The developmental behaviour of foals and its relevance to husbandry, part 2: weaning

Abstract

The veterinary team plays a key role in providing help and education to breeders. Weaning is a critical time in the foal's life and is likely to have a significant impact on their future behaviour and resilience to stress. This article is the second of two applying the research on foal behavioural development to good practice in the management and training of foals. This article examines the evidence surrounding weaning practices and provides a guide to best practice with the resources available to the veterinary team and the horse breeders they work with.