HELP!!!! Have not seen this before.... [Archive]

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 01:12 AM

Ok, so here's my situation. I"ve only been breeding for a few years. I bought 2 mares that had both had over 10 babies. They are easy to foal and have been great experiences to the breeding world. I've learned all the "normal" signs and miss their foalings by minutes every time. But they have been easy and great!
Well, this year I"ve offered to help a friend who has a 17 year old TB mare who is malnourished and has had no prenatal care what so ever. She has been out on pasture (and yes I"m sure there was fescue) up until the past week when I finally got my hands on her. She was bred September 6, 2008. She is underweight and her belly isn't very big. She made HUGE progress in "bagging up" over the past 24 hours, including developing a ton of edema under her tummy, up towards her teats. She has appeared unusually uncomfortable today and not eating her hay as well as she has been. She won't move away from the fan and seems to be hotter than normal. Her vulva is very relaxed today and started dripping a mucousy discharge with a tiny bit of pink color in it. I wasn't worried too much until this discharge started this evening and seems to be increasing in amounts. It's most noticeable after or during a bowel movement....when she's pushing, she is pushing out huge strings and globs of this mucous! I called a friend (who is a vet) and she is thinking possibly the mucous plug!? She said if it were her, she would stand by tonight just to be sure. I had already set up for the vet to see this mare tomorrow at 11am to check for heart beat on the baby and then overall health of the mare, since she's not in the best of shape and I just learned that her last (which was also her first) foal was stillborn and they did no autopsy.
I"m just very nervous for this old girl! Does anyone have some advice about what I"m seeing????
Thank you so much, in advance!

showjumpers66

Jul. 27, 2009, 01:47 AM

Sounds like she might have an infection. I would have the vet out first thing tomorrow to check her. I have had an older mare that was drippy all the time, but also one that aborted late pregnancy who produced discharge like what you describe.

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 01:54 AM

She already has an appointment with the vet at 11am. I had set it up last week just to have her looked over. The discharge doesn't appear like infection. It's pretty clear, but with a slight tint of pink in it. Doesn't look yellow or greenish and has no smell.......
?????????????????????

Donella

Jul. 27, 2009, 01:55 AM

yeah, doesn't sound normal to me either. If she had a stillborn previously, there is a chance that she is prone to placentitis and is thus experiencing it again and hence the discharge. I am not sure, it just doesn't sound normal. Please keep us posted.

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 02:08 AM

I"m so worried for her, but the poor mare deserves better care than what she got this past year. I can only do so much for her at this very short notice! I hope the vet tells me that everything is gonna be ok tomorrow. The vet I spoke to earlier said that if the baby were not alive, the discharge would be really nasty looking and smelly! So, I"m crossing my fingers, since that's not the case! I"ll keep everyone posted! Pray for her please!

Dressage_Diva333

Jul. 27, 2009, 02:27 AM

Doens't sound normal to me either, I'd be very worried about placentitis. Especially with the very rapid bagging up you described, even thought she is off fescue now.

Let us know what the vet says.

She's a very lucky mare that you've taken over her care :yes: Good luck!

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 02:50 AM

well i just got back from the barn. She is still excreting a ton of almost milky mucousy discharge when she pushes for a bowel movement. Seems pretty comfortable right now and appears to be waxing up now. I can't believe how fast her milk is coming in! I"m not familiar of this placentitis you all are talking about? Please share info....
But I do have a big smile on my face because the baby was flipping and doing cartwheels when I went up there. Thats the very first time I have ever gotten it to move! Must sleep all day and play all night.

showjumpers66

Jul. 27, 2009, 03:11 AM

Good deal.

Be prepared for a compromised foal. Once she foals, save the placenta for your vet to examine. Probably wouldn't hurt to run a CBC when you do your IgG.

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 03:16 AM

YankeeLawyer

Jul. 27, 2009, 03:34 AM

I've already been prepared for a compromised foal just because of her poor nutrition, until just recently! And she is so small.... I just can't imagine that the baby is a good size! I'm just praying that everyone is alive... we can deal with the rest when it gets OUT!!! I just can't decide if I should continue going back to the barn tonight or not? I hate to bother her so much, but I want to be sure to be there in case she has a thick placenta and the baby needs help! UGH.... the things we do for horses!!!! LOL

Personally, I would be back in the barn. My mares have foaled with far fewer signs of imminent delivery than she is presenting. (One of mine this year did not bag up until hours before she foaled, and was not showing any signs of delivery approaching other than the fact she paced a little bit in her paddock that morning, which is unusual for her). And based on what you have said, this mare might need help when she does deliver. I would just sit in the barn quietly and listen in order to avoid disturbing her as much as possible.

GOOD LUCK!

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 03:38 AM

well, i think i'm going to try and get an hour or 2 of sleep and then head back up there. I"m so tired but so nervous. I dont even know if I will sleep but I feel like I could! haha. I just want to give this foal every chance possible to make it, especially now that I know it's alive in there! :o) Thanks for the advice. I'll keep everyone posted as my LONG nite goes on!

Sugarbrook

Jul. 27, 2009, 08:18 AM

UPDATES?? Please let us know.

