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  Discussion on Feeding/Handling 4 month old Filly
Author Message
Member:
Julieh

Posted on Thursday, Nov 10, 2005 - 2:51 pm:

Recently, we took one of our show horses to a training facility to trade for two mares. During the time we were there I was drawn to a beautiful little filly in the pasture. I tried several times to approach her, but it was clear she had had little human contact. On a whim, I asked if they would throw her in the deal too. To my surprise, they agreed. Of course now, I am saying to myself, what have I done? I don't know how to care for a foal that has not been handled for the first four months of her life. I need some advice on feeding and handling. I have read the article on Feeding the Growing Foal and I think I understand all that. Feed all she will eat up to 4 pounds a day? I know there is a foal feed available, does anyone have any experience with that? They are delivering her this weekend. They said they wanted a week to wean her and a week to halter break her. I can't imagine her not having a halter on at all, but I think she has just been in the pasture for her whole short little life. With the amount of horses that are at this farm, I cannot imagine that she has been wormed like she should either. I have raised a little colt before, about 10 years ago, but I had him from birth. We were there when he came into this world and we immediately began to show him attention and love. I have a feeling this one will be a little more of a challenge. Any advice on feeding and handling will be most appreciated!
Member:
Traveler

Posted on Thursday, Nov 10, 2005 - 4:26 pm:

Hi Julie,

First let me say that 'usually' when a foal is in the weaning process, it has been my experience, that their attitude towards humans soften some and they are more receptive. It's important to go slow. Often, with the ones that haven't been handled, I take a 5 gallon bucket into the stall / paddock turn it upside down and sit on it and read a book out loud, letting the foal come to me, snif me, lick me, (no biting) remember eye contact might scare her off. Always be careful and watch where she is at all times to protect yourself, just don't move too quickly. Slowly offer your hand to her. Most of the time, they will let you touch them under the chin first. Fight off the temptation to win her with treats and goodies. Talk to your vet and follow his/her feeding and worming instructions and make sure she has access to clean water. Don't forget that if you have automatic waters and she has never seen one, it can cause her not to drink enough. Good luck, the babies are so rewarding. Keep us posted.
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Saturday, Nov 12, 2005 - 10:16 am:

Be sure when you get him Julie that you begin on the same diet he was on at the training facility then make slow adjustments to how you think he should be fed and in response to his changing condition.
DrO
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