I just brought home a mare that is due to foal approx. the beginning of July or mid. Background: She has not been vaccinated since last April (when dropped off to stay with someone else for awhile and was also bred during this time),I dont believe she has been wormed since either. Very healty paint, taken good care of,looks good etc. Has always been vaccinated on time and had rotational worming cycles in the past. My question is, since she is so far along should I worm her? it seems relatively safe and the sensible thing to do but since she hasn't had previous wormings I dont want to jeopardize the mare or foal. Im not real familiar with this mare/foal process. I will wait until after she foals to vaccinate her. Any advice out there? Thanks
Deworming: The danger of deworming a mare that has not been on a regular deworming schedule is the possibility of a massive "die off" causing an impaction and colic. You might try using a less-than-full dose over several days. You should discuss this with your veterinarian.
Vaccination: Remember that foals are born with no immunity, and they rely on obtaining that immunity through the mare's colostrum. It is therefore standard practice to vaccinate mares about 30 days before foaling to boost the immunity in the mare, and therefore the passive transfer of that immunity to the foal. I would therefore vaccinate her immediately in order to assist that immunity. Again, talk to your vet to determine what vaccines to use etc.
If you cant deworm your mare safely during her pregnancy,deworm her within 12 hours of foaling with zimecterin,and give her and the foal equine probios,this is what I do for all my mares at foaling.I also deworm my foals at 7 days with zimecterin.I also vaccinate for EEE,WEE,tetanus and Flu 30 days before foal is due.
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