As an important part of our program at Iron Spring Farm, we teach our young horses to confidently load on to the trailer. This important skill is necessary for traveling to shows or in case of emergency. Quinnten Alston, sales manager at ISF, shares how we help build our horses’ trailer confidence here at Iron Spring Farm.
Establish Groundwork
You must establish a solid base of groundwork training with your young horse before you begin teaching him to load on to a trailer. Your young horse must reliably move away from pressure applied to both the front and hind end. He should also have a good understanding of your personal space. Once your young horse is solid in his groundwork, you’re ready to introduce him to the trailer.
Getting Started
To begin, select a quiet, safe loading location and make sure the footing surface is solid, so your horse has good traction. You don't want him to fall or lose his balance. Create an inviting environment by opening the trailer doors and windows, which makes the space feel bigger and brighter. A secure atmosphere supports your horse’s confidence.
You want to teach your horse to move forward, rather than back, as you walk toward the trailer, so have a helper who can encourage your horse from behind. Patience is an important component for success. It’s okay to do a little bit each time you practice loading rather than trying to load the horse on the same day you introduce the experience.
Keep in mind, changes in footing can worry a horse, so their first time walking on to the trailer ramp might be unsettling. Asking your young horse to stand with their front feet quietly on and off the trailer ramp is a great start. Offer your horse positive encouragement and rewards for every step forward.
Return to your groundwork training if your horse struggles to move forward or back up when you ask. Reintroduce the trailer once the core training is solid.
Success
When your horse walks onto the trailer for the first time, give them a few moments to stand and look out while you offer treats, grain, or pats as encouragement. The goal is for your horse to remain relaxed while in the trailer. When you’re ready to exit, take your time so your horse has the chance to be quiet and unrushed while they navigate down the ramp.
Practice makes perfect! Give yourself and your young horse plenty of time, patience, and practice with the trailer. Soon he’ll be a seasoned professional.
Disclaimer:
All content provided by Iron Spring Farm is general and for informational purposes only. Content may also not constitute the most up to date information. Nothing in this content is intended to constitute veterinarian advice or to serve as a substitute for consultation with a veterinarian. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian or other qualified provider with any questions that you may have about the treatment and care of your horse.
Any reliance that you place on the information provided is strictly at your own risk and Iron Spring Farm, its officers, employees, representatives, and agents, hereby disclaim any and all liability to any party for any direct, indirect, implied, punitive, special, incidental, consequential or other damages arising directly or indirectly from access to or use of any content provided to the maximum extent permitted by law.
