Embarking on the journey from a rambunctious foal to a well-trained adult starts with foundational training--most crucially, teaching the foal to lead. However, it's not merely about slipping a halter on a young equine and expecting a seamless walk-off.
Expert trainer and clinician Kalley Krickeberg guides us through the essentials of hassle-free halter training.
When to Start: The Earlier, The Better
Krickeberg emphasizes starting a foal's basic handling at just a week or two old. "It’s easier to keep things from going bad at that age," she explains. "Older horses are more prone to a fight-or-flight response when they feel pressure; they might flip over backward and undergo other traumatizing things. So, I really like to start it early. I think getting babies going early is safer."
Keeping the early training sessions brief, Krickeberg limits them to five minutes or less. "I do really short sessions; the best time to do it is when you’re taking the mare out to the pasture," she advises. "The mare is a natural draw. The baby wants to go to mom, so you just aim it toward the mare and it makes moving away from pressure and following a handler that much easier."
The Horseman's Foal Halter by Weaver Equine: A Game-Changer
A variety of foal-sized halters flood the market, but Krickeberg’s preferred choice is one she co-developed with Weaver Equine. The Horseman's Foal Halter is a unique 50/50 blend of flat leather and rope. However, it's versatile; whether opting for a full leather halter, a rope halter, or another of choice, the key feature remains consistent.
Krickeberg explains her choice further: "I prefer a halter with a ring underneath the jaw, paired with a long 20-foot lead made of small-diameter yacht rope. A traditional rope halter can twist on the face and confuse the horse."
Key Features of the Horseman's Foal Halter:
- Quality Construction: 50/50 leather and rope design ensures enhanced safety and durability.
- Unique Design: The rope-halter hybrid style allows the ring to glide smoothly from side to side, aiding in better control and reduced confusion for the foal.
- Versatility: Accommodates your halter of choice, including half flat leather/half rope, full leather, and rope halters
- Improved Learning: Engineered to prevent twisting on a foal's face, it accelerates the learning process and reduces potential confusion.
Craftsmanship Meets Safety
Developed in collaboration with Kalley Krickeberg, the Horseman's Foal Halter equally prioritizes the safety of a young horse and the comfort and convenience of the handler.
Ready to Invest in Your Foal's Training Journey?
Starting a foal’s training journey with the right equipment is paramount. With the Horseman's Foal Halter by Weaver Equine, trainers ensure the safety and comfort of the young equine and invest in a smoother, more hassle-free training experience.
So, Why Wait?
Kalley Krickeberg’s expert tips on when and how to start this training are invaluable. Starting the training journey of a young horse is an essential step towards developing a well-trained adult horse.
By investing in a quality halter like the Horseman's Foal Halter, trainers set the stage for a successful and safe training journey for both the trainer and the foal.
Start your foal's training on the right foot today with the Horseman's Foal Halter and ensure a smoother, more efficient training process.