SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/horse-trailer-untie-first

Unloading a tied horse from a trailer, what must you do before undoing the butt chain or bar?

Untie the horse at its head first.

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  1. Take off its halter
  2. Untie the horse at its head ✔
  3. Lower the ramp and stand behind

Why: A horse may try to back out as soon as the tailgate is down. If it is still tied, it can panic and pull back hard. Untie the head first, then open the back.

Huh, didn't know that: After a long haul, Mississippi State says to walk the horse to restore circulation before putting it in a stall.

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A horse walks into a bar. The bartender says, "Hey!" The horse says, "You read my mind!"
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References

Answer: Untie the horse at its head. A horse may try to back out as soon as the tailgate is down. If it is still tied, it can panic and pull back hard. Untie the head first, then open the back.

  1. Basic Horse Safety (Publication 852), Mississippi State University Extension 4h.extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/P852.pdf
    Never undo the butt chain or bar before you untie your horse at its head. The horse may try backing out as soon as the tailgate is down.
    Checked 2026-10-10.
  2. Basic Horse Safety (Publication 852), Mississippi State University Extension 4h.extension.msstate.edu/sites/default/files/2024-02/P852.pdf
    Secure the butt chain or bar as soon as the horse is in the trailer and always before tying the horse.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Test yourself in the game

HorsesAfter a horse walks into a trailer, what do you do first?HorsesWhen can you load a horse into a trailer?HorsesWhat kind of halter should a horse wear in a trailer?

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