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:06 AM

Update is that she finished off the rest of the night pretty quiet but continued with the discharge. Baby was very active most of the night. I'm getting ready to bath her and take her to the vet. I"ll let everyone know what the vet says. I'm crossing my fingers, toes and eyes that this foal is gonna make it!

2hsmommy

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:28 AM

Crossing everything I can for the little mare!

alliekat

Jul. 27, 2009, 12:12 PM

Sending jingles that everything is OK. And good for you to help this poor girl out. We rescued a mare this past year that had no prenatal care and was under nourished with a very bad skin condition, who foaled a big and healthy filly. I and hoping the same for your girl!

Sunnydays

Jul. 27, 2009, 12:20 PM

I'd be watching her full-time, and have everything ready to assist delivery. At almost day 330, she is within the normal (320+ days) range for foaling.
Good luck.

maybedog

Jul. 27, 2009, 07:27 PM

Any update after being seen by the vet?

misita

Jul. 27, 2009, 07:47 PM

Jingles and prayers for healthy mare and foal from CA. and for you to get some rest soon. :)

Cowgirl Lindz

Jul. 27, 2009, 09:11 PM

Sending my prayers

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:20 PM

UPDATE:
We went to the vet today at 11:00am. He agreed that the mucousy discharge was her mucous plug. So, we are on for a delivery this week!!! :o) He gave her a 3.5 on body condition (poor) and has completely changed and added to her diet to help her and the baby out... tons of supplements, etc. He also put her on a paste to help bring her colostrum in. Her placental wall is not thickened and there is no infection or meconium floating around. Baby was active and strong during the ultrasound....happily pushing the wand out of the vets hand! haha
So, it's gonna be another long night of keeping my eye on her. Although, I don't think she will go tonight, we do have a big storm rolling in and I know that usually effects my normal mares foaling dates. So, I"m sure I will be on here alot tonight. Keep me company if you want! :o) Thanks for all the prayers.... THEY WORKED! :o)
ps - although her body condition was low, he could tell that was I have been doing has helped her and we are on the up 'n' up!

Blacktree

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:32 PM

What a great update! I'll leave my fingers crossed a little longer, hoping to hear that all goes well and you have a healthy baby soon- :)

tucktaway

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:33 PM

Good job and good luck!!!!!!

Sugarbrook

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:35 PM

I am keeping up the good wishes for a safe delivery. I know all of us will await an update. sandy

alliekat

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:51 PM

I am so glad to hear everything went well today. We will also keep sending well wishes.

Beethoven

Jul. 27, 2009, 10:56 PM

Glad the foal is doing well. Wonder if the mare is in such bad condition due to lack of good nutrition in the first place and then giving everything she had to the baby. I hope you have a safe and easy delivery!

ahf

Jul. 27, 2009, 11:25 PM

I'm very relieved that the foal seems active, the placenta is not thickened and everything looks to be on track.

One thing I do want to mention...and I bet your vet mentioned this when he/she gave you a new feeding program...is that the mare's nutritional needs are high now - but nothing like her needs will be when her milk comes in and she's lactating. ANd since she's already a 3.5 you have a very tall and difficult order just to maintain her at that body score through the foals' third month. Not to mention you are trying to switch her to a different program at a critical time.

If she doesn't foal tonight, I'd locate some milk replacer tomorrow near you in case you need it to supplement what she can give him. It may take a couple of days for the DOmperidome the vet gave you to kick in. Actually, you may want to talk to your vet about supplementing him regardless - take some stress off the mare. It's not easy to get them (foals) to swing both ways (nipple and bucket) but it can happen.

You are a good person to take this on - and I'm jingling for all three of you!

libertyfarm

Jul. 27, 2009, 11:41 PM

We did talk very briefly about the milk replacement issue, but he was hopeful that her milk would come in BEFORE she has this baby and kinda see how it all goes at first! It absolutely blows my mind how much I"m feeding her. There is no one in their right mind that could have convinced me to feed ANY of my horses this much in one meal....EXCEPT FOR THE VET! I called him back after preparing her dinner and was like "are you SURE these numbers are right?" He assured me that I was right and OK to feed her the amount I fed! haha. I"m a colic worrier and the amount of grain she's on just absolutely freaks me out! I'll keep my fingers crossed that all goes well and we may need to try the milk replacer route to help mama along! I know we aren't in the clear yet, but I feel so relieved compared to last night.

libertyfarm

Jul. 28, 2009, 12:56 AM

Ok, I"m headed to the barn for the first check of the night! I"ll keep you all posted!

Equilibrium

Jul. 28, 2009, 12:59 AM

Donella

Jul. 28, 2009, 01:10 AM

If she doesn't foal tonight, I'd locate some milk replacer tomorrow near you in case you need it to supplement what she can give him.

I agree with this. Even if her milk comes in good, she had not been on a good nutritional program and her milk may very easily be poor in nutritional quality even if she is milking well. A bit of supplementing with the normal nursing should be great. I would also think of some foal aid or rejuvinaide at about a week old.

So glad to hear that all is on track, good luck with the foal watch!:)

libertyfarm

Jul. 28, 2009, 01:42 AM

So Here's the update:
She NEVER lays down, but she has clearly been down in the past 2 hours. All her veins are bulging and she is sweating and breathing heavy, but just standing in one place. It's not hot here. There is a cool breeze. She's not eating her hay! Her vulva is alot more loose than normal. So, Looks like I'll be back in an hour and a half! Keep u posted!

