USRider® Equestrian Traveler's Companion-Spring 2023

COMPANION

What Members Are Saying About Recent Services

“My service was fast. The person that charged my battery had us on our way in no time. When I called USRider, the lady on the phone was so polite and had a man in a tow truck called right away. The person that was with me took information about USRider and is going to sign up. That’s how wonderful our experience was.”

- Ann E. Mount Angel, OR (March 23)

“The anxiety level dropped a few notches after talking with Jaime. She put everything in motion and after getting my truck to the repair shop the anxiety was gone. Jaime followed up to make sure all was good.”

- Alvin M. Mobile, AL (Feb 23)

“Impressed with USRider. Bad tire on flatbed trailer with no spare - called USRider and Specialist found a service provider within a few minutes on a Friday night that would bring a spare tire. Service provider called immediately after the initial call to USRider and arrived approx 40 min later, put a new tire on the rim and had me on the way within 15 minutes. Excellent service!”

- Liz R. Monticello, FL (Feb 23)

“Hannah was amazing! She was helpful, responsive, calm, and caring! Will recommend it to all my friends!”

- Randi A. Bloomington, IN (Feb 23)

Travel with confidence knowing USRider will get you back on the road safely and efficiently, should unexpected vehicle or trailer problems occur.

TripTips

SEASONALTIP

Be Flood Safe

TRAILERINGTIP

Practice Safe Trailering

USRider reminds horse owners that their trailers require extra space when making maneuvers, so they should use extra caution. USRider offers these additional tips for safe trailering:

• Update your lighting. Is the lighting system on your trailer adequate? Consider updating your lighting to the newer, brighter LED lights. Or consider buying a newer trailer for enhanced safety. Make sure that your brake lights and turn signals are working properly.

• Use headlights. Drive with your headlights on at all times.

• Drive carefully. During stops, lane changes, and turns, allow enough space, and signal properly. Other drivers can’t read your mind, and the consequences of an accident can be tragic and result in human or equine death in an instant.

You can’t judge the water’s depth and the road’s condition just by looking at a flooded road—and a vehicle can float in just a few inches of water.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, flooding causes about 140 deaths and $6 billion in property damage in the United States each year. Half of all fatalities during floods are auto-related—usually the result of drivers misjudging the depth of water on a road and the force of moving water. Most of these cases are preventable, but too many people continue to drive around flood barriers, according to officials with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

You can’t judge the water’s depth and the road’s condition just by looking at a flooded road—and a vehicle can float in just a few inches of water. USRider reminds you to be extra cautious on the road, especially when traveling with your horse. Follow these travel tips from NOAA:

Monitor the weather. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, download the NOAA application to your mobile device, and watch the news for vital weather-related information.

Get to higher ground. If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. If your vehicle is suddenly caught in rising water, leave it immediately, and seek higher ground.

Avoid the flooded area. Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Don’t attempt to cross flowing streams.

Avoid flooded roadways. Never drive through flooded roadways. Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. Be night aware. Be especially cautious at night when it’s harder to recognize flood dangers.

• Pull over carefully. If you need to make a stop, make sure you can pull your vehicle and trailer completely out of the traffic lane.

• Check mirrors. Be aware of your surroundings and other vehicles at all times. Make sure that your mirrors are adequate and properly adjusted.

• Make legal turns. Don’t make an illegal U-turn. Road engineers have made such turns illegal for a reason. If you miss your exit, go to the next exit. On highways and roadways, find a safe, legal place to make a U-turn.

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO

If you need to make a stop, make sure you can pull your rig completely out of the traffic lane onto the shoulder.

Get a Coggins Test

Because the Coggins test has proved so effective, equine infectious anemia (EIA) receives very little attention these days. But it’s still around, and it’s still a killer. Also known as “swamp fever,” EIA is caused by infection from a lentivirus, the same family of virus that causes acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) in people. However, people can’t get AIDS from the equine virus, nor can horses get EIA from the human virus. EIA is usually transmitted via large biting flies, which carry virus-packed blood from an infected horse to a neighboring horse.

A Coggins test is a blood test that detects antibodies to the EIA virus. When this is positive, two more specialized and more sensitive tests are done to make sure the diagnosis is correct. Since Leroy Coggins, DVM, developed the test in 1970, EIA cases have dropped dramatically. Governmental agencies have taken drastic measures with positive horses, generally requiring euthanasia, though quarantine is sometimes allowed. Every state has laws regarding mandatory Coggins testing. While the laws vary a bit from state to state, they’ll usually require testing of horses being shipped and competing in shows or races, as well as horses being sold at public auction. Any horse that tests positive will have to either be destroyed or kept quarantined for the rest of his life.

— Eleanor M. Kellon, VMD

USRIDERMEMBERTIP

Help USRider Find You

If you encounter trouble on the road and need assistance, you need to tell the USRider service provider your exact location. Often, USRider can conference you in with a service provider in the general area to determine your location. However, this takes time. USRider is proud that its average response time is well under the industry average of 60 minutes.

Help USRider find you by first being aware of where you are at all times en route to your destination. If you have a disablement, try to find a street address. Look for a street number on nearby homes or businesses, or on street signs. If possible, ask someone for help.

If you encounter trouble on the road and need assistance, you need to tell the USRider service provider your exact location.

Also, use a GPS unit when traveling in unfamiliar territory. Most GPS units have a “locate” feature that provide latitude and longitude measurements. USRider can use this information to pinpoint your location and send assistance.

PHOTO BY CLIXPHOTO.COM

It’s important to get a Coggins test for your traveling horse, as movement of infected horses to new areas is how EIA can travel long distances.

Accident Response

Follow these emergency response guidelines in the event of a trailering accident. Shown is an actual trailer wreck in North Carolina.

Your trailer doesn’t have to come loose or to turn over to have a large animal rescue emergency with your horse. A high percentage of serious injuries are incurred during more minor trailer incidents. Here, I’ll give you supplies to keep in your tow vehicle in case of emergency, and the critical steps to take in an accident’s aftermath.

Emergency Supplies

■ Visibility gear. Keep handy 8 to 10 emergency flares, 6 to 8 triangles or cones, and reflective vests. Place at least three flares, triangles, or cones to get the attention of the other drivers and prevent further tragedy. Also pack a reflective vest for everyone in your tow vehicle. Don a reflective vest anytime you step out of your vehicle onto the road.

■ First-aid kits. Pack a first-aid kit for horses and humans. (For what to include in your equine first-aid kit, see the Handy Checklist in this issue.) Become certified in CPR so you’ll know how to respond to certain human emergencies.

Top: Don a reflective vest anytime you step out of your vehicle on the road, for visibility. Inset: Cones, flares and reflective triangles are designed to get the attention of other drivers so they won’t accidentally hit your stopped rig.

