Malton Equine Veterinary Services
Foal Medicine
Neonatal (newborn) foal examination
Neonatal (newborn) foal examination
Early Assessment of Newborn Foals: Proactive Care for a Healthy Start.
A prompt examination of the newborn foal within the first couple of days is a critical step in ensuring their well-being and addressing potential issues that may arise during foaling. Our comprehensive assessment focuses on detecting problems stemming from foaling trauma, identifying any congenital defects, and evaluating the transfer of immunity from the mare to the foal. A thorough examination includes obtaining a blood sample from the foal, allowing us to assess immune status and identify any potential concerns early on.
As part of our proactive care approach, tetanus antitoxin is administered to safeguard against tetanus-related complications.Our commitment to early foal assessments underscores our dedication to providing the highest standard of care. We meticulously check the mare’s comfort, udder condition, and perineal health to ensure her postpartum recovery is progressing as expected. This holistic examination not only addresses immediate concerns but also sets the foundation for the foal’s overall health and development.
Emergency veterinary attention for your horse may be required at any time of the day or night. We provide veterinary care 24 hours a day, 365 days a year to registered clients.
Foal Medicine
A prompt examination of the newborn foal within the first couple of days is a critical step in ensuring their well-being and addressing potential issues that may arise during foaling.
Neonatal (newborn) foal examination
IgG, or immunoglobulin G, is a crucial marker in assessing the immunity status of newborn foals. A low IgG reading is indicative of an insufficient transfer of immunity from the mare's colostrum to the foal.
Plasma Transfusion
Limb deformities, whether in the form of flexural (contracted tendons) or angular (valgus/varus - toe-in/toe-out) issues, are not uncommon in newborn foals.
Assessment of limb conformation
Entropion, the inward rolling of the lower eyelid, is a condition that, when left unaddressed, can adversely impact the ocular health of foals.
Management of entropion
Routine chest scanning for foals is a proactive and essential component of our equine veterinary care, especially considering the common occurrence of pneumonia in foals.
Routine chest scanning
Umbilical or inguinal hernias are conditions commonly encountered in foals, often manifesting within the first three months of life.
Management of hernias
In compliance with current regulations, it is now a legal requirement for all horses to be microchipped by six months of age, underscoring the importance of precise identification within the equine community.
Identification and microchipping for passports
In our commitment to ensuring the optimal health and well-being of your equine companion, we adhere rigorously to the latest advancements in equine health practices.
Advice on worming and vaccination
Newborn foals are immunologically naive and particularly vulnerable, necessitating specialized care to ensure their health and well-being.