20 Tips for Hauling Your Horses Long Distance

As we continue with our 'Tips for Hauling', you'll want to remember that these tips come from experience. All are from my first-hand knowledge and that of other horse travelers I know, hundreds of thousands of miles on the road, and good common sense.

11) Long climbs in elevation can put a strain on your engine. Check your engine gauges as you climb a long grade, especially if you are in the mountains. If you find that your engine is overheating (its important to know what your engine gauges read under normal driving conditions) pull over to the side of the road if possible, raise the hood, and let your engine cool down.

12) Keep it cool. If the engine temperature starts to rise while you are driving, you may want to turn off your air conditioning, roll down your windows, and turn on the heat. This may help keep the heat down in the engine compartment, although you and your passengers may not be very comfortable it is better than being stuck somewhere for hours until help comes.

13) Don't over use your breaks going down a long grade or mountain. Gearing down and letting your transmission slow your rig is a much more efficient and safer. Using your breaks continuously under these circumstances can heat them up making them "mushy' and possibly useless in slowing you down, placing you in a potentially dangerous situation. Remember, use your transmission to slow you down and use your breaks as little as possible. Save them for when you really need them, when you want to stop.

14) Two lane roads can be tricky to travel especially in mountainous, hilly, or curvy areas so make sure you can maneuver your rig safely. Check with the proper authorities/facility to make sure your horse trailer can safely travel the road to your destination such as: state, county, or national forest roads. Then make sure that your rig will "fit' into the campsite or get around the necessary buildings, turns, over bridges, or other obstacles in getting to your designated objective.

15) When going into an area make sure you know what is required for you and your horse before you get there. Most federal lands require that you feed certified weed free feed while you're camping or riding within their boundaries. Some national parks require that you start feeding your horse certified feed 24 or 48 hours before you ride in the park. These areas may also require that you obtain a permit before riding or camping. Knowing about these requirements before you arrive may make your visit less of a hassle. (Also make sure you know if you'll need to bring potable water and H2O for your horse.)

16) Don't unload your horses for a break. While traveling with your horses it's not necessary to unload them from their trailer and to do so could be dangerous. Unloading your horse in a strange environment can make him nervous and spooky, which could lead to an accident. There is also the possibility your horse may refuse to get back into the trailer, which could be a big pain and at least a hassle.

Traveling with your horse has its own built in rest periods. Each time you stop for fuel, food, or for any reason your horse has the opportunity to relax. Take this opportunity to offer your horse water and hay.

17) Think ahead and make sure you don't get boxed in. Watch out for roads where you may not be able to find a place to turn around or areas where you can get boxed in. Turn around before you leave your rig so you can get out whether at the restaurant parking lot, a fuel stop, or at the trail head. It's not much fun to wait around for someone to move their vehicle for you to be able to leave or to have to back up your rig down a long road or perhaps maneuver between closely parked vehicles. A little forethought can save you a big headache.

16) Park your rig in a safe and secure place. Park your trailer under a tree or in the shade of a building and make sure your horses have plenty of ventilation while you attend to your personal business during the heat of the day. If you are going into a restaurant ask to be seated near a window where you can see your trailer. If you are going into a store to shop be sure you go to a window or door often to check on the horses.

19) Check in. Whether you are day riding or on an extended stay it is advisable to check in at the facilities office. It's a good idea to let them know that you are there and to check as to what is going on in the area. Ask if there has been any cougar or bear sightings, are there chances of flash floods, or to check to make sure the trails are all open may help you with the choices you make in where you stay and ride. Horse Trail

20) Arrive at your destination before dark. Arranging your schedule so you can be at your daily destination while you have daylight to unload will help make you day's travel much more pleasant.

Most of all, always keep your safety in mind. If at any time you feel threatened, insecure, or you are just not feeling right about a situation then make a change. Whether it's wild animals, where you are parked, or where you are staying for the night. The safety and well being of yourself and others, your horses and your equipment, should be your first consideration.

Until next time - I wish you safe and happy trails - Janine

Janine is a International freelance writer and photographer, lecturer/clinician, avid trail rider, horse traveler, Long Rider and the author of WESTERN HORSEMAN'S: TRAIL RIDING: A Comprehensive Guide to Enjoying Your Horse Outdoors.