■ Fire extinguishers. An in-trailer fire extinguisher should be at least a 5-pound model; a 10-pound model is better, if you have space. Look for an ABC-rated extinguisher (Class A for trash, wood, and paper; Class B for liquids and gases; and Class C for

PHOTOS BY REBECCA GIMENEZ HUSTED

PHOTO BY REBECCA GIMENEZ

If you’re in a trailer accident, the right response can save your horse’s life.

energized electrical sources). Keep another extinguisher in your tow vehicle to put out any wheel or under-hood fires.

■ Extra halters and lead ropes. Keep handy one halter and lead rope per horse, and hang them neatly in your trailer for emergency use.

■ Towel/blanket. Use this to cover the head of a downed horse to help keep him calm until help arrives, if you can do so safely.

■ Hay. Lay in an emergency supply of good-quality hay to allow trapped or extricated horses to eat and relax while you wait for assistance.

■ Hitch lock. Apply a hitch lock to help prevent theft if you have to leave your disabled rig roadside.

■ Flashlights. In an emergency situation, a reliable light source can be lifesaving. Choose flashlights large enough to light your trailer’s interior. Don’t rely on your cellphone flashlight.

■ Knife. Keep a sharp, good-quality knife on your person at all times when traveling with your horse so you can cut him free should he become entangled in a rope.

Accident Response

During trailering, horses can get their heads and legs ensnared in windows, between tires, under the trailer wall, or in their own tie ropes. They get their bodies trapped over the breast or butt bar, or end up upside down on the floor, hanging by their halters.

Most horses survive trailer wrecks amazingly well if they stay inside the trailer and avoid being ejected. They tend to injure themselves attempting to stand up,

which is why I recommend using a breakaway tie strap and/or halter.

If you are in a trailering accident, follow these potentially life-saving steps.

Proceed with caution. Only enter your trailer to help your horse if your trailer is upright, intact, and safe, and your horse is calm. Extinguish any fires if you can do so safely

Stay clear. In serious accidents, stay clear of your trailer. In large animal emergency rescue training, I emphasize to emergency responders that no untrained person should be allowed inside a horse trailer for any reason, especially one flipped on its side or roof with terrified, injured animals inside. This includes owners, bystanders, and veterinarians who may wish to go into that confined space to save the horses. For the safety of all, wait for trained emergency responders, such as firefighters, to arrive at the scene. They’ll perform an external rescue using tools to extricate the animals.

Perform basic response techniques. Your job is to remain calm, call 9-1-1 and then USRider for help, increase your rig’s visibility, and assess the situation. By performing these basic response techniques, you can be extremely useful during an emergency and can actually learn to save your own horse.

Pay attention to your own safety. On the side of the road, responders will be more worried about your safety than that of your horse—and for good reason. This is a very dangerous situation to be in as traffic rushes by.

—

In a serious accident, for the safety of all, wait for trained emergency responders to arrive at the scene.

If you are in a trailer accident, your job is to remain calm, call 9-1-1 and then USRider for help, increase your rig’s visibility, and assess the situation.

Rebecca Gimenez Husted, Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue

An in-trailer fire extinguisher should be at least a 5-pound model; a 10-pound model is better, if you have space.

PHOTO BY REBECCA GIMENEZ HUSTED

PHOTO COURTESY OF EASTERN KENTUCKY UNIVERSITY

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO

Prevent Trailer Theft

Use these

four expert ways to thwart trailer thieves.

By Audrey Pavia

Every year, horse trailers are stolen from trailheads, parking lots, driveways, storage facilities, and other locations. Thieves strike everything from two-horse bumper pulls to six-horse goosenecks with living quarters. They simply unhitch the trailer and attach it to their own tow vehicle. Here, we’ll give you four ways to deter trailer theft.

1. Personalize your trailer. Trailers that are easy to identify are less appealing to thieves than plain ones, because they’re easy to spot on the road. Make your trailer visually standout from the crowd. Thieves might have a second thought about taking a trailer that easily identifiable. Paint your farm or ranch name/brand/logo, your horse’s name, a rustic scene, etc., on the side of the trailer Or, paint your trailer a unique color. You can also apply large, elaborate decals, reflective stripes, signs, and murals.

2. Invest in security devices.

• Hitch locks. These work by making it impossible for a thief to attach his or her vehicle to your trailer. The lock fits into your hitch and is secured with the turn of a key. The downside to these locks is that you have to unhitch your trailer from your tow vehicle to put the lock in place. You also have to make sure you don’t lose the key.

To make your trailer less attractive to thieves, paint it a unique color or apply large, elaborate decals, reflective stripes, signs, and murals. Shown are decals available from Cautions Horses Safety Products®.

• Tongue locks. These allow you to include the trailer chains when securing the hitch. In some situations, thieves have literally dragged the trailer away by the chains if they couldn’t use the hitch.

• Coupler locks. You can usually use these while your trailer is still hitched to your vehicle, depending on the design. They prevent the thief from being able to hook up to the coupler.

• Trailer-wheel locks. When you attach these devices on the outside of the tires, thieves find it nearly impossible to move the trailer.

• Alarms. Trailer alarms are similar to car alarms. Sensors attached to the trailer doors will sound if the door is opened. Some alarms are equipped with sensors

Every year, horse trailers are stolen from trailheads, parking lots, driveways, storage facilities, and other locations. (Photo does not depict a stolen horse trailer.)

PHOTO COURTESY OF CAUTION HORSES SAFETY PRODUCTS

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO

that are designed to go off if someone tries to move the trailer or tamper with the locks.

• Tracking devices. Although tracking devices don’t necessarily deter theft, they’ll make it easier to find your trailer if it’s stolen. Tracking devices use global positioning system (GPS) technology to tell you where your trailer is located. In most cases, you’ll need to subscribe to a tracking service, which will allow you to locate your trailer online.

3. Insure your trailer. Add your trailer to your auto policy; if your auto policy doesn’t offer trailer insurance, find a company that specializes in such policies. in such policies. If you have homeowner’s or renter’s insurance, your policy should cover your trailer’s contents. (Verify

this coverage with your insurance agent.) Keep careful records, including photos, of all the items you keep inside your trailer.

4. Document your trailer. If your trailer is stolen, keeping the right documentation and records in your files will help law-enforcement officials track it down. Take photos of your trailer from all sides, for the police and for stolen-trailer flyers. Record a complete description of your trailer’s model number, along with details on the type of windows, ramp, and interior. Keep your trailer’s vehicle identification number (VIN) and registration card with you when you’re not in your tow vehicle. Also, keep with you photos and descriptions of the items inside your trailer so you can report these items as stolen.

If Your Trailer Is Stolen

• Call the police. If you have a cellphone with you and can get service, call 9-1-1. The police dispatcher will take down your information and immediately notify law enforcement of your missing trailer. An officer will likely come to you to fill out a police report or will instruct you to come to the police station once your horse is cared for.

• Call your insurance company. Police-report number in hand, contact your auto or trailer insurance company. Give the representative your trailer’s VIN, and provide a complete description of your trailer.

• Distribute flyers. Use your trailer photos to run with online notices. Distribute print flyers at local tack/feed stores and boarding stables.

