Weaning Foals from Mares

Posted By: M.V.
Subject: Weaning colt

I was happy to see the response to the question whether or not a stud colt would try to breed to his dam, because I also was wondering about this. I've decided to wean my stud colt this month after observing him mounting his dam when she came into season recently. He's just under 5 mo old and I didn't realize that he would be doing this at such an early age. This is my first experience with raising a colt. Just wanted to say thanks for answering the previous question so fast. I plan on having the colt weaned by the end of July. My friend tells me to take away the colt altogether and not to let the dam see him at all. My trainer said she prefers to separate the two gradually. I've been taking the colt away for about an hour or so to play with my gelding. He's a wonderful baby sitter. The dam is frantic about the separation some days, then other days, she's so happy without the colt bothering her. Any ideas, advice on weaning would be appreciated.