Horse loads in 3.5t but Wont load in trailer

[holly.91]

As title, horse will practically load himself on a 3.5T! but wont go on my brand new cheval liberte touring one trailer.
Its a big open space for a horse with no partition, obviously hes travelling forwards as appose to backwards which could be it
Anyone ever had this? And solved it?

 

[Jambarissa]

Has he actually travelled in it yet?

If he'll load into a 3.5 then he is unlikely to have many of the usual issues such as walking on a platform or stepping into a swaying vehicle.

I'd imagine he just needs time and familiarity. I used to do loading training back in the day, it's just about ruling out everything you can then recognising every small step in the right direction using gentle persuasion. Obviously many methods are available!

If your trailer is brand new is the ramp very black? It can look like a hole to them, throw some shavings or dust on it.

Can he watch another horse go through? Then can he follow it at a safe distance? Would he be happier to go in with another horse and a partition?

I have found trying them walking through via the front ramp and off the back very effective, it means they're heading towards a really large exit.

Stay safe, wear a hat and gloves, and poll guard and brushing boots on the horse if it's a delicate type (not travel boots, they're so hard to walk in!).

 

[holly.91]

Has he actually travelled in it yet?

If he'll load into a 3.5 then he is unlikely to have many of the usual issues such as walking on a platform or stepping into a swaying vehicle.

I'd imagine he just needs time and familiarity. I used to do loading training back in the day, it's just about ruling out everything you can then recognising every small step in the right direction using gentle persuasion. Obviously many methods are available!

If your trailer is brand new is the ramp very black? It can look like a hole to them, throw some shavings or dust on it.

Can he watch another horse go through? Then can he follow it at a safe distance? Would he be happier to go in with another horse and a partition?

I have found trying them walking through via the front ramp and off the back very effective, it means they're heading towards a really large exit.

Stay safe, wear a hat and gloves, and poll guard and brushing boots on the horse if it's a delicate type (not travel boots, they're so hard to walk in!).

Thanks for your reply.
yes, first time he was hesitant but went in, he has got progressively worse. Which makes me think its something to do with the travelling. we are driving incredibly slow so im certain its not that.
Good idea about walking through using the side door. will try that tomorrow!

 

[Jambarissa]

That does suggest there's something he doesn't like.

Has he always travelled alone? Can you video him while driving and see what he's doing?

It is a very different way of travelling for them. He might just need some time to get his balance or he might really hate it. You could try with the partition, in general they're happier without but some do like to brace against it.

 

[ponynutz]

Following - have a horse who'll only load on a lorry.

 

[holly.91]

That does suggest there's something he doesn't like.

Has he always travelled alone? Can you video him while driving and see what he's doing?

It is a very different way of travelling for them. He might just need some time to get his balance or he might really hate it. You could try with the partition, in general they're happier without but some do like to brace against it.

yes hes always travelled alone
He travels fine once in, doesent panic, but really sweaty by the time i get him off