Bathing a Yearling...

[Nitzanah]

How can I make my yearling less sensative when it comes to giving him a bath? He's goes nuts when we try to give him one!! He's supposed to be white, but with all the dirt and mud he looks grey!!

[walkers4pnh]

I have a yearling too. Don't cross tie. Allow him freedom to move. If your not too much in a hurry the less he'll move -so his reactions will tell you when to stop approaching...retreat..and re-approach. Its going to be about approach and retreat and desensitisation. start with the slow running hose..no spray, offer a drink from a slow running hose and when he gets calm lower it so he lowers his head to drink it. (hopefully he'll be thirsty) Be friendly and calm. Start with the feet only and quit for the day. Repeat next time and work your way up. I still haven't got to the head! I use warm water just flowing next to his body and rub it in to his body with my hands...approach and retreat...no smelly soap. When he's older its OK to to tie him for convenience so both your hands are free to do a big job!

[Tracey]

Hey,

Great approach and outstanding advice. It sounds like you have done the Parelli Natural Horsemanship clinics/program.

Keep up the good work,

Tracey :)