Foaling Season! Foaling Your Mare in New Zealand: Essential Considerations and Checklist for Horse Owners

Breeding and foaling a mare can be an exciting and rewarding experience for horse owners in New Zealand. However, it's a process that requires careful planning, preparation, and attention to detail. This blog post will outline key considerations for foaling your own mare and provide a comprehensive checklist to ensure you're well-prepared for the arrival of your new foal.

Considerations for Foaling Your Own Mare:

1. Timing:

   • The average gestation period for mares is around 340 days, but it can range from 320 to 360 days.

   • Plan for foaling during New Zealand's spring months (September to November) for optimal weather conditions.

2. Veterinary Care:

   • Establish a relationship with an experienced equine veterinarian.

   • Schedule regular check-ups throughout the pregnancy.

   • Discuss vaccination and deworming protocols for pregnant mares.

3. Nutrition:

   • Adjust the mare's diet to meet her changing nutritional needs during pregnancy.

   • Consult with your vet or an equine nutritionist for a balanced feeding plan.

4. Exercise:

   • Maintain a moderate exercise routine for your mare until the last trimester.

   • Gradually reduce exercise as the due date approaches.

5. Foaling Environment:

   • Prepare a clean, safe foaling area (stable or paddock).

   • Ensure the area is quiet, well-lit, and free from hazards.

6. Monitoring:

   • Learn to recognize the signs of impending foaling.

   • Consider installing foaling cameras for round-the-clock observation.

7. Assistance:

   • Decide whether you'll be present for the birth or hire experienced help.

   • Have emergency contact numbers readily available.

8. Post-Foaling Care:

   • Plan for the care of both mare and foal immediately after birth.

   • Be prepared to assist with the foal's first nursing if necessary.

Checklist for Mare Owners:

Pre-Foaling:

[ ] Schedule veterinary check-ups and ultrasounds

[ ] Update vaccinations and deworming as recommended by your vet

[ ] Adjust mare's diet and exercise routine [ ] Prepare foaling kit (clean towels, umbilical clamp, iodine, etc.)

[ ] Clean and disinfect the foaling area [ ] Stock up on colostrum and milk replacer (just in case)

[ ] Install foaling cameras or alarm system

[ ] Familiarize yourself with normal foaling processes and potential complications

[ ] Create an emergency contact list (vet, experienced handlers)

During Foaling:

[ ] Monitor the mare for signs of labor

[ ] Ensure the foaling area is clean and quiet

[ ] Have your foaling kit readily accessible

[ ] Be prepared to assist if necessary, but allow natural birth if possible

[ ] Contact your vet if any complications arise

Post-Foaling:

[ ] Ensure the foal is breathing and the umbilical cord has broken naturally

[ ] Dip the foal's umbilical stump in iodine

[ ] Observe the mare passing the placenta (should occur within 3 hours)

[ ] Assist the foal to stand and nurse if needed

[ ] Check that the foal has passed meconium

[ ] Monitor both mare and foal for any signs of distress

[ ] Schedule a post-foaling check-up with your veterinarian

Conclusion: Foaling your own mare in New Zealand can be a wonderful experience with proper planning and preparation. By considering these key factors and following the provided checklist, you'll be well-equipped to handle the foaling process and give your mare and new foal the best possible start. Remember, when in doubt, always consult with your equine veterinarian for professional advice tailored to your specific situation.