Premier Youngstock

Breeding For Performance

Weaning your foal or buying a weanling.

One of the most traumatic events in a foals life is separation from the mare. Although a variety of       methods are used for weaning foals from their mothers, there seems to be no consensus among experienced horsemen as to the best method. The best time or age for weaning foals also varies depending on the circumstances at each particular stud or farm. Some equine behavioural experts advise letting the foals stay with the mares as long as possible. For many this procedure is neither practical or advisable. By the time the foals are four or five months of age, most are leaving their mothers for periods of play with other foals in the field to show their independence. Many foals now are weaned at a younger age than was once customary. It used to be common practice to wean foals only after they were at least six months of age: many remained with the mares until eight months.

Today, it is not uncommon for some foals to be weaned at four months or younger. If foals are accustomed to eating creep feed before weaning, many of the stresses associated with weaning can be overcome. It is very stressful for foals to have to learn to eat and also be weaned at the same time.

Premier Youngstock are offering a select number of owners the opportunity to run their own weanlings on with the studs youngsters this winter. Weanlings do better and suffer less at this traumatic time if they can be with other youngsters that can socially interact and play rather than be isolated individually.

The youngsters are out during the day (weather permitting) or housed in large spacious open barns providing plenty of light and fresh air, deep littered fresh straw bedding provides warmth and safety from injury.

If you are interested in finding out more then please contact us