Handling prior to weaning

[jessss]

Interested on peoples opinion - my mare and foal are out 24/7, but he has been handled nearly every day. He will walk round the field on a head collar and lead rope, be groomed, pick up feet, has had farrier etc. When he is weaned he will be going to young stock livery nearby

How much handling etc would you do with him before weaning? Should he be tying up / loading / going for walks away from mum etc prior to weaning?

 

[twiggy2]

You have covered everything I would expect a foal to have experienced.

 

[tda]

You have covered everything I would expect a foal to have experienced.

I agree, also, to try and separate a unweaned foal and it's mother prior to actual weaning could cause more stress.

 

[The Xmas Furry]

My home breds were used to be able to walk and trot up, load and have a light travel out with mum somewhere, yes, all before they were weaned. Then left to go a little feral (except feet checks etc) through the winter.
Having had unhandled 4 to 8 yr olds also, they soon learn once you have their trust, so you don't need to cram stuff in, not unless you are doing foal shows etc.

 

[TheMule]

I’d say you’ve done all the essentials- I travel them if mum loads and travels well but it’s not the end of the world if not. I NEVER tie foals up- it can go disastrously wrong very quickly