Audrey Pavia, a freelance writer based in Norco, California, is a competitive trail rider and member of the North American Trail Ride Conference. She’s the author of Trail Riding: A Complete Guide and Horse Lover’s Daily.

Thieves strike everything from two-horse bumper pulls to six-horse goosenecks with living quarters.

In your documentation, include photos and descriptions of the items inside your trailer, especially if you have valuable show tack and gear, so you can report these items as stolen.

PHOTO BY CLIXPHOTO.COM

PHOTO BY CLIXPHOTO.COM

Ground-Work Exercises

Hone your horse’s ground manners with these tips from top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight.

By Heidi Melocco with Julie Goodnight ~ Photos by Heidi Melocco

The more your horse respects you on the ground, the more apt he’ll be to listen to your trailer-loading and -unloading cues. Your horse might especially need a refresher in the spring after being used less frequently during the winter months.

Here, top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight will give you three ground-work exercises to keep

your horse looking to you as his herd leader: (1) Practice body awareness; (2) teach the standstill; and (3) teach leading manners.

Before You Begin

You can do ground work in a small space—a round pen, in your barnyard, or even inside the barn when the weather turns. You need only a small, fairly level area with good footing.

Outfit your horse in a rope halter and a long training lead with a rope-to-rope connection at the halter. A rope halter better translates your cues than a flat nylon halter does.

Exercise 1: Practice Body Awareness

This body-awareness exercise helps your horse tune in to your body/sign language, and begin to

Read on as top trainer/clinician Julie Goodnight gives you three ground-work exercises to practice to help keep your traveling horse sharp and focused on you as his herd leader:

have more deference for your leadership—and your personal space.

A horse’s spatial awareness is acute—he has a greater appreciation for body/sign language than humans do. It’s your job to mind your position and body language and make sure that you’re aware of your posture and consistent cues.

Step 1. Define your personal space. Every time you’re near your horse, stretch your arms out around you in all directions. That’s your space— space your horse shouldn’t enter without permission.

Free yourself of the need to be in your horse’s space all the time. That’s satisfying for you, but not helpful for your relationship with him. If you enter your horse’s space all the time—kissing and hugging—your horse won’t have a clear idea about your personal boundaries.

While you sometimes want to love on your horse, start with a clear boundary. Only allow that closeness after you have set up a clear expectation of his space and yours.

Step 2. Practice your body language. Practice submissive and more aggressive postures in front of a mirror. If your shoulders are rounded, your toes are pointed away, and your eyes are diverted, you’ll appear unthreatening to your horse. If your shoulders are up, your chest is puffed, your chin is high, and you look straight at your horse, he’ll take that as an aggressive or admonishing posture.

Match your body language to the situation; always be aware of when and how you’re moving. Adopt less threatening body language if you want to give your horse a break and not be reactive to your every move (or help him know you’re not an aggressor when you’re trying to catch

him). Appear active and confident when you get ready to move with your horse.

Exercise 2: Teach the Standstill

Your horse should stand still for mounting and dismounting. The standstill is also the basis for learning to ground-tie.

Learning to stand still also reminds your horse to focus on you and get in the habit of reacting to your cues, rather than looking for something else to focus on—and possibly spook at. Your horse needs to look at you and think before making a move. Add the command “whoa,” and you’ll teach your horse to stop and focus on you.

Note: If your horse has been confined, start with another exercise that allows him move around. If he’s turned out all day, this is a great place to start.

Step 1. Place your horse. Ask your horse to stand still like a statue and not move a hoof without your permission. Place him where you’d like him to stand, then turn, and face him. Avoid standing too close. You don’t want to hold him still; you want him to know that he must listen and choose to stand still.

Step 2. Move away. Stand about six feet away, and point your toes toward his left shoulder. Make sure you’re not standing directly in front of him, but just off to the left side of his body.

Step 3. Correct him. If your horse moves a hoof or turns his head so that his nose passes his shoulders, issue an immediate correction by sending a wave through the lead rope so that it puts pressure on the rope halter. Use the amount of pressure needed to get his attention. Some horses need only a small movement >>

1: The standstill cue teaches your horse to stay put when you turn and face him. 2: If your horse takes a step as you teach the standstill, correct him by wiggling the lead rope. 3: When your horse is standing still consistently, lengthen the lead rope, and step farther away. 4: When your horse learns to stand still with the lead rope on the ground, try taking a few steps away to testing his new ground-tie skill. If he moves a step, pick up the lead and correct him. >>

of the rope to remind him to listen; others need more pressure.

Your horse will quickly learn that every time he moves a foot without your authorization, he’ll get in trouble. He should learn this lesson quickly, in the very first session, if your timing and corrections are effective.

Step 4. Heighten the challenge. When your horse obeys, heighten the

challenge. Step farther and farther away. Eventually, lay the middle of the rope on the ground while you hold the end. Even if you only ask him to stand for 30 seconds, you’ll strengthen your relationship as your horse looks to you to know what to do and how to act.

Step 5. Teach the ground-tie. When your horse is listening well, lay down the rope, and teach him to stand still with the rope on the ground. Work up to 10 to 15 minutes of practice per day, and you’ll have a horse who can successfully ground-tie before long. Step 6. Increase the challenge further. Ask your horse to stand still when he’s antsy, such as before it’s time for turnout or when other horses are moving into the barn to eat. He needs to listen to you no matter what the horse herd is doing around him. When he knows the lesson, it won’t matter how much energy he has— he’ll stand still when asked.

Exercise 3: Teach Leading Manners

Leading manners are part of your horse’s basic trailer-loading skills. With this exercise, sequence your cues, so that you always do the same thing in the same order, step-by-step: Look up, lean your shoulders forward; move your feet; and pull on the lead, if necessary.

When you sequence your aids, your horse will quickly learn and respond. You’ll carry the leadership role that you’ll develop into your spring riding.

Here’s how to apply this sequencing to teaching your horse how to maintain a respectful position as you lead him.

Step 1. Gain his focus. You’ll first need to teach your horse to focus on your movements and maintain a position on your side, regardless

of your speed and direction. He’ll need to learn to stay in the correct position and within the acceptable boundaries. He shouldn’t move into your space or ahead of you. To gain his focus, move deliberately, and be consistent with your body language.

Step 2. Walk on. To initiate the walk, lean your shoulders forward; this tells your horse you’re about to move. Then move your feet, and say “Walk on!” or cluck to him. Give him these cues before you pull on the lead.

Step 3. Apply lead-rope pressure. If your horse doesn’t walk when you give him the above cues, reinforce them with lead-rope pressure. Lean your body weight into the rope, if necessary.

Step 4. Release lead-rope pressure. As soon as your horse takes one step forward, release the lead-rope pressure, and continue walking. Hold the lead loosely so that he learns to follow your body language without expecting a pull. You want to teach him to move with you, not depend on constant lead-rope pressure.

Step 5. Correct him, if necessary. As you walk your horse, don’t let his nose move past your lead hand, and definitely don’t let his shoulder move past yours. If he crosses the boundary, snap back hard on the lead rope, turn around and face him, stomp your feet, flap your arms, and back him up while admonishing him with your voice.

