HAULING HORSES?

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The end of Stage I labor in horses is usually noted by the expulsion of two to five gallons of fluid. This event, termed breaking water, is usually followed by a 1015 minute period during which the amniotic sac and foal's feet will become visible through the vulva. If the amnion or feet are not visible after the appearance of chorioallantoic fluid, a vet should be notified. If you need to delay labor while waiting for a vet, you may walk the mare to prevent further foaling. Foals survive one to two hours after Stage II labor starts. Indeed, you must act quickly if you suspect dystocia in the mare.

If feet and amnion appear in the normal time, labor usually progresses normally. A mare will usually lie down for Stage II labor when the foal is delivered. This process takes only 15 minutes in most mares. Any delay could mean a malpositioned foal and veterinary assistance should be summoned at once.

In both cattle and horses, the placenta is usually expelled 15 minutes to an hour following delivery. Retention of membranes beyond six to nine hours would require veterinary care. Examining the rectal and vulva area after delivery is a good idea, too. It may be purple and swollen, but should not show signs of hemorrhage or tearing.

Preparing yourself and your animals for delivery is paramount if you wish to avoid complications. Knowing the exact birth date is helpful, but other signs like increased mammary size, colostrum secretion, and softening of the vulva and muscles around the tail area are good indicators for the impending parturition. You may have to set up a watching schedule one to two weeks prior to the due date, especially if the above signs are evident. One can be fairly lenient in older cows possibly checking every six to eight hours. In heifers, checking every two or three hours may be necessary when nearing the due date. Some horse owners prefer to sleep in the barn with their mares, especially if the mares are "waxing"- secreting colostrum. Of course, even the best foal watchers sometimes miss the great event. Most animals will deliver early in the morning, say two or three o'clock. I have gone in for a cup of coffee only to come back and find a healthy foal on the ground. Just remember that you have more time with cattle dystocias than with horses; however, cattle tend to have more dystocias than horses, statistically. If you are observant and well informed, you should be able to tell when an animal is in trouble or when things are progressing normally. Good luck with your babies, you are on the right track.

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