I run a rescue ranch in Tucson for abused horses and dogs. I recently got in two young horses about six to eight months old, weighing in at about 500 pounds each. They have been badly branded, and they appear to be beaten up pretty badly. Their cuts are healing, and they seem to have that “baby resilience.” One of them has a bad limp in the right front leg; I suspect from being hobbled or tied for the branding. They are very distrustful of humans (of course), and I have yet to be able to touch or halter them. They are warming up to me slowly as I hand-feed them both.

I am just wondering what advice you can give in general. My veterinarian said their wounds should be okay for a few days. My main concern is being able to catch them and gently let them know I am no threat, then administer medical attention. How does one go about this? My rescues so far have all been adults; these are my first babies