The severe weather season is upon us, and as horse owners, we need to be prepared for any meteorological situation when hauling horses. USRider, the national provider of roadside emergency assistance for equestrians, spoke with large-animal rescue authority Rebecca Gimenez, PhD, about what to do when traveling in bad weather situations.

Gimenez, who is the president and a primary instructor for Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, said, "Bad weather should not be a surprise."

She added, "With cell phones, GPS , and other conveniences of the modern world, you should ensure that you have access to a reliable weather app. Pick one that works for you – make sure it has moving radar and prediction capabilities. Have your navigator/alternate driver check it regularly on your route. And purchase a weather radio or a CB with a weather channel you can monitor."

Another tip is to drive extra cautiously. Even in light snow or rain, slow down to a safer speed and allow greater following distance in front of your rig. Drive defensively, turn on your hazard lights, and, if the precipitation or wind gets too high that you cannot see, pull way off the road or preferably at a parking lot and wait it out