Things You'll Need:
- Foaling kit
- Vet numbers
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Step 1
If you witnessed the birth and if the mare allows it, wipe out any mucus in the newborn foals nostrils to help it breathe better.
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Step 2
If a vet is not present at your foal’s birth find and save the placenta so your vet can inspect it to make sure it’s whole and intact. Put it in a trash bag or bucket and keep it away from any animals while you wait for the vet.
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Step 3
If the mare has not passed the remainder of the after birth while you are present you may tie it up so that she doesn’t step on it and pull it out. It should come out on its own. Do Not attempt to pull it out.
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Step 4
Using a shallow container like a bottle top or film canister, dip the foals umbilical cord in iodine several times a day for the first few days and as soon as you can after birth. This will help dry it out and prevent infection. It will eventually fall off.
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Step 5
Make sure the foal is standing and nursing within an hour after birth. Call your vet if this does not happen. You may have to help a weak foal stand and find the teat to nurse.
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Step 6
If your mare will allow it, gently handle the foal soon after birth in order to imprint the foal.
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Step 7
Watch for your foals mycomium or first bowel movement. I will be black and not formed like normal fecal balls. It might come out all at once or over several tries. If your foal looks like it’s straining to defecate, give it an enema. Some people give the enema soon after birth regardless
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Step 8
Give mare and foal probiotic to stimulate the growth of friendly bacteria in the gut. You may notice your foal eating feces. This is normal and a natural way to get that bacteria.
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Step 9
Give mare and foal tetanus toxoid and tetanus antitoxin. If you are not familiar with giving vaccinations have your vet out.
