We never have. Can't see that there would be a reason too. The mare isn't consuming a few beers doing her job, is she ? The milk may change a bit, but normally nature takes care of things, and baby learns to adjust. Changes shouldn't be that big to cause a problem.
our mares go back to work 2-3 weeks after foaling, and within a couple of weeks are working up to 4 hours a day.. we don't milk them. I have however milked them out if we are gone all day to a show, (they get pretty uncomfortable when they get that full and some will buck if their udder gets REALLY tight) Just and FYI, not all mares appreciate you helping them out, I'd make sure how she felt about it before you give it a try ! Good luck, Ev
My barrel racing mare was "thankful" when I milked her out at the shows, and when I didn't, she'd let me know she was hurting by bucking really hard while running the patterns. We do have other mares that object to having their udders messed with, though when my maiden lost her foal last year, she didn't mind at all when I milked her some to try and get the foal to eat when he was too weak to stand. It all depends on the mare, if she doesn't get too full, she'll probably be fine, but if you are away from the foal for long periods of time, she may appreciate the relief you can give her. (having nursed my own children, it's easy to commiserate with having an udder that's too full!)
we too have milked a mare or two if away from baby and needing it bad . But that is the only reason we have done it. NOt to get rid of any "bad" milk like some believe after a workout.
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The milk may change a bit, but normally nature takes care of things, and baby learns to adjust. Changes shouldn't be that big to cause a problem.