Donella

Jul. 28, 2009, 01:59 AM

Sounds like she is definately ready. I would stay very close!:)

libertyfarm

Jul. 28, 2009, 03:52 AM

I just returned from the barn and she is actually fairly quiet. She was laying down sleeping, no longer sweating of heavy breathing....so, i'm not sure? I"ll check once more at 530am. Going to sleep for a couple hours now. Nite Nite

Puddin Pie

Jul. 28, 2009, 08:21 AM

Morning check?

2hsmommy

Jul. 28, 2009, 08:52 AM

Hoping all is good!

AnotherRound

Jul. 28, 2009, 05:29 PM

I hope no news today means she went and all went well.

titansrunfarm

Jul. 29, 2009, 09:17 AM

I hope no news is good news :)

libertyfarm

Jul. 29, 2009, 10:18 PM

Sorry for the delay in updates! I had to go out of town for 36 hours and had someone else watching over her. She still has not gone yet but has some bloody discharge and is dripping milk like crazy. I"m crossing my fingers for tonight. She's bedded down in straw and asking to be fed every 30 minutes. hahahaha!

stoicfish

Jul. 30, 2009, 12:16 AM

It's all the excitement sans the stress when hearing/watching someone else go through it. Best of luck to the little guy!

libertyfarm

Jul. 30, 2009, 03:32 AM

I just came in from sitting stall-side for 2 hours. She's been acting very different....staring at her sides, sometimes nipping at them, swishing her tail violently, backing up to walls and rubbing her butt! Then she laid down and rolled for a while, then fell asleep, then rolled some more. I don't know.....would she just have the dang thing already. I"m going on night 4 of no sleep. How much longer am I gonna be able to run on Empty? haha

Dressage_Diva333

Jul. 30, 2009, 03:36 AM

Is there any way you can hook up a camera? You still don't get any sleep, but at least you don't have to go out to the barn so often :)

I've found the camera to be invaluable this year... I was still sleep very sleep deprived, but at least I was comfortable.

Good luck! I hope she gets this over with for you soon!

libertyfarm

Jul. 30, 2009, 03:49 AM

I would love to hook up a camera and I've promised myself that next year that will definately have to happen, but I dont own one so it's a little late now! haha

libertyfarm

Jul. 30, 2009, 08:48 AM

2hsmommy

Jul. 30, 2009, 11:28 AM

Aww, I'd come and sit a spell, but I'm a bit to far away.

Good luck!!

Kyzteke

Jul. 30, 2009, 12:34 PM

So, after another LONG nite of little to NO sleep, we still have no baby! I swear she's just messing with my mind! I have a huge microbiology test tomorrow and I can't imagine how I'm going to get thru it after being at the barn again all night tonight! UGH! Well, I"m off for another nap. Talk to you all soon.

Why don't you just start testing the milk for Ca+ & pH? It would save you alot of missed sleep. Personally I've had dozens of foals & only know it to be off twice -- and in both those cases it was by 24-48 hrs.

Most mare who are pregnant & in poor condition DO have healthy foals. All the mare's resources go towards the pregnancy/foal. Instead, it is the MARE, who sometime down the road, will suffer from her period of insufficent nutrition.

Equine Reproduction

Jul. 30, 2009, 02:18 PM

He also put her on a paste to help bring her colostrum in.

I suspect that this is Domperidone, but check to make sure (it might also be Sulpride in which case the same things apply about which I write below).

In the event that Domperidone or Sulpiride are used to promote mammary development it is important to understand that it is promotion of milk not colostrum production that is occurring. In fact, research (personal communication) indicates that mares that received Domperidone, while producing milk did not produce colostrum. It is therefore important that you check the foal for successful passive transfer of antibodies, and strongly recommended that this check be performed at about 9-12 hours post-foaling, which will allow oral supplementation of IgG's which is significantly cheaper than the plasma transfer that is required after 15 hours post-foaling. We would recommend that you have ensured an alternative source of IgG's - either colostrum or a commercial preparation - be available now so that you do not have to panic after the time of foaling in the event of low IgG levels being identified.

We do have an article about failure of passive transfer (http://www.equine-reproduction.com/articles/FPT.htm) on our website which might prove useful for you to read.

Good luck!

libertyfarm

Jul. 30, 2009, 02:26 PM

yes, the paste was domperidone and after just 3 doses she was dripping so the vet pulled her off of it. He is very worried about her milk/colostrum and is prepared for the worst. I'm just hoping for the best....but good God, would she please have the dang thing. I've been up for 4 nites straight with her. Last nite, she was really showing funny signs...laying down, stretching, growning, rubbing her butt on the walls, swishing her tail very violently and tail clamped to her butt, grunting, biting her sides! I'm just ready for it to be over so we can deal with the next step!:eek:

