Elements and Performance Criteria
- Prepare the mare for foaling
- Carry out a risk assessment for all activities working with pregnant mares and newborn foals, and take action to control risks
- Calculate foaling date and prepare mare and facilities for foaling
- Adjust mare nutritional requirements according to nutrition plan
- Determine vaccination schedule in consultation with veterinarian
- Check for Caslick and open when necessary
- Prepare mare for parturition
- Monitor signs of foaling and imminent birth in mares, and review mare foaling history
- Ensure site hygiene and infection control, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling mares
- Wash and clean the mare’s udder and perineal areas and wrap the upper half of the tail
- Ensure emergency resuscitation kit is stocked and ready
- Monitor mares and foals during and after birth
- Monitor and assist mares during the stages of labour using safe and calm horse handling techniques
- Ensure emergency procedures are in place for veterinarian care and/or transport to clinic
- Make sure foal is breathing and receives colostrum soon after birth
- Put iodine on the umbilical stump and check over several days for the presence of urine
- Make sure the foal stands and nurses correctly in a reasonable timeframe
- Make sure the mare expels the afterbirth in appropriate time and check it for completeness
- Check the mare for several days for any signs of reproductive tract infection
- Check the foal for several days to monitor health and vital signs, including immunoglobulin testing
- Collect colostrum from suitable mares for freezing and to be used as required
- Apply treatments to mares and foals
- Make sure the foal is protected against tetanus
- Ensure foals are vaccinated and dewormed according to workplace procedures
- Implement workplace procedures for dealing with orphan foals
- Check mares for signs that may warrant attention from a veterinarian
- Record details of the birth and maintain workplace records