What To Do

Immediately call 911 and a local equine or large animal vet for assistance. At all times, keep in mind that the most important thing is your own safety.

Turn on any and all emergency flashers, apply the parking brake and turn the vehicle off. If it is possible, set out warning flares or triangles and stay out of traffic lanes. Do not tie horses as they may break free and run into traffic. Instead have helpers or bystanders hold them.

Once help is on the way, you can try to help your horse. A trapped horse can struggle violently and is very dangerous. At all times stay away from the horse's limbs, which can flail and cause fatal injury.

Do not try to get into the trailer with the horses until you have help. Check on the horses through a window or opening; comfort them from there and try to take note of their breathing and general attitude.

Try to remove mats, tack and other obstacles so that rescuers have a clear path to get to the horses. Some horses will require tranquilization or even anesthesia to allow extrication.

Listen to and work with emergency personnel to ensure an orderly approach to the rescue.

What Not To Do

Do not attempt to handle this emergency alone. Do not tie horses. Have helpers or bystanders hold them. Do not try to get into the trailer with the horses until you have help.