So he got a bit worked up...

lucyjay11

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Hi all,

Currently trying to train my 5 month old colt with some basics.

I have managed to fully pick out the 2 front hooves, however when i went to do the back legs he just kept kicking out and fidgeting.

Also, took him for the grand tour of the yard, hes done this a couple of times and has been superb, however tonight, the yard was a little busy and maybe i was expecting too much to soon, but he just panicked and kept trotting around me at the end of the lead rope and trying to rear.

Hes only been on the yard for a week and a half, so am i expecting too much too soon?

Also any ideas on the hoof picking situation?

I'm new to handling foals and i am just doing what i'm reading about, so any advice and help would be appreciated.
 
Given the recent move, I'd slow it down a bit, let him get a bit more of a grip on his new home :)

As to picking out, slow that down as well. Always follow the same leg order. Hinds - start off just running your hands down his legs, after a week or so of that, gently lift a hoof just off the ground, and keep going, slowly lifting the hoof higher.
 
mrsm gives very good advice. I spent a couple of weeks gradually getting my 3 yr old to lift her hooves. I simply went at her pace and we worked until she was comfortable. Its a lot for any horse to take in, when a yard is busy so it may be worth just taking a step back and letting him get used to everthing. baby steps and it doesnt take long for them to get there.

hope all goes well for the future.
 
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