USRider has teamed up with nationally known large-animal rescue veterinarian Tomas Gimenez, DrMedVet, in an effort to further enhance the safety of horses and those who travel with horses.

Through an innovative research project, USRider and Gimenez, a professor of Animal and Veterinary Sciences at Clemson University in Clemson, S.C., are gathering and analyzing data about horse trailer accidents. The data will be used to formulate recommendations for preventing accidents and enhancing the safety of horses.

Gimenez began collecting data through a survey in December 2003. To date, about 100 horse owners, trainers, emergency responders, veterinarians and others who have somehow been involved in horse trailer incidents have responded. About 100 more responses are needed to ensure a representative sampling of data. To participate in the project, visit www.usrider.org to download the survey form.

The information being collected includes type of transport, type of towing vehicle, number and type of horses in transport, cause of accident, results of accident, extent of human and equine injuries, and type of personnel involved in rescue