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jess_z0
Canada
185 Posts |
 Posted - 10/27/2009 : 11:09:21 AM
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Hi there
we are trying to get set up with a new dog hauling set up.
Have 15 dogs, and are thinking about going with an enclosed trailer. Safety is a huge priority. But we will only need this set up for one winter, so resale/investment etc is also a consideration
Looking for some advice on the pro vs cons of an enclosed trailer as opposed to a dog box.
Thanks
Jess |
http://www.aussiemusher.com |
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Lee
Canada
54 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2009 : 1:42:51 PM
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| If you are looking at something to handle 16 dogs, plus equipment, I would almost think you are looking at a double deck box. That suggests a frame/flat bed mount rather than on top of a pickup box. Trailers can sometimes be a pain (moving/parking/turning around) but with that many dogs to haul I would think that a trailer may be a good plan. Lots of storage for gear and the sleds. You can easily light it, inside and out. You could even put a bunk in it for you. As long as you dont put doors on the outside walls, you could probably build it so that your inside modifications could be removed in the event that you did not resell it as a dog hauler to another musher. I have read quite often over the past couple of years of a move to trailers. Just have to decide whether it would be a bumper pull or a fifth wheel. I have even seen converted horse boxes used. Or you could use a fancy HaulMark type trailer with a translucent roof. Gavin Baker in Almonte Ontario has a nice looking trailer. You could contact him. Pricewise, after you get over the purchase of the trailer, the cost should be less. |
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Ronin
USA
49 Posts |
Posted - 10/27/2009 : 6:17:17 PM
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We made the move to an enclosed trailer and we love it. We had a dual axle, all aluminum stock trailer custom made to accommodate sled dogs. Working with the trailer manufacture was a breeze because they are very familiar with making trailers to customer specification. Some of the extras we got were: extra vents for the sides and back, LED lights side and rear, full size spare, rubber floor mats, and extra loops to tie dogs out on. We love it. My best advice is get a trailer made the way you want it the first time and realize how much money, time and love you have invested in what you are hauling and by the safest most well made trailer you can find, you won't be sorry you did. You can see some photos on our blog.
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http://www.roninkennels.com |
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rhum
USA
337 Posts |
Posted - 10/29/2009 : 10:59:25 AM
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| Tim Hunt had a nice looking set up at last years Iditarod. Looked simple and efficient. Thinking about a closed trailer myself and was wishing I had taken some photos. |
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Razor
Canada
424 Posts |
Posted - 10/30/2009 : 07:49:47 AM
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| We switched over to a 12X6 cargo trailer 2 years ago as well as our boxes on the truck. It was the best move we made. Tandem axle, brakes on both, flip dowm ramp. I built 8, 2 dog boxes for a total of 16 with a tack box which doubles as a seat or a place to do dogs feet, etc. 2 roof vents and lighting inside with a 1500 watt converter as well. there is enough room for 2 sleds and tons of equipment aswe carry alot for sales. It is so nice when you come back from racing and the weather is not so good to get out of the elements and turn on the propane heater (lil buddie) and warm up. I swear by a trailer. There are pro's and con's I guess but I think more pro's. |
Razor |
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jess_z0
Canada
185 Posts |
Posted - 11/02/2009 : 12:47:42 PM
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so do you have any issues towing the trailer going through parking lots, driveways etc that have some loose snow eg a foot
also is anyone willing to share there trailer layout, benefits of there layout, pics etc?
thanks
jess |
http://www.aussiemusher.com |
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jess_z0
Canada
185 Posts |
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Embee
USA
149 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 2:04:46 PM
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| Hey Jess, contact Mike Bestgen or Dave Kamphenkel. They've been hauling around enclosed trailers for a few years now!! |
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Embee
USA
149 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 2:05:22 PM
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| Or Maggie Heileman! |
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MegC
USA
1258 Posts |
Posted - 11/09/2009 : 2:21:50 PM
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| The Loveless clan from Washington state has a big enclosed trailer also. |
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Razor
Canada
424 Posts |
Posted - 11/10/2009 : 05:52:18 AM
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| I have never had a problem in parking lots, you just have to park in a spot where you wont get boxed in. As for deep snow as long as you have 4 wheel drive it shouldn't be a problem. Just make sure you practice backing up with a trailer before actually using it with dogs, there is a nack to it and if your not used to it you can jack knife quite easy. Remember to get a tandem axle as it tow's much easier and if you do have a flat with one tire at least your dogs will be safe. |
Razor |
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powderhound66
USA
146 Posts |
Posted - 11/15/2009 : 10:33:12 AM
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I started using an enclosed trailer last year. It's a 2 horse trailer with a "rustic" living quarters. I love the enclosed trailer concept, but i don't like the set up that I have now. Next year, I will be switching to a different stock trailer without the living quarters that I can haul a atv in as well as all my dogs.
I've noticed with the enclosed trailer, that my dogs stay quieter and I think they rest better. We've had no problems with parking lots, icy roads, or snow. We have the tandem axle & a gooseneck. Another positive thing about a trailer is that you have a LOT of storage.
One thing to consider when building the boxes inside is making them big enough for 2 dogs to ride in. We've done this, and everyone (the dogs) seem to be very happy to have someone to ride and sleep with and just a little bit more room to stretch out.
I used a truck box for 2 years. It did it's job, but now that i've used an enclosed trailer I will never go back. |
Emily
Powder Hound Kennels
"For the Joy of the Ride!"
www.freewebs.com/powderhounds-sleddogs
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jess_z0
Canada
185 Posts |
Posted - 11/16/2009 : 12:46:21 PM
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Hey Emily
thanks for your reply
what are the dimensions of your actual boxes, can you send me a pic of the inside of your trailer?
thanks
jess |
http://www.aussiemusher.com |
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Topic |
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enclosed trailers
