Preparing a weanling for its first farrier visit is a handling task that should begin weeks before the farrier arrives, not on the day. A weanling that arrives at its first trim having had its feet handled daily, that stands quietly while each foot is held in a normal working position, and that accepts tapping on the hoof wall will have a positive first trimming experience that sets the standard for every farrier visit to follow. A weanling that has never had its feet handled will have a stressful first experience that makes every subsequent visit harder.
The pre-farrier preparation involves the same foot-handling work described in foot handling training, but with specific attention to simulating what the farrier actually does. This means holding the front feet in a forward position as the farrier does, holding the hind feet in a farrier-working position rather than just picking straight up, tapping firmly on the sole and hoof wall with the knuckle or a small wooden dowel, and running a hoof pick around the white line. Each of these simulations reduces the novelty of what the farrier does and makes the actual trim feel familiar.
On the day of the farrier visit, have the weanling caught and haltered before the farrier arrives so that catching stress does not combine with farrier stress. Stand quietly with the foal at its head during the trim, providing a calm, familiar presence. Do not hold the foal tightly against its will — this increases tension — but maintain light contact with the lead rope and provide reassuring contact with your free hand on the foal's neck or shoulder.
Most experienced farriers who work with young horses prefer weanlings that have been well prepared and will take extra time with those that haven't. The relationship between your young horse and its farrier is a lifelong partnership — starting it well is worth every minute of preparation.