Simply looking at your pregnant mares may save your foal's life! Establish a routine. Note each mare's behavior within the herd. Is she the first to eat? The last? Does she have a buddy? Establish in your mind what is normal for that individual. This way, when she is painful from a uterine torsion, her behavior change will be a red flag that tells you that veterinary intervention is probably needed.

Be specific when looking over your pregnant mares. Make a checklist-look at every mare, every time. Other than behavior/colic signs, note the mammary development of the mare. One of the major indicators of a compromised pregnancy is premature mammary development and lactation. Mares begin a slow, deliberate mammary development approximately one month prior to parturition (birth) and should not drip milk from the teats until hours prior to the birthing process. If a mare has excessive mammary development longer than two weeks prior to her due date, is dripping milk, or has any vaginal discharge, she needs to be examined by a veterinarian immediately. Early intervention is essential for saving the foal's life.

Remember...

be consistent, be specific, and BE EARLY.

If you have any questions about this or want more information, please contact us!! Watch for our next several newsletters that covers some Foaling Problems that can occur.