A cute baby horse is called a foal for the first twelve months of his life.
The mare carries the foal on average for 335 days.
It can be anytime between 320 and 350 days.
Usually within an hour the foal is on his feet and trying to suckle from the udder.
Foals that are handled within twelve hours of birth must be treated quietly but also firmly.
All foals are different; some are very friendly others are timid and shy.
To catch the foal you will need two people, one to hold the mare while you catch the foal.
It can be quite tricky and he may try to escape by going in front or underneath the mare.
He should be caught with one hand around his quarters and the other hand around the front of his chest.
Once you have caught him, give him some attention by gently stoking him.
Foals stay close to their mother until approximately six months old, after that they are weaned.
Weaning is separating the foal from its mother.
Foal photos
The
training of a horse starts at the beginning with the foal.
Handling begins as early as possible.
Believers of this method of handling foals from birth use the concept of foal imprinting.
A foal being imprinted will let a human touch it all over, pick up its feet, and become aware of the
human voice.
While the equine foal is far too young to be ridden, it is still able to learn skills it will need later in life.
By the end of the foal’s first year it should be
· Well handled
· Foal-slip trained
· Stand tied up
· Halter trained
· Weaned
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