Neonatal Care at the Farm

The primary care clinician is in a unique position to evaluate historical, environmental, and management considerations that may impact ability to successfully attend to foal's needs on the farm. The timing of the initial foal examination depends on multiple factors but includes a recognition of increased risk secondary to perinatal factors. Perinatal risk factors affecting the mare include previous and concurrent disease. Red blood cell and packed cell volume are influenced by transfer of placental blood prior to umbilical cord breakage, catecholamine release, and fluid balance. Periodic monitoring of blood glucose can identify alterations in glucose metabolism and allow rapid corrections. The ability of the clinician to evaluate foals is improved with the availability of portable ultrasonography. Ultrasound has proven to be more accurate than either physical examination or radiography in the detection of rib fractures, commonly overlying the heart in the cranioventral thorax.