OklahomaHorses Magazine Nov/Dec 2020

November/December 2020 • OklahomaHorses 9 for weanlings. Many owners may have heard rumors such as providing a goat, chicken or some other animal to keep your foal company. While a calm pony or adult may again ease the transition into the next phase of life, there may be a bit more myth than fact with odd animals pairing up for company. Gradual Weaning Rather than abrupt weaning, there are several methods of utilizing gradual weaning. One option may be to separate the mare and foal across a fence line. In this manner, the foal can be weaned from the nutritional support of the mare while she can still provide the comfort of her presence. However, if this method is employed, it is imperative that the fence be completely safe, ensuring the foal cannot get over, under or through the fence. Inspect the fence for its ability to trap a head or hoof, or any ability to harm the mare and foal. Avoid barbed wired, high tensile fence or any other inappropriate fence separating the mare and foal. Gradual weaning, where the mare and foal are separated for increasing periods of time, can be utilized as well but may require a longer period of time. You may also see an increase in nursing or care-seeking behavior each time the mare and foal are reunited. Weaning in Pairs Pair-weaning foals may also be an option, but the personality types of the youngsters may determine your success. Two calm babies may be great together, but if you pair a high-stress baby with another, chaos may ensue. Some studies have found that foal pairs weaned in stalls may experience more stress, as foals display much more aggressive behavior, such as kicking and biting. Conceivably, the youngsters are redirecting their anger and frustration onto their peers. You may also encounter difficulties if the two foals become bonded so tightly that they will undergo a second “weaning” period when removed from each other. Thus, the personalities and social groups of the foals should never be disregarded. Many might believe it is necessary to wean the foal in order to begin the training process and handling of the young foal. However, that may simply be untrue. Small separations, such as when the mare may be worked with during rebreeding or leaving the mare behind to work with the foal in close proximity, may actually prepare the youngster mentally for the big day ahead. Following the Dam’s Lead You can even gain some ground in foal training by just performing these activities with their dam instead. Researchers in Denmark have shown foals that observed mares walking over tarps, or having novel objects moved around them, were much less excitable when they themselves were exposed to these stimuli at a later date. Further, the relationship a mare has with humans may have far more influence on her foal’s behavior than any activity taking place with the foal itself. Other studies have found foals that are handled immediately after the weaning period are more trainable than foals which have no human contact for 21 days post-weaning. There are many opportunities to begin training the young foal prior to its separation from its dam. Unfortunately, few studies have followed foals long-term post-weaning to determine which methods promote the best outcomes in regard to health and trainability and long-term coping mechanisms. Using sound practices which minimize stress, ensure safety and promote overall well-being are the key foundations to create a happy, healthy weanling.