• Home
• Horse
  Trailers
  • Horse Trailer Models
  • Horse Trailers
    for Sale
  • Custom Horse Trailers
  • Hitches & Brakes
• Options &
  Accessories
  • Trailer Awnings
  • Trailer Covers
  • Trim Options
  • Generators
• Trailer
  Safety
• Contact
  Double D
  • Contact Us
  • Trailer Blog

Tips to Make Shipping Less Stressful for Your Horse

No matter how you slice it, traveling in a horse trailer is a stressful experience for your horse. Only the most seasoned shipper is likely to take it in stride. But until your horse reaches that status, there are things you can do to relieve some of the trauma involved in hauling. 

1.    Make sure your horse fits in the trailer. That’s right; your horse shouldn’t have to duck his head when he walks on the trailer or tuck his fanny under him because the trailer length is too short. He should be able to stand comfortably and naturally. This is important because it aids him in supporting himself properly while traveling. Shipping is hard work for your horse; give him a comfortable environment to travel in. 

2.    Provide enough ventilation. Most experts agree that the best ventilation is centrally located over the horse’s head. Time of year will also determine how much air flow you’ll want to provide. In summer, you’ll want the windows open. Ideally, those located near the horse’s head will be screened to keep out debris, particles, etc. During winter in cold climates, wide open windows would be too drafty, but cracking the windows is a good idea to let fresh air in, especially if you’ve blanketed your horse. 

3.    Add a little bedding. Putting bedding on the trailer floor is helpful, particularly on long trips. Some horses don’t like to urinate in the trailer because of “splash back.” In addition, bedding protects the trailer mats from becoming slick as well as protecting the floors. Wood shavings are usually preferable to straw because they are more absorbent. 

4.     Don’t tie too short. If you’re hauling two horses in a straight-load trailer, this might be difficult to avoid, especially if the pair don’t get along. But try to keep the ties long enough so the horse can lower his head to clear his air passages.  

These simple tips can help make your horse’s shipping experience more comfortable and less stressful. And less stress for him means less stress for you.