I know its COLD! This is not the type of weather that we look forward to, or that we want to be out in. But if you breed your mares last year, the chances are between now and April 1st you will be welcoming a new addition or two to the family.
In previous Articles I have talked about coat color genetics and the possible outcomes for your foal, but in this article we will focus on signs your mare is ready to foal and safety tips for being around the new baby.
Knowing when your mare is ready to foal is extremely important, to assist with any issues she may have you need to be aware she is giving birth or about to give birth. Remember though that most mares prefer to be alone and will wait for you or another care giver to leave before giving birth. Research shows most mares foal between midnight and six am.
Signs that foaling is about to begin inlcude; distended udder, swelling of the vulva, waxing of the teats, and teat secretions. Some of these signs will be visible in the week leading up to birthing.
Changes in behavior are not often visible until the mare is in labor, at this point you will see restlessness, your mare may lay down and stand repeatedly, she may pace, refuse to eat or drink. This is the first stage of labor. The second stage of labor includes the delivery of your new bundle of joy. The mare may sweat extensively around the flanks, she will likely lay on her side to give birth and stay laying down after the birth for about 15 minutes. This is normal and required for blood flow to the foal.
After 15 minutes the mare will begin licking and cleaning the foal, this is vital bonding for mare and foal. An hour to two hours after birth the mare will pass the afterbirth or palcenta.
Foal Imprinting is an important topic and can be extremely important to the foal. But safety comes first. Some mares become very protective of their foals and can be aggressive towards people in the first several hours after the foal is born. Foal imprinting can take place in the first several hours after birth. If you miss the foal being born, coming in an hour or two later and teaching the foal to allow you to touch will still work.
Be careful around the new foal and mother for several days, foals are still learning the ins and outs of walking, and while small and cute, still contain lots of power.
Check your fences and make sure the foal cannot escape under or through them. As this can cause stress to you, your mare and your foal if they can’t figure out how to get back in.
If you have any concerns during the birthing process contact your vet immediately. If this is your first foal and you are not sure about imprinting or would like to watch it done, contact local breeding farms or trainers in your area.
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By: Lydia Bagley
