afraid of people

Question
there was a foal born at the barn on friday and she is really afraid of people. she hids behind her mother and won't let you get too close. she will let you pet her but cringes as if you were hurting her but all you do is give her a simple stroke. it this a problem that won't get better or will it go away after much time and handling? thanks!

Answer
Hi Hannah!

You did not say if this foal and mare is yours.  I cannot give training advice to non-owners, for legal reasons.

However, I can say in the broadest of terms, that this is not a "forever" problem.

All foals should be handled and haltered ASAP.  The more they can be introduced to humans and the earlier the better.  It will make everyone's lives easier and all the strange things we do to them (blacksmith's trimming, giving medication and worming, standing for any reason) will be handled better by the horse if it understands and trusts humans.

Do not attempt to do anything with this foal and mare if they do not belong to you.  Mares can be extra nasty if they do not know you well and you come between them and their foal!!  Getting kicked is not fun and she may accidently injure the foal too.

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

Solange