ridecamp@endurance.net: Stock Trailer--How to Haul?

Stock Trailer--How to Haul?

Roberta Lieberman (rlieberman@phillips.com)
Tue, 26 Aug 1997 14:12:44 -0500

<<<1. When hauling a horse by himself, is it better to put the horse
in the front of the trailer (in front of the mid gate) or
in the back of the trailer (behind the mid gate).>>>

Other than short trips, I always put my horse in front...

<<<Why?>>>

...because there is much less trailer sway. The weight of the horse in
back can cause the trailer to fishtail.


<<<2. Is it better to tie them, or to leave them untied?>>>

I always leave my horse free in the eight foot long by six foot wide
by seven feet tall box...

<<<Why?>>>

...so she can choose her most comfortable position, which is butt to
the front of the trailer (which is curved), head to the mid-gate
munching hay. However, I know people who tie also with good results.

My mare ships like a dream free in the stock trailer and arrives at
rides relaxed and stress-free. She always turns around and faces
backward and as far as I know she has never lost her balance. When a
second horse comes along, he goes in the back stall untied as well,
with no problems. I try to drive smoothly, with no sudden stops,
starts or turns, and the trailer itself is quite heavy and stable with
thick rubber mats. I've had horses shipped commercially this way also.
(In fact, most shippers charge a premium for having a double-sized
stall.)

My mare used to be a problem loader (on two-horse forward-facing
trailers) but now she will load onto the stock trailer with the lead
rope slung over her neck. She loves her stock trailer and I wouldn't
ship her any other way.

My advice is to check over your trailer for roadworthiness (floor
boards, mats, rattles, etc.) to make sure some other factor isn't
contributing to your worry. (Is your horse worried?)

If you're worried, your horse will be worried. So unless there is a
structural reason for concern, I would just quit worrying and head on
down the road.


Bobbie Lieberman and Fine Print ("Can I stay on the trailer?")

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