Choosing among the options is a matter of deciding what we can afford and what is important. In this article, we'll explain why new research shows that trailering can jeopardize your horse's health, and what suggestions leading experts have made in terms of improving transport conditions to minimize the risks. Finally, we'll give you some tips for evaluating your current trailer's safety and comfort, and for shopping for an upgrade. What they didn't know was why or what it is about transport, exactly, that's to blame. Longer trips equal greater risk of infection.
Ventilation is a key design factor.
A common result is that they breathe dust from hay and bedding, vehicle exhaust, road dirt, and fumes from their own urine and feces, sometimes for hours on end, and are unable to lower their heads and necks to help expel the gunk from their airways. Unfortunately, says Allen, ensuring good ventilation isn't simply a matter of installing windows or fans. You would think it's easy to understand, but it's not. Clearly, discrepancies exist between the current standards and practices and what is the ideal. But riders and horse owners aren't likely to stop going to shows, competitions, and competitive or other trail rides any time soon, so let's take a look at what current trailer features can help keep your horse as safe and comfortable as possible on his journey.