Whether for pleasure or business, owning one or more horses is something that many Americans enjoy. But like other livestock, their sheer size can make it difficult to get these animals to stables for boarding or training, or to riding trails and arenas where they are shown or ridden. Even horse owners who ride exclusively in their immediate area will still need a safe, reliable way to transport their animals safely to veterinarian, farrier, and breeding appointments. If you currently own one or more horses, or plan to do so in the future, you will need to purchase a comfortable trailer to transport them safely and these buying tips will help you make a great choice.
Safety is the first requirement
While horse trailers are now available in a wide variety of colors, styles, and features, it is important to remember that safety should always be the guiding factor. To ensure that any horse trailer you purchase will be both safe for your animal and safe for you to pull behind your vehicle, horse owners will want to consider the following points:
- will the loaded weight of the trailer fall within the safe towing capacity guidelines for the vehicle you will use to pull it?
- is the floor in good condition, with no danger of failing under the weight of the animal or animals inside while in transit?
- are there sharp corners or areas of rust that pose a potential threat to your animals?
- is there sufficient ventilation to keep your animals from becoming overheated while inside?
- is the stall space sufficient for the breed and size of animal you own?
- is there storage for any feed, tack, water, or gear required?
When considering a pre-owned trailer, it is also a good idea to have the wheel bearings, axles, brakes, and lighting systems inspected prior to completing the purchase.
Size the purchase with growth in mind
Purchasing a single stall horse trailer is rarely the best plan, even for those who currently own only one animal. Horses are somewhat of an addictive venture and many single-horse owners will go on to add more animals later. When this occurs, those who purchase a small horse trailer initially will have to begin shopping for another, larger one. In situations where you are sure that you will not purchase additional animals, the extra stall space in your trailer can be used to carry a friend's horse or store extra hay or supplies for the next trail ride.
When you are ready to begin shopping for a new or used horse trailer, take time to view several models at your local dealership. These professionals are in tune with the needs and desires of horse owners and can help you choose a safe, comfortable trailer for all your equine hauling needs.
Get in touch with a business like Lakota of Ohio to learn more.