CrossWinds81

Jul. 30, 2009, 04:36 PM

If it's any help, my mare did the same thing about 5 days before she actually foaled...i would have sworn she was going to have her foal then, but now I am thinking perhaps the foal was turning around to get into position near the birth canal...if the foal has to move around, that is one big task as there isn't much room in there to turn. Then of course, the morning she did decide to foal, she was quiet as can be, I let her out into her paddock and 45 min later I heard her groaning. Thank goodness she plopped down right behind her stall where I had her foaling kit waiting. I just had a friend pass things through the window. I was testing her Ca and pH...that night I swore she was having her foal her pH dropped to 6.4, but by the next morning it was back in the 7's. I figured we were really close anyway, so I just slept at the barn anyway...but the barn has fairly comfortable accomodations, so it wasn't a big deal...it might not be as attractive an idea in other barns, but with a mare that has been as compromised as this one sounds, I would put a misquito net over a cot if I had to. A baby monitor is very very helpful. I didn't have a surveilance camera, but a $20 baby monitor did the trick. You can hear them when they pace or groan when they get down, or urinate...almost more helpful I feel than a camera would have been...but i am a light sleeper too, so that has a lot to do with it as well.

I am so glad to hear the placenta was normal, that is a huge deal. It sounds like you are doing a very honorable job...best of luck to you!!! Remember to take pics! and look at the clock or your phone when it is born so that you know what time it happened. I didn't look at the time, and really wish I had...everything was well with in textbook, just time flies like crazy and by the time you're done doing all the little post partum routines you have no idea what time it is...Well, at least in my experience. Best!!!

Blacktree

Jul. 30, 2009, 04:56 PM

Sounds like things are getting very close - hang in there and keep us posted!

Summit Springs Farm

Jul. 30, 2009, 05:37 PM

Libertryfarm sounds like we're going to have to put you on supplements;)
Good Luck and pictures when possible.

libertyfarm

Jul. 30, 2009, 08:14 PM

Just got back from the barn. They said she's been laying down on and off all day and was uncontrollably leaking milk, but otherwise happy. I just gave her a bath and let her hang out in the sun for a while. It's so nice here... right about 75 degrees! Would be a beautiful and comfortable night for her to have this baby. Who knows when I will actually study for my test tonight. HAHA. Maybe I could convince my teacher to feel sorry for me! :confused:
Well, I"ll keep everyone posted. Going to get a bite to eat and then back to the barn! I have company tonight though, so that will be nice!

libertyfarm

Jul. 31, 2009, 08:16 AM

SHE'S KILLING ME YOU GUYS!!!!!! She was totally normal all night. Showed no signs of discomfort or change. The ONLY thing different she did ALL night was that she laid on her right side verses her left side, which she has done all week. UGH! Anyways, I'm off to study and hope my teacher lets me take my test late. I've GOT to get some serious sleep today! I"m not going thru one more breeding season without cameras and I'm not taking anymore poor mares at the LAST minute! :cry:

Equilibrium

Jul. 31, 2009, 12:21 PM

HEHEHE, you still won't get any sleep with a camera - just takes away that whole "she could be foaling now feeling"!:D

Terri

Laurierace

Jul. 31, 2009, 12:25 PM

No you won't get any sleep with the cameras but you sure can if you have Marestare. I have only foaled out one mare on marestare so far so I didn't really "trust" that I would be alerted. I ended up getting so many calls I couldn't believe it! I kept saying "thank you, I know" over and over again!
What I did do that was very helpful was have my Mom on the west coast take the nine to midnight shift so I could sleep from midnight to 3am here. That was very helpful as my mare tested in the do not leave unattended range on chemetrics for almost a week....

eyesontheground

Jul. 31, 2009, 02:04 PM

Good Luck libertyfarm! TGIF!! Maybe she will go tonight and you will have all weekend to catch up on sleep (and play with the baby!!)

NoDQhere

Jul. 31, 2009, 03:31 PM

I have a TV right next to my bed so it is easy to just "slightly" wake up, turn on the TV, check, go back to sleep, or throw on your clothes and RUN, while waking up all the way, of course:lol::lol::lol::lol:. It has worked well for us.

Good Luck with your girl, and bless you for taking her!

libertyfarm

Jul. 31, 2009, 11:36 PM

Just got back from the barn. Mare is as comfortable and happy as she could be! I'm so tired of waking up every hour - 2 hours! I wish she would just have this thing. The worst part is that the barn is not on my property. It's 2 miles down the road (and I know that's not far), but it's not as easy as stumbling out to the barn with one eye open to check on her. I actually have to wake up and DRIVE there! Please PRAY AND BEG that she will go SOON!

libertyfarm

Jul. 31, 2009, 11:37 PM

Can someone give me an overview of how to do the PH with the milk? Is it just regular PH sticks like you use for a pool? Is it effected by the domperidone she was on?

alliekat

Aug. 1, 2009, 07:16 AM

Can someone give me an overview of how to do the PH with the milk? Is it just regular PH sticks like you use for a pool? Is it effected by the domperidone she was on?

I am not sure if the milk will be affected, but here is a link to all you need to know. You can get them at Walmart/Lowes for about 10 bucks. You can get the one that has calcium/hard water and Ph. I found them to be invaluable with our rescue pregnant mare that we were not sure of her due date.
Good Luck!!
http://www.chronicleforums.com/Forum/showthread.php?t=140453

VirginiaBred

Aug. 1, 2009, 07:26 AM

Been keeping an eye on this. Good luck and know we're all with you!

