Oregon Performance Equinetics - Meredith C. Pierce, DVM

It’s time
To start thinking about foaling and the proper steps that take place. Also, don’t forget those mares need their pre-foaling vaccines 4-6 prior to their due dates.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU'RE EXPECTING (A FOAL) 🐴

If your mare has made it through 11 months of pregnancy, you're almost there. Labor and delivery, while momentous, are generally uncomplicated — however, being a prepared and informed owner will help you keep your anxiety in check so you can assist the new mother and foal get off to a great start.

Here are some things you can do to prepare for the arrival of the foal:

• Consult with your veterinarian well in advance of the birth. Know how to reach your regular veterinarian after hours and ask about a back-up or referring veterinarian in case your regular horse doctor is not available.

• Clean and disinfect the stall as thoroughly as possible. Provide adequate bedding.

• Wash the mare's udder, v***a and hindquarters with a mild soap and rinse thoroughly.

• Wrap the mare's tail with a clean wrap when you observe the first stage of labor. Be sure that the wrap is not applied too tightly or left on too long, as it can cut off circulation and permanently damage the tail.

• Time each stage of labor, to help you keep accurate track of the mare's progress. Take written notes! When you're worried or anxious, your perception of time can become distorted.

As always, these are general guidelines and you should contact your veterinarian for more information specific to your situation. Good luck!

It's a new year and there are some exciting new changes happening here at Oregon Performance Equinetics. As some of you may have already seen or heard I have agreed to step in and take over the veterinary care at Northwest Mare Services for Gary Martin. Dr. Trish Kentner has made the decision to slow down and retire, something I know she has been working towards for several years now. I want to congratulate her on her decision as she has been working towards this for several years.

So what does this mean for everyone? First off it means that like every other year the breeding season months will be very, very busy. I am going to ask that all clients please be patient and understanding as this may be a bit of an adjustment for everyone. I will also continue to ask that everyone plan ahead for spring vaccines and dentals as well as all other things non emergent. In the event you have an emergency you are all encouraged to reach out but know that if I am not available you will need to find another provider, such as Bend Equine.

For those of you wondering how this will work my plan is to focus on reproductive clients in the mornings and to fit in others in the afternoons as time allows. Please remember during breeding season I work long hours and at times late into the night but my regular working hours will continue to be Monday through Friday 8 AM-5PM. I still do not schedule appointments on the weekends.

For those who were with me last year that dropped mares off for breeding this will still be an option for you but remember space is limited at my place and I will again ask that you let me know if, when, and how many mares you may want this option for. For those breeding clients with multiple mares I will still offer farm calls to certain areas for some of you. For now enjoy new year and don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.

💥Important announcement💥

Coggins tests are taking 5-7 business to be completed currently. If you have an upcoming trip plan ahead and get your Coggins test drawn well in advance. With the holiday shipping schedules the lab cannot guarantee to run samples everyday with delayed deliveries. Stat fees will not be guaranteed to get your tests done as quickly as previously completed.