There’s something truly magical about witnessing the innocence and wonder of a newborn foal as it takes its first steps into the world. In this heartwarming story, we follow Mathilde, a five-day-old Friesian foal, as she embarks on an adventure alongside her mother, Sjirkje.
As Mathilde emerges from the stables with her mother by her side, a sense of excitement fills the air. Despite her tender age of just five days, Mathilde exudes a spirited energy, eager to explore the world around her. With a spring in her step, she takes tentative strides, her curiosity piqued by the sights and sounds of the arena.
Source: Friesian Horses/YouTube
Foals are amazing as they get to act like grown horses just a few days after they’re born. And if you’re curious how they move and develop, Friesian Horses caught one on camera.
Mathilde, Sjirkje’s foal, was only 5 days old when she was first let out.Her excitement was palpable as she and her mother walked out of the stables.There was a bounce in her step, and it was clear she was ready to face the world.
Source: Friesian Horses/YouTube
Mathilde also took the time to visit each horse in the stable, as if she were meeting them for the first time.The herd was so enthralled that some of them followed Mathilde inside their own enclosures.Mathilde was initially uneasy.Puddles puzzled her because it was raining outside.She tried to talk herself into stepping through or jumping over it in that brief moment.
Source: Friesian Horses/YouTube
Eventually, her handler coaxed her and assured her that she was fine. With renewed confidence, she followed her mother into the arena.
The arena is a roofed structure filled with loose dirt.It was the place where Mathilde discovered what it was like to be free.When the mother and daughter were left to explore the location, they wasted no time.Sjirkje trotted and galloped, exuding majesty and elegance.She’d done it many times before, and it was now Mathilde’s turn to learn.
Source: Friesian Horses/YouTube
The foal came after.And, despite her lack of rhythm, she made up for it with her speed and stamina. The stable owners agreed that extreme caution should be used when releasing foals.
Foals, unlike other animals, are very self-sufficient once they find their bearings. Puppies and kittens whimper helplessly as they roll on their bedding. Meanwhile, foals are already bucking and galloping just days after birth.
Their handlers also shared that there are certain conditions to follow when walking a foal out the first time. They said it was safer in the meadows where the mare would just stop and eat grass.
She’s back with her mother, whom she eagerly nursed, after a brief period of running and playing. She’ll grow up to be a fine horse like her mother, but for now, she’ll take all the rest she can get.
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