Preparing for Foaling Season: A Rancher's Checklist

Picture this: the sun is rising, casting a warm golden glow over the rolling green pastures. The air is filled with anticipation as you watch a pregnant mare gently nuzzle her swollen belly. Foaling season is just around the corner, and as a rancher, it is essential to be well-prepared for this magical time.

But where do you start? How can you ensure that both the mare and the foal receive the best care possible? In this discussion, we will explore a comprehensive checklist that covers everything from choosing the right foaling location to monitoring the mare's behavior during labor.

So, grab a pen and paper, because by the end of this discussion, you'll be equipped with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate foaling season with confidence and success.

Key Takeaways

• Proper preparation and monitoring are essential for a successful and safe foaling season.
• Creating a safe and comfortable environment for mares and foals is crucial, including clearing the pasture, repairing fencing, and removing toxic plants.
• Monitoring the mare's health and nutrition is important for both her and the foal's well-being, including adjusting the diet and providing access to clean water.
• Having emergency contact information readily available, including veterinarians and essential supplies, is crucial in case of complications during foaling.

Foaling Supplies Checklist

Prepare for the upcoming foaling season with a comprehensive checklist of essential supplies.

As an experienced rancher, you understand the importance of being well-prepared for the arrival of new foals. Ensuring the safety and well-being of both the mare and foal requires careful planning and the right equipment.

Here is a list of foaling supplies that you should have on hand.

• Firstly, terry cloth towels are essential for drying off the foal after birth. Bath towels or half-size bath towels are ideal for this task. These towels are soft and absorbent, providing comfort to the newborn foal while preventing excessive moisture on its delicate skin.
• Secondly, it's crucial to have the contact information of vets and experienced foaling personnel readily available. In case of any complications during the birthing process, you can quickly reach out for professional assistance. A list of trusted veterinarians and foaling experts should be kept on your phone or in a convenient location.
• Additionally, consulting with your vet about the recommended strength of iodine for navel dipping is vital. This helps prevent infection in the foal's umbilical cord stump, reducing the risk of complications in the early days of its life.
• Lastly, closely monitoring the mare for signs indicating that she's getting closer to foaling is essential. These signs include udder filling out, relaxation of muscles over the croup and tail head, mucus discharge, and changes in behavior. By being observant and knowledgeable about these indicators, you can be better prepared for the imminent arrival of the foal.

With this foaling supplies checklist, you're well-equipped to handle the upcoming foaling season with confidence and expertise. Remember to stock up on terry cloth towels, have contact information for veterinary assistance, consult your vet for navel dipping recommendations, and watch for signs of impending foaling. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth and successful foaling season on your ranch.

Pasture Preparation

After ensuring you have all the necessary foaling supplies, it's crucial to shift your focus to pasture preparation for the upcoming foaling season on your ranch. Taking the time to properly prepare the pasture will create a safe and comfortable environment for your mares and their foals.

Here are four important steps to include in your pasture preparation checklist:

1. Clear the pasture of any debris or hazards: Remove any fallen branches, rocks, or other objects that could potentially cause injury to the horses. This includes checking for any sharp objects or holes that may pose a danger.
2. Consider rotational grazing: This practice involves dividing your pasture into smaller sections and rotating the horses between them. This ensures that the pasture has enough grass and prevents overgrazing, allowing the foal to have access to fresh, nutrient-rich grass.
3. Repair damaged fencing: Inspect the entire perimeter of the pasture and repair any damaged fencing. This will prevent the mare and foal from escaping and ensure their safety.
4. Monitor for toxic plants: Regularly inspect the pasture for any toxic plants that may harm the horses. Familiarize yourself with common poisonous plants in your area and remove them promptly to avoid any potential harm to the mare or foal.

Mare Health and Nutrition

To ensure the optimal health and nutrition of your mare during pregnancy, it's essential to closely monitor her diet and make any necessary adjustments. Providing the right balance of nutrients is crucial for the mare's well-being and the proper development of her foal. Consult with a veterinarian or equine nutritionist to create a balanced diet plan that meets the mare's specific needs during gestation.

During pregnancy, the mare's nutritional requirements change. It's important to ensure she receives adequate amounts of energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Monitor her body condition score regularly and adjust her diet accordingly to maintain a healthy weight. This will help prevent complications during foaling and promote a successful outcome.

Access to clean, fresh water is paramount at all times. Additionally, considering adding a salt block to the mare's diet to meet her mineral needs. This will help maintain electrolyte balance and support overall health.

Supplementation may be necessary to address any deficiencies in the mare's diet. Essential vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, and selenium can be added if needed. However, it's crucial to consult with a professional to determine the appropriate dosage and ensure proper supplementation.

Foaling Stall Setup

When setting up the foaling stall, it's essential to create a secure and comfortable environment for the mare and foal, ensuring their safety during the foaling process. Here are some important steps to follow in order to achieve this:

1. Size: Make sure the foaling stall is at least 14 X 14 feet in size. This will provide ample space for the mare to move around comfortably and reduce the risk of injury during foaling.
2. Hazard-free: Remove any sharp objects or potential hazards from the stall. This includes nails, wire, or any other objects that could harm the mare or the foal.
3. Bedding: Use straw bedding in the stall. Straw provides a soft and insulating surface for the mare to lie on during labor. It also helps to absorb any fluids and provides a comfortable environment for the foal.
4. Early setup: Set up the foaling stall at least 30 days before the mare's due date. This will allow the mare to acclimate to the new environment and reduce stress during the foaling process.

Emergency Contact Information

Ensure the safety and well-being of your mare and foal during the foaling process by having emergency contact information readily available. As a rancher preparing for foaling season, it's crucial to have the contact details of your veterinarian and their after-hour emergency number on hand. Additionally, it's wise to include the phone number of a backup veterinarian in case your primary veterinarian is unavailable. By having this information easily accessible, you can quickly reach out for assistance if any complications arise during the foaling process.

In your foaling kit supplies, make sure to include brown gauze or vet wrap. This will be used to wrap the mare's tail prior to foaling, providing support and preventing contamination. Another essential item to have in your foaling kit is a 1% Chlorhexadine solution and a 12mL syringe case or a small cup for naval dip. This solution is used to disinfect the foal's naval cord, reducing the risk of infection.

Furthermore, it's essential to have a Fleet Enema (Sodium Phosphate Enema) in your foaling kit supplies. This enema is administered to the foal at 1-2 hours post foaling, aiding in the passage of meconium and promoting proper bowel function.

Lastly, ensure you have clean bath towels readily available in your foaling kit. These towels will be used to dry off and stimulate the foal after birth, encouraging blood circulation and respiration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, by diligently following this rancher's checklist, you'll be well-equipped to handle the upcoming foaling season. Just like a skilled conductor leading an orchestra, you can orchestrate a safe and successful foaling experience for your horses.

Remember, preparation is key, and with the right supplies, a well-prepared pasture, and a vigilant eye on your mare's health and behavior, you'll be ready to welcome the new additions to your ranch with confidence.

Happy foaling!