this article helpful, Working with a Pushy Horse: Finding Balance and Establishing Respect.