Trainer Tips
Coming soon to this site will be a section devoted to tips provided by our knowledgeable trainers. Each will highlight a common issue and how to resolve it. Come back soon to see the tips listed and feel free to request a resolution to a problem you may be having.
Thanks for the questions so far!!! Keep them coming!!!!
Tip #1 : How to Pull a Horse's Mane
Tip #2 : How to trailer safely in cold weather
While trailering horses in the winter is not all that different from trailering any time of the year,
you do need to make a few adjustments for hauling in cold weather
The basic rules always apply but here are some additional concerns of horses during cold weather:
- One of the most confusing decisions when trailering in cold weather is whether to blanket your horse. Horses are very comfortable in cold conditions, and most will travel very well during the winter. Two important factors should be considered when making this decision:
- The trailer should be well-ventilated. A trailer that is not properly ventilated becomes filled with toxic air from the hay dust, shavings, and any gases from urine and manure. The body heat produced by the horses also builds up inside the trailer.
- Be sure to keep the horse hydrated, especially in the winter, as dehydration is a common cause of colic. Horses can become dehydrated during the winter if they do not drink or if they lose water through perspiration. A horse that is dressed too warmly will tend to lose more fluids than he should.
- Be sure to dress the horse according to the situation. If the horse has a full winter coat he should not need a blanket for the trailer trip. If you have a stock trailer that does not have windows that close, a light sheet can protect the horse from the wind. If the horse is body clipped or does not have a heavy coat, he should wear the same weight blanket that he would normally wear, and trailer vents and windows should be open.
- Long-distance trips require a little more preparation. Be ready for driving through different temperatures. Pack blankets of different weights so you can change them should the weather change during travel. Be sure the horse does not sweat too much, as he could get wet and chilled.