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How to Safely Load a Problem Horse

by Terry Gatch

  • Overview

    Believe it or not, horses are just like people. They have good days and bad days, and, yes, some act a little crazy at times. If you purchased a problem horse, then he's more than likely still a problem horse. Getting a problem horse to load into a trailer can be a big problem, and a dangerous one as well. Horses allow humans to lead them around, strap a saddle around them, put a steel bit in their mouths and ride them for only one reason, they say it's "OK!" A 175-pound man stands no chance what-so-ever against a 1,200-1,300-pound horse, so if he's reluctant to move under saddle, take a bit or get in the trailer, then it will take patience and understanding on your part to pull it off. Here are a few tips that may help you get your horse into a trailer.
 

  • Step 1

    Get a helper. Never attempt to load a problem horse alone.

  • Step 2

    Make sure the horse has been led around for at least 30 minutes to ease his tension and reassure him that you are no threat. This is also to let the horse know that you are in control of him.

  • Step 3

    Lead the horse up to the rear of the trailer. Give him time to smell and inspect the trailer. A horse needs to be comfortable with the situation. You should never force a horse to do anything he does not want to do.

  • Step 4

    With lead line in hand, enter the trailer and gently pull him toward you, clearly indicating what you are asking him to do. If he stops, then let him. Reassure him that it is okay by giving soft voice commands and petting him. He may start to load, then back out. Let him do that as often as he needs. If this process goes on for over 15 minutes, then take him out, walk him around and then start again.

  • Step 5

    If progress is not made, have your helper place a rope (approximately 12 feet in length), horizontally along the rear of the horse about 18 inches below his tail. You take the other end and, as the helper holds the rope, you gently pull the rope and lead line toward you at the same time. Never be over-assertive or lose your temper.

  • Step 6

    You have one more ace up your sleeve if he fails to fully enter the trailer. Take a house-hold broom. Place the broom where you had or have the rope. Gently poke him with the bristle end of the broom. I have never seen this fail to work.

  • Step 7

    After he has loaded, remove him from the trailer and reward him hardily. You will have to repeat this process daily until he becomes comfortable that the trailer is not his enemy and he loads easily.
  • 5
  • Trailer Lead line Rope
  • Trailer
  • Lead line
  • Rope
  • A good tip for a young or problem horse is to drop the trailer in the paddock and feed the horse in the trailer daily.The taste and smell of sweet feed can be a great training tool in your favor.
  • A good tip for a young or problem horse is to drop the trailer in the paddock and feed the horse in the trailer daily.The taste and smell of sweet feed can be a great training tool in your favor.
  • As you know, any horse can very easily break your ribs, legs and neck at any time. Use extreme caution with any problem horse. If you feel in danger from a problem horse, then you must consider other options. Be realistic and weigh them carefully.
  • As you know, any horse can very easily break your ribs, legs and neck at any time. Use extreme caution with any problem horse. If you feel in danger from a problem horse, then you must consider other options. Be realistic and weigh them carefully.
     
     
 
 

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