How To Handle Post Delivery Problems in Mares

With the dawning of spring, visions of blossoming flowers; bees collecting pollen; cook-outs and family gatherings in the warmth of sunlight after shrugging off the chill of the winter come to mind.  For a horse owner, it also means the birth of a foal.  This vision of an awkwardly walking young foal brings about visions of happiness, hope and the miracle of life which can be appreciated by individuals of any age.

The care of the mare is often over shadowed by the new foal.  Everyone is surrounding the young foal to take a look at it and marvel in the wonder of their birth.  Even the mare herself tends to care more for the new foal than for herself.  The giving of a mother knows no bounds even in the animal world.  This is where you will have to take control of the care for the mare yourself.

The first item you want to do is contact a licensed veterinarian as soon as she shows signs of giving birth.  This will allow time for them to arrive either for the birth or shortly thereafter.  It's always a good idea to have a person with you that is specifically trained to help your mare along.

Be sure that she isn't running a fever or showing other signs of complications.  Lethargic behavior; trouble standing; excessive tiredness and vomiting are all signs that she is in need of help.  Other signs that are often overlooked or misdiagnosed by the owner are depression; rapid pulse; distress; any discomfort; dark colored membranes or colic.  All of the above signs are examples that your mare is in desperate need of medical treatment.

You need to understand, and be aware of prior to foaling, that your mare could suffer from a "retained" placenta.  This is a life-threatening condition that needs the services of a qualified veterinarian to get your mare through her ordeal.  If the placenta hasn't passed within 3 hours after the birth, call the veterinarian back immediately.

The birth of a foal is a wonderful and beautiful experience to be part of.  With the right preparations in place, you will be ready to aid and assist your mare if any of the above might occur.  Also keep this in mind, your mare can tell if you are very nervous or anxious.  Please try to remain calm and in control through the whole birth.  Your mare can sense your emotions or anxiety and by keeping calm it will put your mare at ease.