Q&A for How to Load a Frightened Horse Into a Horse Trailer

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Question

What body language tells you a horse is frightened?

Jessica Rude
Equine Expert
Jessica Rude is an Equine Expert currently working on a cutting horse ranch in Valley View, Texas as well as a horseback riding center in Princeton, Texas. Previously, she was a Trail Guide and Wrangler at a camp and retreat center In Dallas, Texas, and an Equine Breeding Barn Manager at a reining ranch in Tioga, Texas. Jessica holds a Bachelor’s degree in Animal Science with an emphasis in Equine Science from Tarleton State University. She has studied equine nutrition, reproduction, and management. Jessica specializes in equine breeding as well as instructing horseback riding lessons, leading trail rides, recognizing equine illnesses, and administering treatments.

Jessica Rude

Equine Expert

Expert Answer

When horses are frightened, their muscles tense, their eyes get very wide, their nostrils flare, and their ears will point forward in the direction of the frightening object. They become very alert and very watchful.

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Question

I have worked hard to get my horse to load. She loads now, but as soon as I tie her and get out of the trailer, she gets very scared and has broken leads and halters, and hurts herself. What can I do?

Community Answer

Maybe it would help to have another horse in the trailer as company, or some food she can eat while standing there.

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Question

What if the horse bucks?

Community Answer

Let it calm down, stay away from its hindquarters and make sure you're appearing calm and non-threatening. You could coax it into the trailer with a treat or a massage.

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What if he tries to go right through the trailer? Should the end always be closed?

Community Answer

Place something that they want in the trailer. If this doesn't work, use fencing. Whatever you do, never force a horse against their will into a trailer. Your horse can get hurt, you can get hurt and your trailer will not stay in good condition.

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