2week old filly

Question
I have a 2 week old filly that will not let you touch her in any way , she will put the mare between you and her    and if you push her she lays her ears back and acts like she wants to take you.she is stalled at nite and out with the mare in the pasture all day no other horses in with them. The mare is about as laid back as they come.The filly has been like this from the monent she was born.

Answer
Hi Ken!

Patience, Patience, Patience!  You could just force her but, that would be very hard on you both....I don't recommend that.

You need to sit quietly in her space, ignoring her completely with your eyes and body language. Eventually she will come by you because she forgets that you are there or even better, gets curious about you and comes over willingly.

You must do this every day at the same time for at least 30 -40 min.  Just sit quietly.  When she does stand near you, do nothing....do not reach for her or acknowledge her in any way.  Only when you feel 99% sure she will not run from you can you look at her, and ever so slowly raise your hand to touch the large part of her body.  Avoid the small parts (head, ears, tummy).  If she does end up shying from you.  Do nothing and go back to quiet sitting until she comes near you again on her own.

Then you can add things to her world with you.  A weanling halter made from good quality leather.  If you buy a nylon one for her make sure it has a leather break-away piece in it for her safety.  Leave it on her 24/7 and when she is used to it, get her used to you pulling her by it with your hand.  Then introduce the lead rope.  Also brushing, and all the other grooming touching can be added slowly too.  

Always wait to add anything new to her world until she is ABSOLUTELY done with the last thing.  Never rush because it does not save time, it makes things take longer.

"Think Fast, Move Slow"

Good luck and remember to always wear an ASTM/SEI approved helmet!

Solange