Horse trailers need a spring once-over as well, even if they are stored inside. Dirt, leaves, mouse nests, old hay and debris find their way into trailers like stall shavings to a fleece jacket. For wood floor trailers, remove rubber mats and inspect the floor boards for water damage caused by melting snow or leaks.
Check exposed electrical wires for rodent damage, as they seem to find the plastic coating tasty. It's worth the time and hassle of backing your truck close enought to the trailer to test all electric lights and signals before you actually hook up for your first road trip.
While you're at it, check the inflation of your truck and trailer tires to enhance safety and fuel economy. They have a way of mysteriously flattening just as you are ready to load the first horse, especially if you have friends waiting nearby who are anxious to get on the road.
In addition, while not mechanically imperative, your trailer will be more pleasing to everyone's ears (including your horses) if you oil any old or rusty hinges. Springs is full of moisture, so anything that can become squeaky, does. Various products such as WD40, lithium grease and silicone are available as sprays, and are designed to loosen and lubricate noisy metal connections.
Because spring weather can be ever changing - cold and rainy one day, warm and sunny the next - many inclement days can be used productively by cleaning and organizing the equipment, tack, supplies and tools in your barn. Similar to re-booting a computer, you can begin the new riding season with a fresh slate.
Until next time...............Happy Trails.
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