HEALTHY START FOR BROODMARE AND FOAL

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Be sure foaling stalls are disinfected, clean, warm, and dry. The stall should be large enough to easily accommodate the mare, foal, and anyone who assists during foaling. Mares are very likely to lie down during foaling and so there must be enough room for the mare to stand up easily. If foaling appears imminent the mare's vulva may be washed with an antibacterial soap and her tail wrapped to minimize contamination.

Most mares will foal at night or very early in the morning. Labor progresses through three stages. During the first stage, the foal positions itself for delivery, a process that can take anywhere from 30 minutes to four hours. During this stage, the mare may appear uncomfortable and show clinical signs resembling colic, such as sweating and pawing at the ground or at its abdomen. Second-stage labor begins with rupture of the fetal membranes (water breaks) and ends with delivery of the foal. This stage is normally very rapid and should not exceed 40 minutes. If the foal is not delivered within this period of time, a true emergency exists and you should call your veterinarian. Third-stage labor involves passage of the placenta and should be complete within four hours. After the placenta is passed, carefully examine it for missing pieces. It's important that no part of the afterbirth remain in the uterus. Retained placenta in mares can cause serious complications including founder (laminitis) and severe uterine infections-and requires veterinary attention.

Breeding mares and following them through gestation to foaling can be a very rewarding experience. Good preventive health care along the way will increase the chances of a healthy mare and foal. Your veterinarian is the best source of advice for health cafe and any problems that may be a concern in your area.

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