Reproduction and Breeding – Page 5

January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Understanding Reproductive Physiology and Anatomy of the Mare

A working knowledge of the mare’s reproductive anatomy and physiology is essential in a horse breeding program. This knowledge provides the fundamental basis on which all other principles of horse breeding rest. The following article discusses the reproductive anatomy of the mare and explains the importance of each part.

Horse owners want to breed their mares for numerous reasons. Many owners have a beloved mare from which a foal is wanted, while others manage a large-scale breeding operation as a

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January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Weaning and Management of Weanling Horses

Management of weanlings and the weaning process can be complex and challenging. This article provides recommendations on preparing the foal to be weaned, weaning methods and care and management of the weanling horse.

Young, weaned horses below the age of 1 year are called weanlings. During this time of life, the foals have been separated from their dams, are rapidly growing and are receiving training and management practices that have life-long effects. This fact sheet provides recommendations on preparing the

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January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Broodmares and Fescue Pasture

Broodmares that graze endophyte-infected fescue pasture have potential foaling, lactation and re-breeding problems. The following article discusses the potential problems that may occur if a broodmare is allowed to graze on endophyte-infected fescue.

Now that spring is here, foals are arriving. Spring and early summer is nature’s time for most foals to be born. In the Southeast and other areas of the United States, many pregnant mares graze tall fescue pastures. Unfortunately, many of these fescue pastures are infected with

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January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Developing a Horse Breeding Program

The goal of every horse breeder is to produce genetically superior horses. Because there are so many environmental conditions which affect the horse, it is difficult to evaluate the genetic potential. A gifted breeder is able to select superior horses for mating, and manages the environmental affects, such as nutrition, health care, training and injuries, to maximize the horse’s genetic potential. Since breeding for quality horses is not a simple matter, breeders must understand basic genetic principles and their application …

January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Management of the Newborn and Growing Foal

Detailed planning and good management practices in a horse breeding program often result in a healthy foal. It is extremely important to provide proper care and attention immediately after the foal is born as well as during the early days of a foal’s life. The following article discusses management practices of newborn and growing foals.

A newborn foal is one of the most anticipated and exciting occurrences in the horse industry. Actually, the entire industry revolves around this single event. …

January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Horse Breeding Basics

A healthy stallion is necessary to have a successful horse breeding program. Having a working knowledge of stallion management is also essential. The following article discusses stallion management practices.

Role of the Stallion in Reproduction

The stallion must deliver healthy spermatozoa (which contain his genetic contribution) into the vagina of the mare at time of service. He should have enough libido (sex drive) to tease and service frequently and be able to sustain production of healthy spermatozoa throughout the breeding …

January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Horse Foaling Management Guidelines

A healthy foal is often the result of intense foaling management and preparation. Both the mare and foal have their own specific vaccination, deworming and nutritional needs. The following article discusses foaling management guidelines from gestation through weaning.

Parturition in the Mare

A live, healthy foal is the result of considerable time, money and effort. Good management practices should not be relaxed at any time in an equine program and especially not prior to the time the foal is weaned. …

January 31, 2020January 31, 2020

Broodmare Management in Fall

Fall management of broodmares is far more critical than some breeders realize and can directly impact foaling and re-breeding successes next year.

Weaning

Most foals are weaned between four and six months of age. Depending on foaling date, weaning can occur in late summer or early fall. If there are several foals, owners may wait until the younger foals are at least four months old to wean all foals at the same time. On large breeding farms, weaning may occur …