VirginiaBred

Aug. 1, 2009, 09:58 AM

Update???

libertyfarm

Aug. 1, 2009, 11:08 AM

Absolutely nothing! Although she did seem to lay down a ton last night and really push all of her straw up on the sides,which makes me think that she was doing alot of repositioning last night. But who knows! At this point I feel like I know nothing and it could be 6 more monthes before she has this thing! hahaha

dbaygirl

Aug. 1, 2009, 12:13 PM

wOW, she is taking a really long time. In my limited experience, once the tail swishing and sweating starts that's pretty much foaling time. Perhaps her body is going through so many changes right now, the nutrition is hitting her big time and it's going to take a little longer than usual because of previous condition. I pray her baby is born healthy and strong. Hang in there! I know what's like to be there night after night when you don't even live there. Try to get some sleep while others watch for you. Sounds like it could be any minute now.

I'm editing to add that when my mare had her first foal, I think she held off for many nights because she knew I was watching, so I positioned myself further and further away from her shelter and left all the lights off until she thought I was sleeping (in my truck...sigh) and that's when she finally started foaling. I heard the sounds, rushed over, turned the lights on and once she started she couldn't stop. :-) They really do like their privacy..some of them. How do you spell RELIEF?? Good luck.

libertyfarm

Aug. 2, 2009, 02:44 AM

Once again, It's almost 2am on my 7th night of foal watch and NADA! I'm gonna reach in and get it myself, I SWEAR! But I do have to say that her, or more so the baby, is definately GROWING! Her stomach has gotten SOOO big this week and she is filling out all over, so maybe her body decided that the increased nutrition was worth holding onto the baby for a while! Who knows?

Muleskick

Aug. 2, 2009, 03:17 AM

You just may be a little early on your watch, most mares not all, go between 330 to 350 days. To bad you don't know her most seem to have a pattern of the number of days and seldom stray from the same time each year, again not all. Good luck hope she goes soon so you can get some rest.

libertyfarm

Aug. 2, 2009, 11:13 AM

She doesn't have a "normal" time because she's only had one other foal and itr was 2 monthes early, stillborn, last year! She is at day 331!
The only reason I went on foal watch so soon is because the vet told me to. He was shocked that she had no milk and was shocked that she looked so small but she was showing so many signs already and had lost her mucous plug! She's comfortable and happy today!

Home Again Farm

Aug. 2, 2009, 11:31 AM

It is really a shame that she was given Domperidone. That will keep you from being able to predict parturition with milk testing. Hoping all goes well. I do not envy you on this foal watch. It may be a long one. Good luck!!! :yes:

Tango14

Aug. 2, 2009, 11:52 AM

Liberty if you can, make sure you feed her about 4 or 5 small meals per day instead of 2 or 3. Even my very well looked after mares are on 4 or 5 a day late in pregnancy as they lack the room they once had. And most of mine are pretty easy keepers, but 2pds spread out over the day and night is so much better for them. It's something you probably already know, but just in case.

Very good advice. A mare that hasn't been properly fed throughout her gestation will have even less ability to be able to eat a large meal so spreading it out over as many as is practical for you is a great idea. That way she gets to digest it easier and her gut doesn't get overloaded (colic / bellyache). Another tip is to give Probiotics with every feed.

I hope she has it soon, for your sake!!! Sleep deprivation is NO fun!

libertyfarm

Aug. 2, 2009, 12:36 PM

So, some people were telling me to test her PH in her milk. I asked if the Domperidone would effect it and they didn't know. So, are you saying YES, it does effect it and I can't test PH?
She has been being fed 5-6 meals a day. I feed her around 8am, noon, 5pm, 10pm, and 2am, give or take some!
She's gained significant amounts of weight this week!

libertyfarm

Aug. 3, 2009, 10:13 AM

STILL NOTHING! I only checked on her once last night. My body is giving up. It's refusing to wake up to the alarm now and I feel like I'm in a coma when I finally get to sleep. Oh well, we all have to listen to our bodies sometimes! She looked really uncomfortable this morning when I fed breakfast but was still excited to eat! When I checked on her at 2am, both teats were SPRAYING all their milk in the straw. Hope her colostrum doesn't end up on the floor!?!? :confused:

Home Again Farm

Aug. 3, 2009, 10:18 AM

The one time I did Domperidone in 2001, I was cautioned that once it was started milk tests would no longer be useful. As Equine Repro wrote earlier in this thread Domperidone brings in milk, not colostrum.

From the Chemetrics milk test page:

The suplement domperidone can increase the calcium level of the mare's milk causing inflated calcium test results.

Perhaps PH testing would still work. Anyone know?

Laurierace

Aug. 3, 2009, 10:20 AM

I think there is a good chance she won't have any colostrum anyway due to the domperidone. Add that to your list of things to worry about and be ready to give plasma. Sorry! No one ever said rescue was easy.

