Very Common
Less Common
You also might be observing
Observation
What you see. The starting point for addressing any equine health related issue is your observation.
YOU ARE OBSERVING
Foaling, Prolonged Labor, 2nd Stage Labor Lasting Over 20 Minutes
Summary
Your mare is foaling, but it seems like the process is taking longer than it should.
Once strong abdominal contractions start and the fetal membranes rupture, labor should progress very rapidly. If delivery is delayed, the fetus is in danger. Therefore prompt and correct treatment is critical.
Call your veterinarian immediately and describe the situation. In some cases, they may be able to reach your location rapidly. If this is not possible, they may be able to lead you through assisting your mare.
Once strong abdominal contractions start and the fetal membranes rupture, labor should progress very rapidly. If delivery is delayed, the fetus is in danger. Therefore prompt and correct treatment is critical.
Call your veterinarian immediately and describe the situation. In some cases, they may be able to reach your location rapidly. If this is not possible, they may be able to lead you through assisting your mare.
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Code Red
Call Your Vet Immediately, Even Outside Business Hours- If you have any doubt about the length of time your mare is taking to deliver.
- Questions coming up around foaling should usually be discussed right away with your vet.
your role
What To Do
What Not To Do
Do not intervene unless you have tried to reach your vet and they are not available to help and you are confident in what you are doing.
Skills you may need
Procedures that you may need to perform on your horse.
your vet's role
Questions Your Vet Might Ask:
- What is the mare doing currently?
- Can you see the foal's feet or head?
- When did you first see the pale fetal membranes (water bag)?
- When did the water break?
- Do you see premature placental separation or red bag?
- Can I have your location and directions to get to you as soon as possible?
Diagnostics Your Vet May Perform
Figuring out the cause of the problem. These are tests or procedures used by your vet to determine what’s wrong.
Very Common
Diagnoses Your Vet May Consider
The cause of the problem. These are conditions or ailments that are the cause of the observations you make.
Treatments Your Vet May Recommend
A way to resolve the condition or diagnosis. Resolving the underlying cause or treating the signs of disease (symptomatic treatment)
Very Common
Less Common
further reading & resources
Helpful Terms and Topics
Written, reviewed or shared by experts in equine health