Re: how far to rides?

[CMKSAGEHIL <CMKSAGEHIL@aol.com>]

One must remember when hauling horses long distances that horses have
different tolerances for hauling, just like people do for extensive travel.  I
have been fortunate to own horses that thrive on travel, eat every morsel put
in front of them, drink well, pee in the trailer, and sleep on the road at
night.  Have hauled others that are Nervous Nellies, and really need to get
out once in awhile.  The secret is to KNOW YOUR OWN HORSE, just like in every
other aspect of this sport.

I think the biggest single problem I see in stressed horses from long hauls is
the quality of the driving!  Have ridden with some people, and even in the
cab, I can understand why their horses get out of the trailer looking like
they just got drug through a knothole backwards.  These folks are heavy on the
accelerator and/or heavy on the brakes.  Or they weave.  Or they can't
maintain a steady speed.  The poor horse is constantly trying to balance, and
that is a lot of work.  If a horse is fortunate to have a rider-driver that
drives like silk, they tend to arrive in good shape and ready to do whatever
asked.  This also applies to trips home after the ride.  Be VERY critical of
your driving--if you are unsure, have an experienced hauler ride with you
sometime and critique you.  You might be surprised what they have to say!

Heidi