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Safety Tips - Trailering
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Loading
a horse on a trailer should be done by two persons if
at all possible.
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Check the horse and trailer hitch at every stop.
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Opinions vary on hauling a horse tied or loose. If
you tie, allow sufficient length of rope so the horse can
move its head for balance. Use a safety release or a quick-release
knot.
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Always
stand to one side, never directly behind, when loading
or unloading a horse from a trailer or truck.
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It is safest to remove all equipment (bridles, saddle,
etc.) before loading. Use your halter.
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Be certain the ground area behind and around the truck or
trailer affords safe footing before loading or unloading.
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Never throw lighted cigarettes or matches from a car or
truck window. You might start a fire in the area or the
wind might suck them into the trailer.
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Distribute the weight of the load evenly. When
hauling one horse, it is considered safest to load it on the left side
of the trailer.
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Always
speak to a horse in a truck or trailer before
attempting to handle it
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The circumstances of loading a
horse vary, but the following methods are given
in order of preference:
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Train
the horse so it can be sent into the trailer.
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In
a two-horse trailer lead the horse into the left
side while you stand on the right side of
the center divider, or vice versa.
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It
is least desirable to get in front and lead the
horse in. Never do this without an escape
door or front exit. Even with a door, use
caution-most are awkward to get through, and
also, horses have been known to follow the
handler out.
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The trailer should be high enough to give a horse ample
neck and head room. Remove or cover any protruding
objects.
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Be certain the trailer meets State requirements for brakes
and lights
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Make sure the trailer is properly constructed. You
may need to ask an expert about this.
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If you have trouble loading or unloading, get experienced
help
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Secure the butt bar or chain before tying the horse.
Use care when reaching for it. Ease it down when you
unfasten it to avoid bumping the horse's legs.
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In unloading, always untie a horse before opening the gate
or door.
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Avoid slick trailer floors. Use matting or some type
of bedding for secure footing.
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Horses are like people-some get sick from motion. Adjust
the feeding schedule to avoid traveling when the horse is
full of feed and water. Feed smaller amounts more often if necessary.
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If hauling in a truck or other open carrier, you should
protect the horse's eyes from wind and foreign objects.
Use goggles or some type of wind shield.
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It is safer when hauling a stallion with other horses to
load the stallion first and to unload it last.
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Check your trailer regularly for:
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When driving always:
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- Double check all connections (lights,
brakes, hitch, and safety chains).
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- Be certain all doors are closed and secured.
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- Drive carefully. Make turns slowly.
Start and stop slowly and steadily.
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2003 Moniteau Saddle Club
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