This message is from: "Catherine lassesen" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]>
Lori, We take short bareback rides on the mares with the foals loose about 1-2 weeks after they are birthed out. We only walk and it is done very simple and easy. Just to expose the foals to new things and to get the mares to work a little. We progress each week and on hot days let the foals play in water (a creek) for a few minutes. (Be sure to re-dip the umbilical cord if it gets wet.) This exposes them to trail situations at an early age. In the arena, we let them loose also. Some mares are ok others will try to run and catch up with the foals... Bad news for a beginning rider if Mama wants to go the way of the foal and not the way the rider wants them to go. Again, we walk only. The foal will run buck, fart and kick up their heals... We will ask the foals to pony at about 3-4 weeks old. They must lead on the ground well and we must trust the mare not to panic. Nothing like a panicked Mama with a foal tangles underneath her. :-) We do not leave property without the foal being in total control (due to hunters and animals). Once they pony, we take them everywhere with Mama, so that they have been exposed to as much as possible before they go to their new homes. Be sure the people you ride with are experienced enough to help you in case there is trouble. A sharp knife is always wise... Practice with Mama prior to going out with other horses and do allow Mama to get to know the other horses first. Have a safe and wonderful time with your first foal. Catherine Lassesen Hestehaven - The Horse Garden Sunny and Bright today... think I'll mug some Fjordee Foals... :-)
