The Toll Trailer Travel Takes On Horses

 
A horse isnt simply standing in a trailer during the trip back to the barn hes making constant adjustments to maintain his balance through every curve and acceleration.
You think youre tired as you drive the trailer home after a long day of showing? Imagine how your horse feels. In addition to the competition he had to work during the entire ride home.
A trailer ride can be exhausting for a horse.
A horse isnt simply standing in a trailer during the trip back to the barn hes making constant adjustments to maintain his balance through every curve and acceleration. Throw in dealing with a grumpy companion and youve got the makings of a potentially exhausting ride. A tired horse is more likely to be injured in a trailer as he struggles to stay on his feet and fatigue can lower his immune function leaving him susceptible to illness in the aftermath of the trip.

Keep all of this in mind as you plan your competition daysor any other awayfromhome event. For starters your horse needs to be fit enough to not just participate in the activity but cope with the ride home. If he seems particularly bushed after an event give him an hour to rest and rehydrate before loading up. Also do your best to ensure the inside of the trailer is as comfortable as possible. Open or close vents to control the airflow and temperature and wet down any hay or bedding to reduce airborne dust particles. Then as you drive be mindful of stops and starts and take corners as smoothly as you can.
For particularly stressful events or long drives consider staying overnight if thats an option. Heading home after everyonehuman and horsehas had a good nights sleep makes for a much safer journey.
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