2hsmommy

Aug. 3, 2009, 02:29 PM

Anything yet?

libertyfarm

Aug. 3, 2009, 05:39 PM

It's blistering hot today and supposed to be even hotter tomorrow. She has just been spraying a ton of milk and sweating. She has developed these huge hives on her back that I"m not sure where they are from. She was biting at her sides alot around breakfast time this morning, but otherwise she is just as normal as they can be. I wish we wouldn't have given her the Domperidone. I think the vet paniced and jumped at it, but after just 2 doses she was FLOWING AND FULL! I think she would have been fine without it...he just really thought the baby was coming sooner than this. I only went up one last night, to try and throw her off. I'll do the same tonight...hoping to make her think I'm not checking on her anymore! I'll keep everyone posted. The part that sucks is that I leave for Cali on Thurs for a week and there is NOTHING I can do about it. There is NO one to foal watch her at night once I leave!!!!

camohn

Aug. 3, 2009, 06:27 PM

Is there a vet facility you can leave her at to foal out when you go out of town if she has not foaled by Thursday? Or a breeding farm??

libertyfarm

Aug. 3, 2009, 06:35 PM

there is, but honestly, this mare is breaking my bank as it is! i'm not sure i can handle putting her at the vets now too~

VirginiaBred

Aug. 3, 2009, 07:08 PM

You definitely need to take her somewhere to foal. She's too risky. And the foal definitely is.

stoicfish

Aug. 3, 2009, 07:42 PM

there is, but honestly, this mare is breaking my bank as it is! i'm not sure i can handle putting her at the vets now too~
Well, this year I"ve offered to help a friend who has a 17 year old TB mare who is malnourished and has had no prenatal care what so ever.

I don't think it is your finacial responsibility, is it? Your friend should provide care for the mare. Not judging, but when a person buys a horse they need to have the resources to properly keep them. By giving the domperidone, the vet has made it nessisary for someone to be there soon after foaling. I think the vet jumped the gun a bit.
I am too far away to help, unless you have a camera? ;)

FindersKeepers

Aug. 4, 2009, 08:44 AM

I'm hooked on this thread, waiting for the outcome. Any news from last night?

libertyfarm

Aug. 4, 2009, 11:10 AM

NOTHING! I'm losing my patience!

VirginiaBred

Aug. 4, 2009, 02:42 PM

Have you made arrangements to send her somewhere else?

libertyfarm

Aug. 4, 2009, 03:01 PM

No! As of right now, I"m crossing my fingers that she will have it tonight or tomorrow night. I'm going to be SOOO upset if I don't get to witness this baby when its born, after all this hard work! :o( But I am calling in a few favors to some local friends, to see if they will help with foal watch while I"m gone! I also have a vet coming out tomorrow that is looking as some other horses. I may ask him about sewing in one of those monitors on her vulva so that a vet is paged... I"ll also ask him how much it would cost to put her at his place. But I'm almost positive that I've been quoted at $80 a day before.... I'm gonna be gone for 8 days! OUCH!!!! I just went up to pick her stall and feed her lunch. Everything looks the same except today she was acting as though she was STARVING, when usually she just picks at her grain slowly! Nothing too exciting....blah!

Cataluna

Aug. 4, 2009, 03:11 PM

Where on earth has the owner been throughout all of this?? :confused:

VirginiaBred

Aug. 4, 2009, 03:48 PM

Would these friends be prepared to deal with a serious situation should one occur? That foal is gonna need some quick help.

SmartAlex

Aug. 4, 2009, 04:03 PM

I can't believe this baby isn't out YET!

libertyfarm

Aug. 4, 2009, 08:29 PM

I just got the owner to agree to put her at the vets to be watched while I"m out of town. I found a vet that is much more reasonable on his prices. I had to scare him a bit, but he woke up! YAY! I feel much better! I'l still be on watch tonight and then she will go to the vets tomorrow afternoon.

Hiddenacresmi

Aug. 4, 2009, 08:51 PM

wow.. just saw this thread. You have your hands full. Good luck and keep us posted. Hope the vet isn't too far away.

libertyfarm

Aug. 4, 2009, 11:00 PM

The vet is just 2 miles down the road~

libertyfarm

Aug. 4, 2009, 11:34 PM

....I"m headed to the barn for her late night feeding and first check of the night! I"ve cut back ALOT on my checks. I was going at 10pm, 12am, 2am, 4am and 6am. Now I"m only going at 11pm and 3am, then returning around 8am for breakfast. She is also getting fed each time I come to visit, so she is getting 5 meals a day! My body just couldn't do the every 2 hours anymore, plus I'm not seeing many changes or weird behaviors in her these days. She will get shipped to the vet and all settled in tomorrow. I haven't talked details with him, but I'm hoping that maybe he does the webcam's! I would be so excited if i could watch online while in california! I"ll keep you all posted!:D

titansrunfarm

Aug. 5, 2009, 02:21 AM

This is becoming my nightly routine:
Check on horses, still got all 4 legs, masks still on, water good, need a cookie or a snuggle?
Make tea and have a quick snack,
Check email,
Check to see if the libertyfarm foal is on the ground yet,
Wash up
Go to bed
:)

Indy-lou

Aug. 5, 2009, 03:29 AM

I just tuned in. This is worse than any soap opera. Now I have to know how this foaling turns out.

libertyfarm

Aug. 5, 2009, 09:15 AM

I"m sorry that I'm stressing you guys out....believe me, I'm feeling it too! Well, I"m about to call the vet and let him know that we are headed his way today and make sure that all arrangements are prepared. I'll let you know if I find anything out about webcams!

libertyfarm

Aug. 5, 2009, 03:46 PM

So, I was just reading back over all of this thread and realized that I never updated you guys on her age.... I was told that she is approximately 17yo, but later found out that she is 21 going on 22 yo. Poor girl! This is TOO old to be just starting a broodmare life. She was a brilliant childrens hunter back in the day and the owner has agreed that after this entire thing is over with, he would like to let the mare live her life out with my 4yo daughter, teaching her the ropes and adoring each other! I LOVE IT!

