When it comes to trailering horses, there is a lot to consider. One of the most important considerations is whether you should feed your horse before trailering. While there is no definitive answer to this question, there are several factors that you should take into account when deciding whether or not to feed your horse before trailering.
The Pros of Feeding Before Trailering
There are several benefits to feeding your horse before trailering. One of the most important is that it can help to reduce stress and anxiety in your horse. This is because food provides horses with energy and comfort which can help them to feel calmer when they are in an unfamiliar or stressful situation. Additionally, feeding your horse before trailering can help to prevent colic, which can be caused by the stress of being in the trailer for a long period of time.
The Cons of Feeding Before Trailering
On the other hand, there are some potential drawbacks to feeding your horse before trailering. The primary concern is that your horse may become overly excited or energetic after eating, which can make it difficult to handle them during the loading and unloading process. Additionally, feeding your horse may also increase their need to urinate, which can make the trailer messy and uncomfortable.
Factors to Consider Before Feeding
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to feed your horse before trailering should be based on several factors.
- Duration of Trip: If the trip is going to be a long one, then it may be beneficial to feed your horse before trailering in order to provide them with energy and comfort.
- Horse’s Temperament: If your horse is normally very energetic or excitable, then it may be best to avoid feeding them before trailering in order to reduce their level of excitement.
- Amount of Feed: The amount of feed that you give your horse should also be taken into consideration. If you are going on a short trip, then it may be best to give your horse a small amount of feed in order to provide them with some energy and comfort without over-exciting them.
- Type of Feed: The type of feed that you give your horse should also be taken into account. Some types of feed, such as grain, can be more likely to cause your horse to become overly excited or energetic than others.
Alternatives to Feeding Before Trailering
If you decide not to feed your horse before trailering, there are several alternatives that you can use to provide them with energy and comfort.
- Hay: Providing your horse with hay or hay cubes can help to provide them with energy and comfort during the trip.
- Treats: Giving your horse treats during the trip can also help to keep them calm and provide them with a distraction.
- Grooming: Grooming your horse before trailering can help to provide them with comfort and can also be a good way to bond with them.
Tips for Loading and Unloading
Whether you decide to feed your horse before trailering or not, there are several tips that you should keep in mind when loading and unloading your horse:
- Take Your Time: Loading and unloading your horse should not be rushed. Take your time and be patient, as this will help to reduce stress and anxiety for your horse.
- Be Prepared: Make sure that you have all of the necessary supplies and equipment before you start loading and unloading. This will help to make the process go more smoothly.
- Provide Comfort: If your horse is anxious or scared, provide them with comfort by talking to them in a calming voice and stroking them.
- Stay Calm: It is important to remain calm throughout the entire process. If you become angry or frustrated, your horse will pick up on this and it may make the situation worse.
Conclusion
Overall, the decision of whether or not to feed your horse before trailering is a personal one that should be based on several factors. However, it is important to keep in mind that providing your horse with energy and comfort before trailering can help to reduce their stress and anxiety. Additionally, there are several alternatives to feeding your horse before trailering that can provide them with energy and comfort. Finally, it is important to remember to take your time when loading and unloading your horse, and to stay calm throughout the entire process.
References
- Eustace, M. (2012). Trailering Your Horse: Tips for a Safe Trip. The Horse. Retrieved from: https://www.thehorse.com/articles/9102/trailering-your-horse-tips-for-a-safe-trip
- McGee, A. (2020). Feeding Your Horse Before Trailering. Horse&Rider. Retrieved from: https://www.horseandrider.com/horse-care/feeding-your-horse-before-trailering
- Reed, C. (2017). 6 Tips for Trailering a Horse. Horse&Rider. Retrieved from: https://www.horseandrider.com/horse-care/6-tips-for-trailering-a-horse