Foaling Simplified, 2nd Edn

Foaling Simplified is a book I have long recommended to students and newcomers to the thoroughbred breeding industry.

The Second Edition includes updated photographs and diagrams that beautifully illustrate the concise explanations, giving a step by step guide to foaling and the associated problems that may be encountered.

This book is a valuable resource for those wanting to acquire a sound knowledge of foaling and the aftercare of both the mare and foal, and will greatly support and clarify practical experience gained out on the stud farm.

An essential guide to support your foaling, especially for new comers. It is so important to have guidance on assisting both the mare and foal, foreseeing potential problems and supporting the mare and foal in the first few hours.

This book is straight forward, full of useful information and a refresher on the key aspects.

‘Foaling Simplified’ takes on no easy task: it makes attending a foaling – an event that often seem immensely daunting to all but the most seasoned of professionals – appear entirely approachable. Sue manages to distil down the overwhelming intricacies andjargon of this wondrous yet complex affair into a concise and comprehensive guide containing all the essential need-to-knows, as well as gems of practical details to suit the needs of students and horse owners alike.

The straightforward wording, logical layout, and brilliant explanatory diagrams and photos combine to make all the concepts impeccably clear, and leave the reader knowing the key things to look out for before, during and after foaling. I feel so much more confident going into my equine work placements having read this book, knowing that I have Sue’s expert guidance at hand in such a pragmatic and easy-to-navigate form!

One of the best examples of how simplified can mean clarified but not omitted!

This book covers what you need to know and more importantly when you need to seek help. It is scientifically accurate and explanative, but retains the personal touch through which the years of foaling experience of the author transpire. This is particularly true as she takes you through the different stages of giving birth, transporting you directly into the stable with the mare and foal.

The author bridges the gap between the vet and the owner, creating a common ground on which both may communicate with ease. She not only portrays best practice with regards to the handling and the management of the pregnant mare but also explains the rationale behind it. Why is topping a bed up after birth detrimental to both the foal’s lungs and the mare’s uterus? What is the actual structure that ruptures when the mare is breaking water? Why do some people hold the mare’s tongue to one side during problematic births? The medical answers to all these questions are combined with the particularities of different breeding industries, notably those of thoroughbreds, to provide an accurate yet accessible overview.

I wish I had read this book before my stud farm work and would recommend this easy to read summary to all students that want to make the most of their work experience and to any horse owner thinking about breeding their mare!

This book takes you straight into the stable, next to the mare during parturition. The normal process, but also the pathological process is described carefully, so it could be recognized fast if there are any problems. All the principles and handles that you need to know are included. Next to the written text, there are clear pictures who help you understand everything. It prepares you for all aspects that you can expect before, during and after the foaling. For veterinary students it is a handy guide to learn the practical side of foaling. For the horse-owners, it’s also educational to know what’s going to happen and when they need to take action. Therefore it’s a must to read for everyone involved with mares and foals during the breeding season!