Use the amount of pressure that causes your horse to think: What did I do wrong? What can I do so that doesn’t happen again?

Some horses may only need you to turn and look at them sternly; other horses may need more pressure. If your horse falls into the latter category, stop, turn, and back him up a few steps with authority.

If you use enough lead-rope pres-

1: Leading manners are paramount on the trail. As you teach your horse to lead, ask him to stay at your side, not ahead of or behind you. 2: Turn your horse away from you so he learns not to enter your space without an invitation. 3: Your horse should willingly trot beside you with slack in the line and while moving at your pace. >>

sure and good timing, your horse will very quickly learn the precise place he should be. Soon, he’ll learn that the moment you lean forward, he better be ready to move.

Tip: If you find yourself constantly pulling or initiating a correction multiple times, check to make sure your corrections are consistent. Slightly escalate the pressure, and add a verbal admonishment.

Step 6. Don’t hold him back. Don’t pull back on the lead rope to hold your horse back. If you pull on the lead all the time, he’ll forever rely on that pressure to tell him where to be. Instead, give him the responsibility to keep himself in the proper place, using the correction outlined in Step 4.

Step 7. Regulate his speed. If your horse lags behind your walking pace, change your body language. When you move your shoulders forward then move your feet, your horse should step with you. If you have to also pull on the lead rope, bring your arms in close to your body and lean forward hard on the rope.

If you lean forward quickly as a correction, not as a constant pull, you’ll teach your horse to pay attention to the body language that came first instead of waiting for the pull.

Tip: Avoid turning and swatting your horse with the end of the lead rope to propel him forward. This action can confuse him, because you’re actually turning around and changing your direction. Simply continue the correction outlined in Step 4. Step 8. Change direction. At the

walk, ask for a change of direction. To turn, simply walk toward the direction you want to go. Be sure to move your horse away from you and out of your space; don’t pull him toward you. If your horse doesn’t move, pick up your hands, stomp your feet and defend your space by waving your hands just behind your horse’s eye without touching him.

Step 9. Ask for the trot. To pick up the trot, lean your shoulders forward, then start trotting while saying “Trot!” If he starts to trot, praise him. Then go back down to the walk, and ask for the trot again. Just trot straight lines; don’t trot around turns.

Step 10. Change it up. Escalate the challenge by changing speeds, turning, then turning at different speeds and degrees. Soon, you’ll be able to walk in all directions with little to no pressure on the lead rope and only with your body language.

Step 11. Use just a neck rope. If your horse leads well with the halter and lead rope, try working with him in a safe, enclosed area with just a neck rope. With this gear, you can test your horse’s obedience while maintaining a way to correct him, if needed.

1: If your horse is responding well to your body cues, switch to a neck rope. Cue him to walk on by bending your upper body forward and giving him a voice command, rather than pulling on the rope.

2: To cue your horse to stop, lean your shoulders back; avoid pulling on the lead or neck rope.

3: Praise the horse for his willingness to tune into your body cues.

Heidi Melocco is a riding instructor, photographer, and writer based in Mead, Colorado.

Julie Goodnight trains horses and coaches horse owners to be ready for any event, on the trail or in the performance arena. After producing the

popular RFD-TV series, Horse Master with Julie Goodnight, for 11 years, Goodnight now shares the world of horses through 2Horse Productions, and through appearances at clinics and horse expos throughout the United States. She also hosts her monthly horse training podcast, Ride On with Julie Goodnight.

“If you find yourself constantly pulling or initiating a correction multiple times, check to make sure your corrections are consistent.”

Rehab Your Rescue Horse

Provide your rescue horse with turnout time to socialize, graze, and exercise.

Learn how to successfully rehabilitate a rescue horse with these guidelines.

By Cate Lamm

Photos by Roxanne Capaul

Have you rescue an unwanted horse—or are you planning to? Excellent! Keep in mind that your rescue horse might have had a checkered past (some rescue horses have even been neglected and/or abused), so plan on giving him plenty of time to rehabilitate.

Rehabilitation means to restore to a condition of health and constructive activity. Constructive activity will depend on your horse’s physical ability and your chosen equine pursuit.

When you bring your new rescue horse home, follow these four steps:

(1) provide quality health care; (2) consider chiropractic care; (3) provide regular turnout; and (4) gain his trust. Here’s a rundown of each step.

Step 1. Provide Quality Health Care

Your rescue horse may have gone through a period in his life without proper veterinary and farrier care. Reestablishing regular care is an essential part of the rehabilitation process. Here’s how. Make a veterinary appointment. As soon as you get your horse home, have your regular veterinarian perform a thorough examination of your horse. Even if you’ve gotten a prepurchase exam before you bought your horse, it’s important that your horse be seen by your regular vet.

This appointment will give your vet a chance to get to know your horse in a nonemergency setting, and give you referrals to other heath-care professionals, as needed. Plus, you’ll be able to start your horse on optimal vaccination, deworming, and nutritional programs.

Provide a proper diet. Your rescue horse may have suffered from a lack of proper nutrition and may have even experienced starvation, so providing him with a well-balanced diet is an essential step in rehabilitation.

Juliet Getty, PhD, an internation-

ally recognized equine nutritionist, recommends taking a week or two to switch to a new type of hay, and two to three weeks to switch to new grain.

Dr. Getty also recommends giving your horse a prebiotic (a supplement that promotes growth of intestinal microorganisms) during the transition time. She also suggests giving him a nutritionally balanced feed.

All most horses require is quality free-choice forage, a nutritional supplement that fills in the gaps, a source of omega 3 fatty acids, salt, and water.”

Ask your veterinarian to help you formulate a diet that’s right for your horse.

Provide quality dental care. Quality care of your horse’s teeth is essential for your horse’s health and comfort. Healthy teeth and gums will also be able to comfortably hold a bit, should you wish to use one.

To find a qualified equine dentist, first ask your veterinarian about his or her investment in developing expertise and buying the necessary equipment. If your vet hasn’t focused on equine dentistry, ask for a referral.

According to Dr. Getty, whose philosophy is founded on feeding your horse according to his natural instincts and needs, “Free-choice forage is the foundation of health, and the lack of this can cause laminitis, diarrhea, colic ulcers, behavioral issues, allergies, immune system issues, and a host of other problems.

Use a qualified equine veterinary dentist. Only a qualified equine veterinary dentist will be able to sedate your horse or perform invasive procedures, such as extractions, if needed. To find a quality equine dentist in your area, contact the International Association of Equine Dentistry. Provide quality hoof care. A good farrier is one of the most important things you can provide your rescue horse.

“Qualified hoof care helps a horse remain suited to his environment and his job,” says Andrew Wells, a Certified Journeyman Farrier with >>

Start rehabilitating your rescue horse as soon as he steps off the trailer, through bonding, turnout, and the right nutrition.

the American Farriers Association, and a farrier for the Colorado Horse Rescue.

