What should be done before being bred?

[ShainaTN]

Around June 9 or 10th, we will be sending Baylee and Mystery to stud. I was wanting to know what I should have done to them before they go to be bred... vet exams, shots, etc. And also, would a week at stud be long enough for them to get in foal, because that is what we were wanting to do? I couldn't imagine being parted from my horses that long. And also, when they return home, will it be okay to ride and carry on with my normal activities or should I give them time to settle? This will be a first time for us sending a mare to stud! All help will be greatly appreciated!!!!!!!!

Thanks ;D

[Golden Girl]

Yes, you should have all your vacs up to date. Also having your mares cultured isn't a bad idea, as if there is a problem (a positive result) she won't take. (get in foal) <I will refer to both your mares as 'she'>

As far as a week... well she has to be IN heat, and around to end of the cycle to take. You can have them ultrasound checked for a follicle, then you will know that she is close to the conceiving time. BUT if she is a maiden mare then she will need to settle into the breeders barn before she is to be bred. Sometimes maiden mares will not willingly except a stallion the first couple of attempts at live cover. (that happened with my TB mare several years ago)

Hopefully the stud operators will also be honest as to the length of mare care required. Again having them ultrasound checked in foal, or you have to wait an additional cycle and tease them with the stallion again to see if they come back in heat.

GOOD LUCK! I hope you get two foals on the ground for next year! ;D

Oh ya, you can ride all you want through this summer, fall & winter. When she is in the last trimester, then stop as she will start getting heavey infoal. ;D