Malton Equine Veterinary Services

Foal Medicine

Treatment of the Sick Foal
Treatment of the Sick Foal
Newborn foals are immunologically naive and particularly vulnerable, necessitating specialized care to ensure their health and well-being. At our equine veterinary clinic, we offer thorough assessment and treatment tailored to the unique needs of neonatal foals. Recognizing the critical importance of early intervention, we often provide on-farm management and monitoring of your foal and it’s dam.
Our experienced team is well-versed in neonatal foal care, understanding the delicate balance required in addressing the specific challenges these young equines may face. From routine evaluations to emergency treatments, our approach is rooted in providing individualized and compassionate care. We prioritize on-farm management whenever feasible, acknowledging the benefits of maintaining a foal’s proximity to their natural surroundings.
Malton Equine Veterinary Services

In instances where intensive treatment is necessary, our veterinary team is adept at identifying when referral to specialized facilities becomes essential. We maintain strong relationships with local referral centers, ensuring a seamless transition when advanced care is required. This collaborative network enhances our ability to provide the highest level of medical attention and ensures that your foal receives the best care possible during these critical early stages of life.

With our specialized neonatal services, we strive to give each foal the optimal start they deserve in their journey towards a healthy and thriving equine life.

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.

Treatment of the sick foal