Inseparable yearlings! Any ideas?

[gumpatrump]

I have two yearling colts, about 16 months who have been sharing a field together for a few months now. It didn't take long for them to become great pals, but now they won't leave each others sides. Where ever one goes, the other one is right behind.
When I do try to seperate them, they both go mad, It has resulted in fences being broken and stables being jumped out of, just so they can be reunited.
I have tried putting 2 ponies in with them for extra company, but they do the whole, I'm just a baby thing with their mouths and RUN away every time. The ponies love it, they think its a great game!
Any ideas on how to get these two boys less dependent on each other. I want to start doing some in hand stuff with them but all they can think about is each other.

Any ideas will be greatly appreciated, thank you

Oh I forgot to say they are entire too!! Not sure if that makes a difference.

 

[AmyMay]

Get them cut for a start before their friendship turns very sour.

And how long have you left the ponies in with them for??

 

[gumpatrump]

I want to get them cut, but the vets will not do it at this time of year. Very frustrating!

The ponies have been in with them for about 2 weeks now!

 

[fine_and_dandy]

Hiya C

Re AmyMay - I know C has made enquiries as to getting them cut, but the Vet's will not cut them at this time of year - apparently the end of September is the earliest they will consider carrying out the procedure due to weather and how persistent the flies are.

 

[AmyMay]

Yes - makes sense.

 

[Brontie]

Just an idea you could maybe try? Perhaps taking them both into the school, you and another rider. Leading them around Together, then slowlly but surely, bringing one behind the other and making a bigger and bigger cap between them. And then ask the friend or yourself to stop at the bottom of the school while the other horse and rider carrys on going round and round...


Remember to wear a hard hat.

 

[Hettie]

Are you feeding them? If you are try feeding them further and further away from one another (they are men changes must be made in a subtle fashion

) until they are having their food either in separate fields or stables, initially w gate/door open and then gradually increasing the time they are apart. It's a good idea to crack on with it as they are only getting bigger! Also try to do stuff with them to develop individual personalities. A quick walk in hand, tying up to groom for five mins etc. They will become more independent as they grow up certainly if you keep them uncut... I've got my uncut 3yo out with a 3yo pony gelding and they are happy to be separated but it did take a while. I find it's worst for the one in the field as its "left" whilst the other one gets to go on an "adventure". Have fun...