There are a variety of hitches and trailers on the market but when it comes to hauling livestock or horses choosing a horse trailer gooseneck style is a very smart move.
A gooseneck is the second strongest hitch on the market next to a 5th wheel hitch. It will mount in the bed of your truck and it will allow you a great deal of flexibility for hauling. It’s also a great choice for long distance hauls.
There are actually three basic types of horse trailers on the market each available with many different variations. But we’ll look at the basic configuration.
The stock trailer is open and has slatted sided. Some horses like the openness. A straight load trailer is the type you see most often. It has a manager to store your hay which can restrict the foreleg movement. It also doesn’t allow the horse to lower its head. Slant load trailers are popular because they provide a more comfortable ride. They are shorter but wider and allow for the horse to lower its head.
Horses are a big investment not only financially but emotionally! There is a lot more to trailering your horse than just managing to get it into the trailer. You want to make sure your horse is safe and comfortable. That means choosing the safest hitch – the gooseneck, as well as a nice heavy duty trailer. Then all that’s left is to find the smoothest route with the least amount of traffic.
You should also spend some time practicing towing without the horse in the trailer. Practice your starts and stops so they are smooth and you should also practice your cornering so you don’t throw your horse off balance on a corner. A great way to practice is with a cup of coffee on the dash. When you don’t spill it you are ready to tow your load.
Trailering can also be stressful to the animal so here are some tips to help:
1. Inspect your trailer before your trip to make sure everything is in working order.
2. If it is a long trip you will need to stop regularly at about four hour intervals. This is the time to give your horse a drink and remove manure from the trailer and put down some fresh hay.
3. Sawdust on the bottom of the trailer will encourage your horse to urinate.
4. Keep horse long tied while traveling.
5. If you are transporting more than one horse make sure they know each other.
A horse trailer gooseneck style is the place to start to ensure that your horse has a safe and comfortable trip and that means you can worry less and enjoy more.
