[Ginger_Nell]

Hey in January we got my first horse. She is pregnant and due anytime. I was wondering how do you start training the foal. Like what are some stuff that you'd do with it and how long after its born.
Thanks,
~Natasha

[Celeste]

everything i know is from books, not from expirience, so take what i have to say with a grain of salt, and others will add on or correct me, i'm sure.

what i've read, is you get the foal used to being around people first, pretty much as soon as it's born. once he stands up and has nursed for the first time, slept for a little while maybe, just let him sniff you, pet him, run your hands over him. over the next few days/weeks get him used to having his feet handled, being touched all over, lifting his feet up while you hold them, touching his mouth and ears, and you should actually pick him up and carry him (put one arm around his chest, and one under his rump with his feet dangling) get him used to all that. after that, i know you need to halter break him and other things, but i'm not sure when that should start. just make sure that once he's used to being touched and having his feet handled, make sure he STAYS used to it. handle him every day and work with him constantly.