Calmer for loading

[Abbeyandersonflynn]

Can anyone recommend a good instant calmer for loading ? He travels fine just getting him loaded is a bit of a problem.

I know ground work and other stuff is good for loading but I also would like to see if a calmer would help as he is a very big and strong horse

Thanks

 

[Red-1]

I think the bigger a horse is the more important the ground work. Not just for loading, but also for clipping, leading in and out from the field, vet attention, shoeing....

Instant calmers come in two forms; the vet sedatives, such as Sedalin which I would not use when travelling or riding as it knocks them for six; and "calmer" which is often as much a placebo for the owner as anything. I do think the calmers can have a mild effect, so no harm in using one, but you need to make sure it is competition legal. They are also not cheap.

I think the ground work will make the most difference though.

 

[Abbeyandersonflynn]

Thanks for the help - he is going to a competition in two weeks time so would need something that is competition legal.

His ground work is great is really well behaved with being in the stable, backing up and other things.

He had a bad experience in a horsebox and was left in the box while the other horse was taken out and got a bit worried about being left himself.