“A professional farrier can evaluate a horse based on how they bear their weight and their conformation, then shape the hoof to best accommodate the horse and his job.”

Wells notes that on average, it takes about 18 weeks (three farrier visits) to begin repairing a neglected hoof in a shod horse. If your horse is barefoot, this process can take up to six months. Here’s why: If your horse is shod, your farrier can take off more hoof per visit, as his shoes will protect his tender hooves, thus more rapidly change hoof shape.

Step 2. Consider Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care, considered a complementary treatment to traditional veterinary medicine, can be a valuable tool in the rehabilitation of your rescue horse.

As a rehabilitation trainer for the Colorado Horse Rescue, I’ve seen many horses stop an undesirable behavior (such as object to the girth/cinch or resist taking a lead) after being adjusted by an equine chiropractic professional. A chiropractic adjustment is the manipulation of the spine to help restore joint mobility.

“If the horse is in pain and out of alignment, he won’t be happy having anyone riding him,” notes Deb Schlutz, DVM, owner of Windward Veterinary Chiropractics & Acupuncture and the chiropractor on call for the Colorado Horse Rescue.

“Such a horse may not want other

horses around him, because he’s afraid he’ll be bumped. Sometimes, it hurts even to have a brush run over his back.”

Dr. Schlutz has also observed the relationship between behavior and pain alleviation through chiropractic treatments. “Many behavioral problems often go away with chiropractic

horse is comfortable before you begin training him, and so that he won’t associate his pain with you and your training practices.

Step 3. Provide Regular Turnout

Provide your rescue horse with turnout time to socialize, graze, and exercise. Your rescue horse may have been confined for long periods of time. As a herd animal whose natural habitat is in wide-open spaces, this confinement would’ve been hard on him.

“Horses are naturally claustrophobic, so from a behavioral standpoint, confinement can be very detrimental,” says Dr. Getty. “Horses are very social animals, and they need the protection of at least one other herdmate for protection from threats, whether real or perceived.

work, getting everything back into alignment,” she says. “Releasing the muscles and improving the inflammation allow the horse to return to work.”

Spookiness on the trail may also be remedied with chiropractic treatments. “I’ve seen painful horses be spooky horses,” says Dr. Schlutz. “After an adjustment, they can relax and go on trail rides without being afraid and nervous. It can make a huge difference.”

Get a chiropractic evaluation before you start training your horse, advises Dr. Schlutz, to make sure your

“I have seen horses that will not lie down to sleep when they are in a stall, because of the discomfort of not having another horse nearby. If you look out in the field and see one horse that’s completely prone, there’s another horse standing next to him.”

Confined horses can develop behavioral problems, such as weaving, pawing, kicking, and chewing, Dr. Getty points out. “They can also become behaviorally difficult and be dangerous animals, because they are stressed.”

Turnout is also good for your rescue horse’s physical health, says Dr. Getty. “A horse’s digestive tract is made of muscle, and to keep those muscles healthy, they need to be worked by the forage that flows

As you take steps to rehabilitate your rescue horse’s physical health, also work on creating a relationship built on trust.

through your pastured horse. This not only helps to keep him from getting flabby, it also improves muscle circulation and blood flow.”

Step 4. Gain His Trust

As you take steps to rehabilitate your rescue horse’s physical health, also work on creating a relationship built on trust. I’ve found that fear and distrust of humans is common in rescue horses, likely stemming from previous neglect, mistreatment, and even abuse.

ence post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Horses with PTSD will need ‘breakthroughs’ to help them see us, tune in, and try to connect.”

Not all rescue horses suffer PTSD. “Sometimes, your rescued horse just needs companionship and routine to help him feel safe, open up, and trust again,” says Beste.

“Helping your horse feel emotionally safe and comfortable is about bringing balance and well-being. You can show him balance through love and leadership. This means you need to be compassionate and clear when you interact with him, establishing a sense of structure, routine, and discipline.”

As a member of a socially intelligent species, your horse understands the need for structure, and organized society, community, and companionship, Beste points out.

“When all of these areas are working, your horse will feel internal balance, a sense of well-being, purpose, connection to others, and, most of all, safe.”

they need to defend themselves.

“Horses become aggressive in self-defense, especially when they feel trapped,” note the Parellis. “The key is not to trap or challenge a horse and drive him to that point. A horse

As you build up trust with your rescue horse and start to train him, pay close attention to those very soft, subtle tries he’s offering.

Gaining an abused horse’s trust is challenging, yet rewarding. It’s also very time-consuming. “When horses have endured a very traumatic experience and are exposed to chronic stress, their normal feedback system—healthy release of adrenaline, chemicals—breaks down, just like ours does,” says Caroline Beste, a well-known trainer and clinician, and founder of the Tao of Horsemanship.

“And, like us, they begin to experi-

Renowned clinicians Pat and Linda Parelli use play to gain a horse’s trust. “Horses are prey animals, so they instinctively fear humans, because we are a predator species,” say the Parellis. “So the whole time we’re dealing with a fearful horse, we truly need to understand how deathly afraid they are in our presence. Until we can do this, we will never really solve the problem.”

Sometimes, a fearful horse will move to defensive behavior, which is sometimes mislabeled as “aggressive” or “mean” behavior.

In all my years of working with rescue horses, I’ve never encountered a “mean” horse. Horses that display defensive behavior—such as biting, kicking, and/or striking—are simply afraid they’re going to be hurt, so feel

can only fight against pressure, so don’t give him anything to fight against! Fight anger with kindness.

“Rather than try to dominate a horse, establish a relationship based on communication, understanding, and good leadership.”

As you build up trust with your rescue horse and start to train him, pay close attention to those very soft, subtle tries he’s offering. It’s essential to witness those small tries, because those must be rewarded by softening the pressure and much praise. This is what creates lightness and builds trust.

Take your time, and have fun on the journey of rehabilitating your rescue horse.

Cate Lamm, an avid horsewoman, worked with Colorado Horse Rescue for 10 years. There, she served as head of the adoption committee, has acted as general manager, and as a rehabilitation trainer. Lamm has owned a number of her own rescue horses and has 25 years of equine experience.

“Rather than try to dominate a horse, establish a relationship based on communication, understanding, and good leadership.”

Springtime in New York

The Otter Creek Horse Trails in Adirondack Park are a trail rider’s dream.

Article

and Photos by Shawn Hamilton

When the snow melts here in Ontario, Canada, and the bright colors of spring begin to paint the landscape, all I can think of is hitting the trails. For me, spring means getting my horse back in shape for the long rides ahead.

I especially prepare for my annual spring-camping week at the Otter Creek Horse Trails, just a half-day’s drive away in Glenfield, New York, 48 miles north of Utica. This system is comprised of 65 miles of interlocking horse trails located on both the Independence River Wild Forest Unit of the Adirondack Forest Preserve, and the Independence River and Otter Creek State Forests on the western border of the Adirondack Park in Lewis County, New York.

