Which practice is recommended when loading into a box if there is no partition?

• A. Use cross ties
• B. Stand by the horse
• C. Open jockey door
• D. Remove partition

Answer: (A)

When there’s no partition in the box, you need extra control over the horse’s head and direction as you load. Cross ties provide that control by guiding the head straight and limiting sideways movement, so the horse is less likely to swing its head toward the door or out of alignment. This helps you move the horse smoothly in and minimizes the risk of stepping on fittings or crowding the space.

Standing by the horse can be risky if the animal spooks or bolts, opening the jockey door creates an easy escape route and can encourage rushing, and removing the partition removes a safety barrier that helps keep the horse confined during loading. Using cross ties keeps the load safe and orderly, making it the recommended approach.