A Flying Start in Life by Sarah Stoneham
For breeders early Spring brings excitement as after many months of planning and waiting, we are eagerly anticipating the arrival of our foals. For less experienced breeders this can often be tinged with a little apprehension.
The first week after birth carries the highest risk of mortality of anytime in your foal’s life.
Signs of problems can be subtle and things can deteriorate far more rapidly than with older foals or adults. If you are able to pick up early signs of things going wrong and call us without delay, you can make a really significant difference to the outcome.
The graphics below help to display the usual timing parameters for each stage of foaling and for the early hours of a newborn foal’s life. Owners are advised to seek veterinary advice once parameters fall within the yellow zone. Once the parameters are in the red zone prompt veterinary intervention is likely to be required.