Christa P

Aug. 5, 2009, 04:05 PM

When my TB mare had her first she dripped milk for 2 WEEKS with me getting up during the night. When does she FINALLY foal - 8:15 am :lol::lol:.

I hope she has it soon.

Christa

libertyfarm

Aug. 5, 2009, 05:14 PM

We are headed to the vet to get her settled in. They do not have webcams but she will have a foal alert inserted! I"m hoping he will take pics on his cell for me and send them to me. I"ll post one more update tonight when we get back, and after that I"m not real sure how many updates I will get from the vet until the foal has arrived. But believe me, you all will be the first to hear! Wish her luck!

Home Again Farm

Aug. 5, 2009, 06:06 PM

Best of luck!! I am so glad that she will be in good hands while you are away. Bless you for caring.

stoicfish

Aug. 5, 2009, 06:55 PM

She was a brilliant childrens hunter back in the day and the owner has agreed that after this entire thing is over with, he would like to let the mare live her life out with my 4yo daughter, teaching her the ropes and adoring each other! I LOVE IT!

That is happy news!! Hope the foaling goes well.

Hiddenacresmi

Aug. 5, 2009, 08:47 PM

this thread is getting addicting. OMG.. you are not going to update us often?!! eek:

eyesontheground

Aug. 5, 2009, 10:16 PM

If you can't update us every 6 hours I dont know what I will do! :confused:

We will just have to make up happily ever after stories to keep ourselves entertained!!

Indy-lou

Aug. 6, 2009, 12:07 AM

I feel better knowing she is at a clinic and being observed 'round the clock now. Glad I didn't know her age before you took her to the clinic!

libertyfarm

Aug. 6, 2009, 01:08 AM

The foal alert was inserted successfully and Missy settled in nicely. I"m off to bed, even though I only have 5 hours to sleep because I have to get up and take that test that I never took last week...then I'l be on the road to California! I will do my best to update each day, as long as the vet is giving me updates! Thank you all so much for your support.
Knowing my luck, she will have the damn thing tonight! hahaha
Goodnight!

alliekat

Aug. 6, 2009, 09:27 AM

WOW 5 hours to sleep, I bet that almost seems like a lot after the lack of sleep. Good luck on your test and have a safe trip!!
Sending jingles to your mare!!!

VirginiaBred

Aug. 7, 2009, 07:02 AM

Looking for an update...........

Sugarbrook

Aug. 7, 2009, 10:56 PM

Its just about 11pm on Fri. UPDATES????

Carol Ames

Aug. 8, 2009, 12:01 AM

You're getting great advice! something is definitely NOT :(RIGHT!:no: is there someone who can "spell you" tonight? good you have the vet coming tomorow:yes:

Timex

Aug. 8, 2009, 07:24 PM

No updates here, have I missed something? Did she pop YET??

Luckydonkey

Aug. 9, 2009, 12:04 AM

I think the OP was going to be out of town, an the mar was at the vets...OP is not the owner of the mare...

juniormom

Aug. 9, 2009, 05:37 PM

Still anxiously awaiting an update..........know op is out of town. Just hoping that "no news" is "good news." :yes:

vita_impavida

Aug. 11, 2009, 07:28 PM

I am very anxious to hear how the mare did? I hope everything went as best as possible.

libertyfarm

Aug. 11, 2009, 08:41 PM

I'm so sorry for the lack in updates. I've had awful Internet access up here in the mountains but just found someone with good access and an iPhone. So here it goes.... We had a brown and white Dutch pinto colt born in the early morning hours of Monday. He only weighed about 50 lbs and was very weak, he wanted to nurse but couldn't stand without assistance. He was given plasma and a bag of fluids. They started milking the mare and he took to the bottle well. After 3 bottle feedings, he was determined to stand and after many attempts and bloody scratches, he succeeded. By 5pm on Monday he was able to stand with little assistance and nurse for about 5 min b4 losing balance. The tech stayed the nite with marr and goal to assist with feedings every hour! By this morning he was like a normal foal....he's can get up with no assistance and is very mobile. He's also nursing 30-40 min per feeding on his own. He did have to recurve another plasma transfusion today bc his igg levels r still low but otherwise he's great. He's super small but otherwise healthy! I don't return home til thur pm and I can post the pics then. I have many forwarded to my phone. Mom, Missy, is doing great! She's being s perfect mom! Colts registered name was decided b4 his arrival.... Mismarked! (named after mom, Missy, and dad, markie!)
we still don't have a barn name though and I'm open to options! He's been a fighter the whole way thru and deserves a powerful name! Well that's all I've got for now! I'll borrow this iPhone again tomorrow for more updates. Sorry for the suspense!

misita

Aug. 11, 2009, 09:04 PM

Congratulations on your baby and I'll continue jingles for the little guy. Poor little thing. That's awful tiny.