Careful Preparation

Seemingly small preparations can make or break my spring getaway. First, I thoroughly clean my trailer. This year, the electric brakes were malfunctioning. Thankfully, the problem was simply dirty buildup that corroded the connection. I fixed the problem inexpensively with a new plug.

Getting the kinks out of my trusty steed is next on the list. I’d just purchased an Appaloosa gelding, Bailey. To prep him for our trip, I took him on 20-minute trailer rides to Ontario’s Ganaraska Forest, riding with a different group of horses each time.

Even though Bailey is one of the quietest trail horses I’ve ever owned, I felt more at ease getting him used to trail riding near home.

Bailey’s previous owner had warned me of his fear of water, but with the help of the older, more experienced horses to guide us through streams and horse-eating puddles, it didn’t take long before we were tromping through water without the snorts of fear and side-stepping up the banks. This proved to be a very helpful for what was in store for us in Otter Creek.

An appointment with the veterinarian and Ministry of Agriculture was a must; a current health certificate and Coggins certificate (showing that your horse tested negative for equine infectious anemia) are necessary when entering the U.S. from Canada.

Soon, the day to leave was upon us and the trailer-packing was to commence. The Assembly Area at Otter Creek features small, covered tie stalls that house up to a hundred horses. The wide stalls are open in the back; bumper bars help contain the horses.

I’ve learned to cut waste and keep things neat by hanging the hay nets, and feed and water buckets. So begins the list: feed and water buckets; hang-ties; everyday tack; extra tack; extra lead ropes; halters; girths; reins, etc.

Of course, I also bring food, firstaid equipment, and fly spray. Then I throw in lots of fly wipes to use on rides when my horse sweats off the

spray applied earlier.

As I’m not lucky enough to have a living-quarters trailer, a tent and cooking facilities round out my list.

Getting There

The humid weather on shipping day made the five-hour drive a hot and sweaty one for the horses. It helped to have familiar water from home easily accessible for our brief-but-frequent breaks.

Laurel, one of our convoy companions, put a layer of shavings soaked in cold water on the trailer floor just before loading her gelding, Stormy, and her traveling companion Laurie’s mare, Dee. The moisture seemed to keep the horses’ temperatures down, and the two appeared quite comfortable.

Arriving at the Canadian/United States border at noon, the hottest part of the day, was poor planning on our part. The border veterinarian favored the large truckloads of cattle that never get to drink when hauled. We waited in the parking a lot for almost an hour, keeping our horses happy with treats and water.

A few hours later, we arrived at the

Otter Creek Assembly Area. There are three parking areas with campsites from which to choose. Each site offers a picnic table, a fire pit, and ample parking spots for your rig. You can camp as near as 20 feet from your horse, if you wish.

The public washrooms are clean—with flush toilets! As we unloaded our sweaty horses, I decided that next time, I’d leave earlier for a cooler journey.

Settling In

First, we gave our horses a nice stretch and walked around the parking area. We were greeted by several of our trail buddies from home who’d arrived the day before. Complaints about the heat and bugs were abundant, but everyone had enjoyed their rides that day.

After settling the horses in their stalls, my traveling companion, Cinette, helped me set up the tent on a sandy patch close to the horses. Then I was ready for a swim! We headed down to the lake for a quick dip. Clean

and cool, we started cooking dinner. As I sifted through the cookware, I realized that a test run at home with the camp cooking box would’ve saved the disappointment of a missing cast-iron frying pan. No worries; precooked, frozen spaghetti sauce was a breeze to boil up.

During my younger days of ice climbing and camping in the wintertime, I discovered that precooking sauces and stews, then freezing them in zip-close bags, saves time, fuel, and water when preparing meals.

With our bellies full and the sounds of the horses munching away on their hay, we eased into our chairs by the fire and took in the calmness of the night. As the sky started to light up with stars, we planned our first day on the trails. As it was early in the year, our horses weren’t as fit as they’d be in the fall. Therefore, a three- to four-hour loop with a bridge-crossing and lunch stop seemed ample for Day 1.

A Relaxing Ride

The next morning, I awoke to the smells of the forest as the sun began to peek through the branches of the towering trees. I could see my breath as I started a fire and put on the coffee. The camp percolator was at full gurgle when everyone began to stir.

After breakfast, we tacked up and headed off in the early, cool part of the day. The bugs were tolerable. The sandy footing was excellent for our horses. We took in the colors of spring and the harmonious sounds of the birds.

Feeling my horse relax underneath me, I remembered why we return here every year. It was just the four of us today: Laurel and Cinette with their trusty Morgans, Stormy and Blaze; Laurie with her Quarter Horse, Dee; and me with my new guy, Bailey.

My doubts about the bridge crossing ahead were quickly relieved when our trail leader proudly paraded across with my Bailey boy close behind. >>

We untacked the horses and tied them to the hitching posts conveniently located at each picturesque vista along the trails. We picnicked to the sound of the rushing creek beside us and chatted with passers-by.

We took the horses to the creek for a drink before tacking up again. I hopped on Bailey bareback and was happy to get him into the water up to his belly. On our relaxing ride home, we cantered in the wonderful loamy parts of the trail.

Storm!

Day 2 was a whole different scenario. We rose early, as we’d planned a long day. We’d hit the highlands, stop at Upper Chase Lake for lunch, then make the descent home in the afternoon.

Soon after we headed off, I noticed the sky darkening around us. After an hour in the saddle, my arthritic joints told me it was about to rain. I could sense something was in the air. The sky was ominous; the fresh breeze had suddenly stopped dead. Our horses became agitated. Without too much hesitation, we made a collective decision to turn back for home.

The minute we arrived back at camp and dismounted, rain began to fall. We quickly covered and put away our belongings, then sat under a tarp in fear of what was to come.

The sky darkened to black, the rain strengthened, and the wind blew so hard, the trees swayed above us. Hearing the crash of a falling tree nearby, we headed for the truck, worrying about those who still might be on the trails.

After the first storm, the park ranger advised us to find cover in a vehicle or camper, as more severe storms were on their way. We headed for our friends’ three-horse trailer with living quarters.

By early evening, the weather had calmed. We ate dinner in a covered picnic area, then warmed ourselves by the fire. Storm tales were endless. Even though no one was hurt, I decided that next time I’d bring a small, battery-operated radio to check the weather each day before heading out on the trails.

A Sloshy Finish

The next morning greeted us with clear blue skies. We decided to take the trail to Catspaw Lake and enjoy our last full day. Wild turkeys flew out from underneath us; I was so proud of Bailey when he didn’t flinch. Birds chattered, and the breeze was just strong and cool enough to keep the bugs away. Catspaw Lake revealed wonderful reflections.

The trail showed signs of the previous day’s storm. Trees had blocked the path, forcing us to bushwhack them out of the way.

Completely relaxed and a bit sad knowing that this was our last day, I hardly noticed the ground getting squishy. Bailey snorted, and I knew instantly water was ahead. What we thought was a small creek turned out to be a river that completely flooded the trail.

