Horse Trailers, a vital part of horse ownership. If you are not buying brand new, choose your second-hand trailer wisely.

There are two basic horse trailers tag-along (bumper pull) or gooseneck. Before you even consider buying a horse, be sure you have the resources available to buy one, or know someone who also has horses that will allow you access to a trailer. I know one gal who bought a horse without having a trailer first. She did get the horse home, but in the following week, the horse became quite ill and she couldn't trailer him to get help. She lived in a very rural area. By the time she did round up a trailer it was to late, the horse had passed away. So be prepared, because you never know when an emergency will strike, and horses (unless they are mini's) won't fit in the back of a van or truck.

If you want to buy a second-hand trailer, I encourage you to first read The Complete Guide to Buying, Maintaining and Servicing a Horse Trailer by Neva Kittrell Scheve.  This book is one of the best on the market today and she will guide you expertly telling you what to look for as far as faults that can be found in older trailers, as well as how to distinguish a good buy from a risky one.

Buying a new trailer is always best, but they are expensive. You want to consider not only your needs, but most importantly the needs of your horse.  When I first got my horses, I rode in the back of the trailer with them. I will never forget how difficult it was to stand up while the trailer was in motion, and forget staying on me feet during curves in the road. Then my husband put on a weight distribution hitch and I rode again in the trailer. This time it was a bit easier to keep my balance.

There are straight-loading horse trailers, trailers with ramps, trailers with no ramps, angle loading, one-horse, two horse, or more. Stock trailers are popular for just straight hauling, but if you want to go to shows you need a more elaborate set-up. Many trailers have a sleeping quarters for you as well as a tack room, even small bathrooms! Go to horse shows and take a look around at all the trailers in the parking lot. Try to find people that aren't to busy that can tell you the pros and cons of the different trailers. Do your homework and your horse will thank you.