Here is another question that I have for anyone who cares to share advice. Specifically, is it a good idea to put shavings in the trailer so that it isn't as slippery? It is winter out here and if the rubber trailer mats get wet and then freeze while we are in the arena the horses tend to slip around on them especially when loading in. I'm wondering if there some utility in putting down some shavings. There are no open drafts so the shavings wouldn't blow around. What do others in winter climates do to make those mats less slippery?

Thanks,

J

THanks to everyone for the responses. I will definitely use shavings from now on (and not straw-that is good to know).

Cheers,

J

Good to know about the pellets as I worried they may be slippery until broken down!  I never used shavings in my straight load, never had a problem except when they would step in manure backing out which essentially greased their feet- providing a nice long slide down the ramp! I doubt shavings would help with this. 

  Are you referring to the ramp becoming slippery?  If yes try nailing wood strips lengthwise.  I got rid of my ramp before I tried this but have heard it works well as it gives the horses something to 'catch'.  Tried the shavings and they really didn't help much.  No type of mat on the ramp will eliminate slipping, nature of the beast.  I haul quite a bit through all types of weather- feel your pain! 

The shavings worked great. I put down a really deep layer and brought a manure fork and garbage bag along. One horse peed in the trailer and it was so easy to clean up. No ammonia smell, and no slippery trailer mats. I don't have a ramp, but my friend commented that I should install a rubber bumper as horses can cut themselves on the metal bumper of the step up. I will look into that. I will also pass along the tip about lining the wooden strips on the ramps as several people in our club have ramps and they do get slippery especially in the winter.

Happy trailering!

J