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Advice for foaling at
home
The accepted gestation period in the horse is 340 days
post conception. Generally, mares will give birth within
one to two weeks either side of this date, although mares
have been known to hold onto their foals for up to 400 days!
There are certain things you should look out for as indicators that the mare is going to foal soon.
These include:
· Slackening of the muscles around the tail and pelvis
· Lengthening and softening of the vulva
· Udders starting to fill
· Distension of the nipples
· Waxing up of the nipples (usually 48-72 hours before
birth)
It should be noted however that some mares, especially maiden mares, can show no signs of labour at all.
Once the mare’s waters break, the foal should be out
and trying to stand within 30-45 minutes. The foal should
present soles down, one leg slightly in front of the other
with the head between. If it presents in any other fashion,
then you must call the vet immediately, as intervention will
be needed if the birth is to be successful.
This information gives only a small idea of the signs and
process of labour and birth in the mare. If you are looking
to foal down at home, we recommend you read plenty of books
on the subject, and be in contact with your vet so that they are aware that a foaling may be taking place. Alternatively, use
a professional foaling service.
Foaling at WEBS
Waiting for a foal to arrive, can be a very stressful
time for any owner, and involves staying awake to watch signs
of labour for several days (or even weeks). Obviously, the
most important and rewarding part of the breeding process
is seeing the result of it all – the foal.
WEBS provides an extremely professional foaling service, where
the mare is carefully monitored until birth when she can be
assisted if necessary. The mare and foal are then cared
for until they are ready to go home. WEBS uses a variety of
systems to accurately predict the date of foaling. We can
take the hassle out of foaling for you.
Basic foaling fee is £200.00
Stabling for the mare costs £190.00 per week. includes sitting up charge, use of foaling alarm, and blood-hormone assays.
Any drugs administered and veterinary costs are extra
*All prices quotes on the website are INCLUSIVE of VAT at 17.50%
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