My Soapbox for Equestrian Writings
Each spring when I pull out my trailer it gets a complete “going over” before a horse steps foot in it. We check the electrical system — one year mice feasted on the wiring which left me with no brakes or turn signals — pull the mats out, check the integrity of the floor and […]
Read MoreI’ve always shipped my horse with hay — and usually with either shavings or straw on the trailer floor. However, recently I was reading a forum post where several people indicated they did not trailer with either hay or shavings. The main reason was that hay and shavings can blow around while the trailer is […]
Read MoreThat’s hitch, not itch. In the past I’ve written about how choosing a weight distributing hitch with anti-sway bars can make your ride safer (Trailer safety: Choosing the right hitch). And I am a stickler for checking the trailer coupler, the tow ball, and the electrical system/brakes every time I tow. But I haven’t given […]
Read MoreThere’s been an excellent series of articles running in the Chronicle of the Horse on Trailering safety. Even experienced drivers should read this as we gear up for our competitive seasons. I had a late start to my season and when I pulled out my trailer for the first time I discovered my sway bar […]
Read MoreIt’s no fun to be close to a horse that is panicking and tied — whether it be in a cross tie or a trailer. While some people strongly believe that it’s safer if the horse can’t get break loose, I have been in situations where a quick release mechanism would have been essential. For […]
Read MoreWe’ve all been in this situation. You have somewhere to go and yet your horse will not get on the trailer. You start off calm and after 15 minutes your temper flares and your horse becomes increasingly obstinate. I once missed an event because my horse wouldn’t load. I know people who’ve literally spent hours […]
Read MoreLast winter I had a terrifying experience when trailering my horse. I loaded him up after the last hunt of the season, enjoyed a lively tea, and after checking on my boy, drove the five or so miles home. About half way there, I heard some kicking. I didn’t stop as we were almost home, […]
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