Foal Imprinting

[Mare Stare]

My friend is expecting a foal (well, her horse is!) and she is considering "imprinting" it. Personally, I don't think it's natural and think it may affect the mare accepting the foal, but as I have no experience of newborn foals I can't really comment.

Just wondering what everyones opinions are.

 

[team barney]

Don't like it, I'd prefer work with an untouched horse than one who had been imprinted as a foal, in my opinion they are often troubled. I know a lot of people like it but I think it is an idiotic practise.

 

[Tnavas]

Apart from checking the foal is OK I really believe that it is best to leave mum and baby well alone for a couple of days so that they bond.

My foals all go ferel for a week or two but I've never had any problems with them once they are catchable and handled. In fact they are all like a rash and come when called. I try to take pics of them and they won't stand where they are - but rush over to greet me.

 

[Sparkles]

Leave them be.

 

[bobreader]

I think you should handle the foal after a few days but this imprinting thing is ridiculous !