Helping horses load into a trailer with confidence is a common challenge, and I am often called upon to assist with both young horses learning to load and those struggling with trailer anxiety. Over the years, I’ve shared insights on horse trailer training, covering why it’s essential and how to approach it with the right techniques. However, this time, I want to shift the focus away from technique and explore the underlying factors that influence a horse’s willingness (or refusal) to load.

Developing guidelines for health and well-being of horses transported by air.

By Mark Andrews

At 7 a.m. on November 25, 2011, Libby Naylor, a Vancouver Island dressage trainer, and Heather Tryon were heading north from Errington, BC, trailering two horses to a Bonny Bonello clinic in Courtenay, BC. They were just ten minutes from home when disaster struck.

While there is an abundance of information available on general trailering needs, precious little has been offered on “special needs” transport for horses such as stallions, pregnant mares or those with foals at side, and injured or lame horses. There are few absolutes with horses, but here are some guidelines to keep in mind at all times.