Foaling time at PitterPatterPonies is not only exciting but very hectic. A month before the mare is due to foal she is brought down into a smaller paddock to be monitored, wormed, feet trimmed, vaccinated and then given privacy.

Several of our girls don't like being confined away from the others in the foaling boxes where they can be watched by night vision cameras. A record is kept of the mares behaviour, etc as each one is different. Those that prefer an outside birth means we have to get the tent and night vision glasses out!

We have an extensive foaling kit prepared for emergencies including mare's replacement milk should the worse happen (see our orphan foal). However, a handy tip is to freeze some colestrum should the unthinkable occur.

The National Foaling Bank is a brilliant place to call if you have any concerns or questions and will tell you where your nearest vet specialising in foaling difficulties is. Should you be unable to reach your vet, It is always an excellent idea to pre-warn your vet of your impending birth as we have found it is better to find a lady vet as their hands are smaller and therefore more suitable for the job, a basic consideration that can be overlooked!

Most mares foal during the night but for the last two years four mares have given us the added joy (and extra sleep!) by having them during the day (one whilst the vet was visiting to rasping teeth - very handy!) so have included them on our site, they can be a little grim but worth a look.

       AuricFlyte at 4.20am – hence they are a little dark and our pyjamas!

               Molly My Girl having PPP Buckaroo.

       PPP Tootsie having PPP Serious Playtime.