From the instant your horse steps into a trailer to be transported, he's absolutely dependent on you, the horse owner, for his safety. As a sensible owner, this isn't something to be taken lightly. It's vital that you make every effort to keep your horse protected and healthy while traveling.

When acquiring your trailer, make sure it's sufficient for your horse. The average sized bumper pull trailer is generally 6 1/2 to 7 feet high. These trailers were intended for average size horses. Should you own a massive horse, consider a bigger trailer that could give your horse adequate room.

Next, there are a few things that can be done to make certain your existing trailer is safe. Check your floors underneath the trailer, especially when you have wood floors. Are they reliable and secure? Next, make sure there is nothing in the interior of the trailer that may poke or scrape your horse. This is particularly important to check in older, steel trailers.

Once you've determined the trailer is safe, it's time to concentrate on the health and well-being of your horse. If you are going on a long journey, you might want to provide electrolytes before the trip to help prevent dehydration. This is above all necessary if you know your horse may be a nervous traveler. It's also wise to consider wrapping your horse's legs for the long journey. This puts a stop to scrapes, nicks and other leg injuries. Lastly, bear in mind to tie your horse by using a quick release snap or knot. In case your horse gets tangled or trapped somehow, these mechanisms can be easier to release.

But, the safety doesn't stop there. Make certain your horse and trailer are safe while traveling as well. Double check to ensure your trailer is anchored securely to your truck and regularly check your mirrors for any sign of trouble. Consistently examining your horse at rest stops is usually a good idea, but by no means take your horse outside the trailer to let him eat the grass. Grass in these locations is usually treated with chemicals that may quickly poison your horse or cause serious colic. At that point, you could potentially be miles away from any kind of veterinarian or other help. For extended trips, plan in advance for risk-free stops to take your horse outside like a vet, friend's home or nearby fairgrounds.

Should you doubt the safety of your trailer or your capacity to keep your horse secure while driving, it's best to not go. Mishaps affecting horse trailers may be severe and you may hurt others including your horse. Produce a checklist before on trips to double check your safety measures and don't forget - safety first.