Mare Breeding Soundness Exam
In the breeding soundness exam of the mare, the objective is to determine if the mare has a history of normal reproductive function, is cycling normally and has the ability to carry a pregnancy to term.
History - Begin the exam with positive identification of the mare including name, age, bred, registration number, identifying marks, tattoos, brands and hair whorls. Next a full history of the mare should be taken. This should involve:
- age
- performance history (possible use of steroids)
- medical history, injuries, medications , disease problems
- weight gain/loss
- health management program: vaccinations, dental care
- previous breedings / pregnancies (breeding method)
- fertility of stallions the mare was bred to
- number of breedings / conception
- previous foalings / how many, when
- last foaling date
- history of early embryonic death
- history of foaling problems
- history of stillbirths/abortions and gestional age at loss
- results of prior fertility exams, ultrasound examinations
- evidence of genital discharge
- previous reproductive tract infections and treatments
- estrous cycle regularity: method of teasing
- mothering ability
- milk production
- current and previous reproductive management
