Heading south to Goethe and nervous traveler (horse)

[RISTREE@aol.com]

Looks like hubby and I are going to make a two day haul south to Goethe (FL) to do some camping and conditioning prior to heading back north for the Hallelujah (SC) and home again.

For those who "know" Goethe, would love suggestions, dos/don'ts, details about the terrain/footing/scenery, ideas for things to do (other than riding), etc.  It's our first time there, and we are pumped!  (Did I mention it is 23 degrees and snowing here in WNY?)  You can email me at ristree@aol.com

My biggest concern about the trip is that we'll be doing two 12+ hour days with the horses in the trailer on the way down.  My husband's horse is one whose idea of a good time is eating, anywhere, anything.  My horse, who is a bit younger, is also a bit of a nervous traveler.  He loads and does okay when we're moving, but tends to get rather restless if we stop for any length of time (pawing, doing the Purina chow-chow-chow walk back and forth in the slant load trailer stall, etc.)  He rarely eats much on the road, and doesn't generally drink when it's offered (in the trailer).

Do you think we should unload him every few hours to walk him around and let him eat grass?  Or are there some inside secrets on getting this guy to settle down and eat?

(We always 'lyte prior to trailering, offer water--from home, carrots and beet pulp when we stop, and have a hay bag in front of each horse.)

Thanks in advance.

--Patti