My horse won't load

[Hannah Gilbert]

My welsh cob section D doesn't want to load in trailer or lorry. We mostly use the lorry but every time we go to load her she gets her front feet on and then turns to the right and runs off. She won't even go on with food or a lunge line because she just sits on it so we kind of have to force her in but she's fine once she's in. I don't want to scared her about getting on the lorry so can someone please help me.

 

[Mister Ted]

Probably need to get her used to a trailer being around her on a frequent basis so she doesnt see it as a big scary thing dark thing. Putting her food in so she can go in and out herself without trying to load her could help her relax. Horses dont naturally like going into dark enclosed spaces especially without seeing an exit or light at the other end so it can be a problem. There are some good videos on You Tube on how to load.

 

[dunthing]

You could try the Monty Roberts way, with a Dually halter. It worked for an unbroken cob who had to go to horspital. I'm sure you'll find videos on YouTube about loading his way. It really does work.

 

[The Fuzzy Furry]

OP, where in the country roughly are you?
Am happy to recco, but mileage could be an issue depending on location.

 

[Hannah Gilbert]

Tamworth

 

[claret09]

I really recommend grant bazin - he is down near aston le walls, he will come to you if you want him to or you can take yours to him. my boy went to visit for 5 days - I went and worked with him every day - it wasn't necessary but I wanted to learn. we have been back several times over the years for a refresher and grant and his staff are always really happy to help. j still doesn't always load straight away but he does load well . grant is very quiet with the horses but really knows his stuff. if you type in new leaf equestrian or grant bazin you will get his number. if you want me to give you his number pm and I will give it to you.

 

[hairycob]

I had a similar problem. It was a leading problem rather than a loading problem, I got soft with him when he was very ill. Lot's of basic groundwork later we are fine. Had to load on to a strange lorry by the side of the road last week when my head gasket went so glad I got it sorted.

 

[horseydebbie]

I second the Monty Roberts Dually halter. We had loading problems with a big wb youngster. We had previously tried bridle, be nice halter and various other control halters, as well as lunge lines and a broom! We even had a natural horseman out. Complete waste of money he chased him around waving a flag. Couldn't even get him on ramp, never mind on lorry.
We purchased the Dually halter, and never looked back. Always loads, may take a few minutes to think about it, but goes on. Ensure that you watch the DVD that comes with the halter.