The owner and the veterinarian should interfere as little as possible. Onlookers, friends, the curious, the nosy and the jealous should not be tolerated. They should be sent away so the mare and foal can get a little rest following a big effort. The latest fad is to imprint within minutes of the birth, but I m against it. I believe it is best to leave mom alone with her foal for several days, then start working with both.
Foals learn to trust humans and tolerate handling if the handling is consistent and frequent.
If it is started within the first week, and done with a plan and patience, it can be done very gently. It is not necessary to show the little one who is boss, it is only necessary to show the little one. Hoof care should begin at the age of two weeks. A good farrier can be relied upon to gently, carefully and very subtly shape and level the tiny hoofs. If the farrier and owner work together on a two-week schedule, the little tike should remain free of many leg and joint problems common to yearlings.