We consulted the map and decided that if we wanted to get back before nightfall, crossing the river would be our best option. We put Laurie and Dee in the lead. I lifted my feet onto the front of the saddle, and urged Bailey on with my voice. Dee expertly led the way.

The next thing I knew, I was holding onto Bailey’s mane and we were

literally swimming across to reach the other side. We laughed in surprise and shock as our horses finally made their way to dry ground. I couldn’t wait to tell Bailey’s former owner what the Appy had accomplished on his first trip away.

That night, as I crawled into my sleeping bag, tired from the day’s adventures, I knew we’d never forget this trip. I also reached a decision. Although I love my tent and two-horse bumper pull, I resolved to search for a new trailer with small living quarters. A shower, a toilet, and a place to hide from falling trees somehow have become priorities.

I guess I’m just getting soft in my old age!

“That night, as I crawled into my sleeping bag, tired from the day’s adventures, I knew we’d never forget this trip. “

Blowout Nightmare

By Kerin Stewart

“I cannot say enough great things about the folks at USRider,” says Kerin Stewart. “They’ll not only help with flat tires, but they’ll also tow your entire rig and make arrangements for your horses.”

Itry to take one big trip per year with my horses. One year, my son and I traveled with friends from Loxahatchee, Florida, to two scenic areas in Georgia: Hard Labor in Rutledge; and Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park in Pine Mountain. We spent five days in each place.

On this trip, I experience my first-ever tire blowout. What an experience! I was traveling up I-95 in a construction zone with concrete barriers on both sides. Finally, a sign announced the end of the construction.

As I changed lanes, I checked my mirror then saw my trailer tire blow. Thankfully, no one was next to me. I called my friends and told them to get off at the next exit. Luckily, we were able to get right off the interstate and pull into a truck stop where my friends helped me change the tire.

With no other spare, I knew I had to replace the replacement tire right away. However, the truck stop didn’t carry the right size, so we resumed our travel up the interstate.

“I arranged to meet the mobile tire guy off the interstate, and he changed out all four spares,” says Kerin Stewart of the help she received from USRider. “What a huge relief!”

Fortunately, I’m a Member of USRider. While I drove, my friend called USRider so I could keep both hands on the wheel. USRider was able to locate a new tire just two exits up from our location. We were off again in no time!   >>

When this equestrian traveler experienced multiple tire blowouts, she got back on the road with the help of USRider.

Long Road Trip

The following year, I planned a camping trip with my son, Michael, who’s legally blind. We’d be meeting up with our friends Todd and Cindy, and their grandson, Christian. For this trip, we’d travel from South Florida up to the panhandle. I bought a trailer tire to use as a second spare because of the blowout the previous year. I bought the tire used, but it was better than nothing. I’d intended to buy a new tire as soon as I could.

Michael and I drove from Palm Beach County up the Florida turnpike to meet our friends in Wildwood. From there, we went to our first stop, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park in Live Oak. We stayed there one night then headed off to the Florida Caverns the next afternoon, about four hours away. Then we went on to Blackwater River State Forest for five days. Blackwater is on the Florida/Alabama state line, about 10 hours from my home in Palm Beach County.

Blowout Times Four

Early in the morning, we packed up

our two trailers and started for home. We were on the road for about an hour when the driver’s-side trailer tire blew. Luckily, my friends are like a small pit crew! They carry everything—a compressor, an air gun, two spare tires, and anything else you can think of. They changed the tire, and we were back on the road within 15 minutes.

About an hour later...bam! The same tire blew out again. Todd and Cindy again went to work changing the tire. Another hour, another blowout!

It was getting late, because we had to drive much slower. So we stopped for something to eat, and to let nerves settle and the horses rest. By then, I’d decided to stop for the night. But when the fourth tire blew, I just about lost it. There were no spare tires, and we were approaching the area where we’d part ways with our friends. It was time to call for help.

A Call for Help

It was after 5 p.m. on a Saturday when I placed a call to USRider, but I knew I needed to buy a tire that

matched the others. Glen, USRider’s Member Care Specialist, picked up the phone right away. Feeling thankful, I asked him if he could try to find the right size and type of tire that I needed.

Within minutes, Glen called to tell me he found as many tires as I needed, and that the mobile tire guy would meet me where I was. This was unbelievable!

I arranged to meet the mobile tire guy off the interstate, and he changed out all four spares. What a huge relief! It made me feel so much better knowing that my friends and I would be able to make it safely home, with spares, if needed.

I cannot say enough great things about the folks at USRider. They’ll not only help with flat tires, but they’ll also tow your entire rig and make arrangements for your horses. If you travel, there’s no better peace of mind than knowing you can pick up the phone and call them!

I don’t know where my riding adventures will take me next, but I promise my USRider membership card will be there!

Kerin Stewart and her son, Michael, on a trail ride. “For this trip, we traveled from South Florida up to the panhandle—a long drive,” says Stewart. On the trip, her trailer experienced four tire blowouts.

Kerin Stewart enjoys trail-riding and horse-camping adventures in the Southeast. Here, Stewart gives her account of roadside trailer breakdowns while on two separate trips.

Spring Health

Hock Protection

The Click Hock Shield, created by Click Horse Products, is a custom-fit hock protector designed to prevent and help heal hock sores. It features an ultra-thin, tear-resistant neoprene outer shell and soft fleece lining. A soft, flexible pocket in the center back provides comfort in the delicate area where tendons pass just under the skin. The Hock Shield comes in two adjustable sizes. Fetlock Shield and Knee Shield also available.

Antifungal Body Wash

It’s a Fungus Amungus Leg & Body Wash from SmartPak Equine is an antifungal, antimicrobial, antibacterial wash made with natural ingredients. The solution works on contact, soothing and healing such skin irritations as rain rot, scratches, cannon crud, minor wounds, and sweet itch. Its unique blend of natural ingredients includes the essence of lemon oil, lavender, rosemary, chamomile, and the carrier oils of hemp and grapeseed.

It’s a Fungus Amungus is safe for everyday use. It can also be used as a spot treatment and to prevent skin irritations, especially in areas that are prone to infection, such as lower legs and heels.

Flexible Horse Wrap

Keeping your horse’s bandages clean can be difficult, but the Corona Pure-Flex equine wrap from Equine Tack and Nutritionals eases this task. With Microban antimicrobial product protection built into the bandage, Pure-Flex provides powerful, continuous bacteria product protection, keeping damaging microbes out of the bandage. Corona Pure-Flex’s Microban technology helps prevent the growth of stains and odor-causing bacteria. Corona PureFlex wraps stay in place and are easy to apply. They’re ideal for wound or injury protection, post-surgical sites, securing standing bandages, hoof wrapping, supporting tendons, and all other typical uses for a flexible wrap.

Nutritional Treats

Show your love for your equine friend with Purina® Horse Treats. Your horse will enjoy the size, shape, and flavor of these treats, and you’ll love their reaction. Purina Horse Treats are an excellent nutritional complement to any horse feed, so you can feel good about rewarding your traveling horse.

