Examination of the post-partum mare and foal

For a mare to be reproductively efficient, she has to produce a foal every year. With mean gestational length in the equine being 335–340 days, the goal to produce one foal/mare/ year is achievable only if foaling mares conceive by 25–30 days post-partum. There are numerous factors to consider when trying to determine what is the best management of a mare post-partum. One of the most important pieces of information is her periparturient history. Periparturient problems, including dystocia or retained placenta, have been shown to slow the rate of uterine involution and delay the first post-partum ovulation ...