Pen Trailers for Livestock Shows: Everything You Need to Know
For any livestock exhibitor, whether you're prepping for a local county fair or a national-level show, one key factor in your success is how you transport your animals. The right pen trailer can help ensure your livestock arrives safely, comfortably, and ready to go!
Pen trailers are purpose-built solutions for livestock transport, tailored to meet the unique needs of show exhibitors. This blog will guide you through the essentials of pen trailers, detailing why they are invaluable for showmen, parents, and showstock owners alike.
Why Pen Trailers Are a Game-Changer for Exhibitors
Unlike standard livestock trailers, pen trailers are explicitly designed for show animals like goats, sheep, and swine. Here's why they are a must-have for smooth and secure transport:
Safe & Secure Transportation
When transporting show animals, their safety is your top priority. Pen trailers help reduce transport-related stress and injuries by providing strong partitions that keep animals secure during the entire trip. These trailers are designed to minimize unnecessary movement, ensuring your livestock remains calm and protected, even on bumpy roads.
Ample Space for Multiple Animals
Whether you're hauling a few animals or an entire crew, pen trailers are built to accommodate your needs. With individually partitioned pens, they offer enough room for each animal to stay comfortable and stand naturally, which is essential for maintaining their health and appearance before any show.
Easy Loading & Unloading
One of the standout features of pen trailers is their ease of use. Most models offer wide, low ramps or side gates for hassle-free loading and unloading. This design ensures a safe and efficient process for both livestock and handlers, reducing the risk of injury for everyone involved.
Optimal Ventilation & Comfort
Proper airflow is critical when transporting animals, especially during warmer months. Pen trailers are equipped with slatted sides, roof vents, or top doors to provide excellent ventilation. This keeps your animals cool and comfortable while minimizing stress and the risk of overheating.
Durable & Long-Lasting Design
When investing in a pen trailer, durability matters. These trailers are built to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use while ensuring your animals' safety. High-quality construction materials and thoughtful design make pen trailers a reliable choice for both seasoned showmen and first-time exhibitors. Additionally, regular maintenance and proper care can extend the life of your trailer and keep it in top condition.
Customizable Options
Pen trailers are available in a variety of sizes and configurations to fit your specific needs. You can choose different lengths and widths to accommodate different numbers of animals. Some pen trailers even offer adjustable pens that can be rearranged to suit various animal sizes. Depending on your budget, you can also opt for additional features such as living quarters, waterers, storage compartments, and electrical hookups.
Safety and Comfort for Animals
Pen trailers are designed with the comfort and safety of animals in mind. They provide a secure and enclosed environment for transportation, protecting animals from harsh weather conditions or potential injuries during travel. With proper ventilation and spacious pens, animals can also have a comfortable ride without feeling cramped or confined.
Features to Look for in Your Pen Trailer
When selecting the right pen trailer, here are a few key features to consider that can elevate your transport experience:
Adjustable Partitions: For flexibility in spacing, particularly if you're transporting animals of different sizes.
Non-Slip Flooring: Provides a stable surface for animals during travel and helps prevent injuries.
Water Access Options: Some trailers come with built-in waterers or space for portable solutions to keep animals hydrated on the go.
Easy-to-Clean Materials: Make clean-up simple after a show or long haul.
The Benefits for Exhibitors, Parents, and Showstock Owners
If you're a parent supporting your young showman, parent of one, or a showstock owner, a pen trailer helps simplify the process of transporting animals to and from competitions, ensures your livestock arrives ready to compete at their best, and is a practical investment for maintaining the health and performance of your animals during travel.
The ability to easily secure, ventilate, and transport your animals in a stress-free environment makes pen trailers an essential tool for anyone in the livestock show world.
Why Your Choice of Trailer Matters
Selecting the right trailer doesn’t just improve your experience; it directly impacts your animals’ welfare. Stress-free transport translates to better performance in the show ring, making your investment in a high-quality pen trailer worth every penny. From contributing to your animals’ health to enhancing your overall showing success, the right trailer truly makes a lasting impression.
Start Your Pen Trailer Journey with the Right Partner
At National Trailer Source, we understand the unique needs of livestock exhibitors and owners. That's why we offer a wide range of pen trailers designed for reliability, comfort, and convenience. Whether you're a first-time show family or a seasoned exhibitor, we’ve got the perfect solution to make every trip a smooth one.
Visit us online or at one of our 10 locations to explore our collection of pen trailers and find the perfect fit for your needs.