Flavors include Berry Good Senior (designed to address the needs of senior horses), Nicker Makers (with a hint of molasses), Carrot and Oat, and Apple and Oat.

TRAIN WITH THE PROS

Training with the top equine professionals has never been easier. Equine Network’s subscription video platforms are home to top-quality videos on the topics that interest you. From horse care to colt starting, dressage to roping—our video platforms make it easy to learn from the best in the business anytime, anywhere.

Download and start streaming from your smart devices for FREE today!

Click on the brand to start your FREE trial.

USRider Member-Benefit Spotlilght

As a USRider Member, you can enjoy money-saving discounts through Winner’s Circle Advantage tailored to the active horse owner. You may access these benefits directly through the Members Area of the USRider website; plus, a brochure you’ll find enclosed in membership kits and renewal mailings provides codes to give

The Organized Barn & Trailer®

you quick access to all Winner’s Circle Partners. With so many discounts, you can easily save the cost of your annual membership fee, and more! This issue, we spotlight Trailer Accessories. For more information on each of these companies, and for more Member discounts, click here.

Stop stumbling over the tack and buckets on your trailer’s dressing-room floor. The Trailer Dressing Room Kit, created by The Organized Barn & Trailer, helps you get everything off your trailer floor and into a wall-mounted storage system. Hang several panels on the dressing-room walls or door with the wall supports’ mounting brackets, then add baskets, shelves, hooks, and hangers as needed. The large wire bin is excellent for storing bulky items, such as lawn chairs, blankets, table canopies, and tire jacks. A Tack Stall Kit is also available. USRider Members receive a 5% discount.

Pressure Pro

Travel with peace of mind with PressurePro’s market-leading Tire Pressure Monitoring Solution. Arming you with real-time tire performance data and alerts to dangerous tire situations whether on the road or parked, PressurePro helps add safety and efficiency to your journeys, no matter the road you travel. With low-tire-pressure remaining the leading cause of tire failure, PressurePro’s wireless design allows equestrians to extend tire life, increase fuel efficiency, improve handling and stability, improve braking and ride with confidence. Packed with the market’s most advanced features, PressurePro remains simple to install and easy to move between vehicles and trailers. USRider Members receive a 10% discount.

Rostech Electronics, Inc.

Have you ever wondered how your Horses were traveling in the trailer as you drive down the road? There’s no need to wonder any longer. Rostech Electronics has developed an inexpensive color monitoring system to give you a complete view of the trailer interior. With the camera in the trailer and the monitor in the cab of your tow vehicle, you can easily see your horses. The system is portable, wireless, and transmits up to 1,000 feet. USRider Members receive a $50 discount on the purchase of a system.

Swift Hitch

Swift Hitch is the original wireless portable back-up camera system designed to assist with hitching up your horse trailer. It can also be used to watch your horse in the trailer. Since 2006, the Swift Hitch’s portability, reverse-imaging, and night-vision capabilities have made this innovative product a valued tool. Swift Hitch’s SH02 wireless system was the 2012 North America Trailer Dealer Association New Product of the Year; the product has now been upgraded to non-interference digital version SH02D. USRider Members receive $20 off all Swift Hitch products, plus free shipping, with a purchase of $50 or more.

Emergency-Prep Tips

Expect the best, but plan for the worst, with this expert checklist.

Emergencies can happen to anybody at any time. You can greatly influence the outcome by being prepared. The following checklist will help you anticipate the types of emergencies you might encounter, so you can plan for them in advance.

■ You become injured or incapacitated. Store a human first-aid kit in your tow vehicle to treat minor injuries. In extreme situations, you may be incapacitated. Help first responders handle your horse by posting a visible notice in your trailer listing names and numbers to call for help. Also, plug those numbers into your cellphone’s contact list under “ICE-Horse.”

■ Your horse becomes injured. Even if your horse is a seasoned traveler, he can still hurt himself in your trailer or while riding during a day trip. Make

ventive measures—such as wrapping your horse’s legs during travel or applying shipping boots—will greatly reduce the possibility of injury.

■ You have an accident. An accident can happen at any time. Lessen this risk by being the best and most responsible driver you can be. Enhance your control by properly setting up your rig, making sure your tow vehicle is rated to tow the weight of your loaded trailer, and using the proper hitch. Carry spare halters and lead ropes in your vehicle or trailer so you’ll be prepared if—heaven forbid—your horse gets loose on the highway during an accident.

■ You get a flat tire. Have a spare tire that’s in good condition so you’ll be able to get back on the road quickly in the event you get a flat tire. In fact, have at least one spare tire for both your tow vehicle and trailer. Then know how to change flats on both.

■ Your tow vehicle breaks down. Lessen the chance of a breakdown with a pre-trip check of fluid levels and tire condition. Follow a prescribed maintenance schedule, as well, to help avoid a roadside breakdown.

sure your trailer is safe. Check for any sharp edges or protrusions inside that could cause injury. Use only removable interior dividers, bars, and center posts, in case you need to get him out of a trapped situation.

Carry a well-stocked equine first-aid kit (see next page), so you can tend to his injuries. Ask your vet to teach you emergency-treatment techniques. Pre-

■ You’re stuck in a traffic jam. If you get stuck in a traffic jam, especially in warm weather, your horse could become very stressed. Keep 10 to 20 gallons of water on board at all times to help keep your horse cool. Offer him water to drink during your trip, and sponge or rinse him off at the first opportunity.

—

Tom Scheve & Neva Kittrell Scheve, Equispirit Trailers

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO

An accident can happen at any time. Lessen this risk by being the best and most responsible driver you can be.

PHOTO BY HEIDI MELOCCO Have a spare tire that’s in good condition so you’ll be able to get back on the road quickly in the event you get a flat tire.

In-Trailer First-Aid Kit

The following items assembled into an equine first-aid kit will help you handle most situations. Discuss this checklist with your veterinarian; they may have other suggestions that are appropriate for you and your situation. Keep this kit in your tow vehicle, so you’ll have access even if your trailer becomes compromised in an accident.

■ Betadine antiseptic soap

■ Hydrogen peroxide

■ Nitrofurozone or triple-antibiotic dressing

■ Furox antibacterial spray powder

■ Ophthalmic ointment/saline eye wash (without cortisone or steroids)

■ 2 rolls of cotton

■ 4 rolls of gauze (4- or 6-inch)

■ Gauze squares

■ Clean standing bandages (2 quilt or fleece with outer wraps)

■ Adhesive tape

■ Elastikon sticky roll bandage

■ 3M Vetrap or Co-Flex cohesive flexible bandage

■ 24-inch length of 6-inch PVC pipe split in half for splinting; make sure it fits your horse’s legs

■ Butazolidin paste (by prescription)

■ Banamine granules or paste (by prescription)

■ Equine thermometer

■ Stethoscope

■ Mosquito forceps

■ Scissors

■ Twitch

■ Bucket

■ Water (at least 10 gallons)

— Neva Kittrell Scheve & James Hamilton, DVM

PHOTO BY CLIX.COM