Breeding
Equine breeding is happening worldwide. People are trying to produce quality foals for top dollar. This though, is causing some serious problems...
Birth: A foal is born after 11 months of developing in the mother's womb. They maneuver into the proper position in the womb, and when the time comes the are born. The foal comes into this world front feet first, followed by the nose and head. Once the shoulders have been pushed out the mare often gives one last push which causes the foal to come out unusually quick. The delivery usually lasts less than 30 minutes...
Foal: About an hour after it's birth the foal can stand and walk. They then begin drinking their mother's milk.
A foal is essentially a horse younger than a year old. They grow quite rapidly at this stage and can run as fast as it's mother. A foal should be gently worked with to ensure that they don't become nasty. Attention to the safety and level of comfort is key here so you don't make a negative impression on the foal, as any lessons now will stay with it it's whole life.
A foal is essentially a horse younger than a year old. They grow quite rapidly at this stage and can run as fast as it's mother. A foal should be gently worked with to ensure that they don't become nasty. Attention to the safety and level of comfort is key here so you don't make a negative impression on the foal, as any lessons now will stay with it it's whole life.
Yearling: A yearling is a year old but can be called a yearling up until they are 3. The growth of the horse at this stage slows a bit, but don't be fooled, they will hit awkward growth spurts causing them to be butt high, have a small head, or short legs. Don't worry about the weird look of your yearling, they will develop evenly as they get older. Think of a yearling horse as a spunky, rebellious teenager, they have a mind of their own, and usually have a bit of an attitude. Light work can be done with yearlings, anything besides the actual riding of them. They can be saddled, bridled, and even have weight across their backs, but no actual riding.
Adult: An adult horse is mature at 3-4 years old. At this age horses can be ridden walk/trot/canter. Some can be jumped, but most cannot be jumped until they are 4 years or older.