FOAL prep starts as soon as a foal is born. It is of huge benefit to handle foals from day one and get them hand walking beside the mare as young as possible. It makes life easier for the foals and the handlers from the outset.

Regular worming is extremely important from a young age and starts from four weeks old, foals are shown to the farrier at three - four weeks old.

Pre-weaning

We have found that leading the mare and foal in every morning for a light feed and a check over is beneficial as it ensures the foals get used to handling and most importantly hard feed before weaning.

Weaning can be the most stressful time in a foal’s life, a foal that is accustomed to hard feed will not experience as much stress and excessive weight loss.

Prep

Preparation begins seven-eight weeks before the intended sale.

We do not use rugs as some potential buyers like to turn foals out a week or two after the sales. Rugs tend to make foals soft and receptive to coughs and colds.

  • Foals are fed and turned out each morning
  • Return to stables for a light feed at 12
  • After lunch, the foals are walked in groups of three to four, each taking a turn to lead the group
  • A rubber bit is always used during exercise
  • After the daily exercise, foals are taught to stand correctly, groomed and a hoof conditioner is applied to feet.

    • Feed is given little and often, up to four times a day. Carron oil is added to the feed along with an anti-ulcer treatment. Feed is increased as the exercise routine increases.

    The walking routine begins with 10 minutes and builds up to 30 minutes the week before the sales.

    The progress of each foal is monitored on a weekly basis, feed levels are adjusted for individual foals, in case a foal becomes top heavy or too light, at the same time always keeping an eye out for joint problems.

    Pre-sale

    The foal’s feet are dressed six-seven days before the sale to avoid tender feet at the sale.

    At this stage the foal should be well used to the daily grooming routine and walk with purpose and balance. An athletic, correct walk is everything.

    However if you do find at this stage a foal is just not ready, or has suffered a setback through injury or lameness, do not hesitate to withdraw from the sale, there is always another one in February.

    Sales time!

    We ship our foals to the sales as early as possible to allow them time to settle in to their new surroundings and grow accustomed to the hustle and bustle of the sales complex.

    Clear, well presented door signs and neatly dressed staff are key to give the right impression and intention.

    Get to the sales complex early, have the foals exercised, fed, and groomed and prepared for a long day. It is important to be prepared as potential buyers can be too busy to return to a foal that was simply not ready to be shown. It is important to have your research done on the pedigree of each foal, know who is training siblings and any updates on the page.

    Keep a record of potential buyers viewing each foal, this gives you a clear indication of interest in any given foal. Keep in contact with the auctioneer and put your realistic reserve on early.

    Arrive up to the sales ring at least 10 lots beforehand and hopefully all your hard work will be rewarded.

    Finally, best of luck to all!

    Martin Walsh manages Swordlestown Stud, Naas, Co Kildare