On a serious note, there are different management practices and methods to weaning a foal that can make the process less stressful on all parties involved.
Typically foals are usually weaned between 4-6 months of age, but some people choose to leave the foal with the mare a little longer. The age and timing of the weaning process should be determined by a number of factors, including the foal’s health and maturity, the mare’s temperament, and environmental concerns (weather).
Here are a few useful resources I've found on weaning:
- Reducing Weaning Stress in Foals – eXtension.org/Horses
- Weanlings: Management and Care of Young Horses – eXtension.org/Horses
- Study: Nanny Horses Reduce Weaning Stress for Foals – TheHorse.com
In addition to weaning by the signs, we also opted to turn Hank out with Brooke, an old retired broodmare, once he was separated from the mare. This gave him a “buddy” to stay with, but still helped the weaning process along. At night, we brought him up in the barn and put him in a box stall, where he had his own grain and hay (both of which he had be introduced to several months before and had become accustomed to eating). The first 24 hours of weaning were rather loud and eventful around here, but Hank has settled in very well and is learning how to grow up on his own now.