Laurierace

Aug. 11, 2009, 09:08 PM

Hopefully that was a typo as there is no way he should be nursing for 30-40 minutes. Maybe three minutes? Anyway congratulations. I know they both owe their lives to you.

Sugarbrook

Aug. 11, 2009, 09:10 PM

Such a wonderful update. I have followed this thread from the beginning. How about Markie for his barn name?
And BTW, Congratulations!!!!!!!!!:D

titansrunfarm

Aug. 11, 2009, 09:12 PM

Cool! We finally have a foal! now I sure do hope he does well and grows up strong and healthy. Congrats!

VirginiaBred

Aug. 11, 2009, 09:25 PM

Oh wow. I've been so worried. Please keep us posted and prayers for the baby.

Indy-lou

Aug. 12, 2009, 12:05 AM

So glad to hear the update, but still a little worried about him. Keep us posted please. Looking forward to those frolicking foal fotos.

Luckydonkey

Aug. 12, 2009, 12:19 AM

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!! Can't wait to see the baby pics!

2hsmommy

Aug. 12, 2009, 10:55 AM

Huge congrats! I hope all continues to go well for him and momma!

eyesontheground

Aug. 12, 2009, 09:17 PM

Yay!! Congrats!!! Can't wait to see pics! Hope you are having fun up in the mountains!

Centuree

Aug. 12, 2009, 11:01 PM

So good to hear that so far, the little guy is doing fairly well. I know he's not out of the woods yet, but am hopeful and am looking forward to seeing the baby pics.

libertyfarm

Aug. 12, 2009, 11:57 PM

Awful news......foal crashed last nite! He became neurological, couldn't get up or do anything on his own. He was colicking and on the vurge of seizing! The vet said there was nothing he could do! He was on antibiotics and fluids! We put him out of his misery around 1am! I'm happy he's not suffering anymore but I'm selfishly upset that I never got to meet him. The mare is having a hard time with the loss and grieving pretty hard. I'll be home tomorrow nite and can't wait to just sit and grieve with Missy! I feel so bad for her. She doesn't deserve losing foals 2 years in a row. So, I guess that's the end of this thread! ;(. I may have a few questions when I get home and settled! Other than that, goodnite!

Laurierace

Aug. 13, 2009, 12:03 AM

I am so sorry, you both tried so hard. Godspeed little one. Hugs to you.

misita

Aug. 13, 2009, 12:13 AM

So sorry to hear this. How terribly sad.

I had a mare whose lost 2 foals in a row; last years and this years. Her only pregnancies. After losing the foal this year she developed ulcers fairly bad. She's doing well now but still on ulcer meds. Not trying to add to your stress but losing the babies is really hard on them.

Jingles and prayers for you and Missy.

Indy-lou

Aug. 13, 2009, 01:23 AM

Oh no, I am so sorry. So sorry for your loss and your heartbreak and the mare's too. Thank you though, for the time and effort you gave to see this through. This was so hard to read about.

juniormom

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:47 AM

I am so sorry..........you worked so hard on this!! I know this doesn't help much, but just know that you did everything you could and that you should have no regrets. Sometimes it helps me when I am in those situations to at least know I really tried. It doesn't make it any easier at the moment, but I believe it does down the road when you think about it and ponder the situation. Hugs to you! :)

stoicfish

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:55 AM

Do you still get to keep the mare? Because that would still be a happy ending for her.
I think losing the foal is sad, but since the person who bred her wasn't taking proper care of her, maybe this is a blessing.
I would still love to see pictures of your new mare in her happy home!

eyesontheground

Aug. 13, 2009, 07:54 PM

OH NO! I am so sorry to hear this :cry:

Hugs to you and Missy

VirginiaBred

Aug. 13, 2009, 08:30 PM

I'm so, so sorry. :(

Carol Ames

Aug. 13, 2009, 09:20 PM

OH NO!:cry:, i AM SO TERRIBLY sorry,:cry::(:cry: You certainly did everything possible; sometimes the road ahead is just too difficult to drag additional problems with us; It sounds like this colt was simply not :no:meant to live :cry:with us and other horses; . I, too, hope you are able to have Missy stay with :yes:you , and get the prenatal care she :yes:needs/ deserves; if her owner gives you any trouble:mad:; I hope her poor condition was the result of lack of knowledge:confused:, and not intent.:no:; should she give you any problems, give her this thread to take home and read:yes::o:cry:!

Edgewood

Aug. 13, 2009, 09:24 PM

I am so, so sorry. :sadsmile::sadsmile::sadsmile: You did everything that you could...Jingles for the mare!

libertyfarm

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:02 PM

Thank you all so very much for all the love, support and advice I gained from posting here. I just got back from the airport and the vet clinic is locked up tight, so I'm unable to go see Missy. I have class first thing in the morning, so I won't be able to go and pick Missy up until later in the afternoon, but I did just speak to the owner and in his words he said "well at least you and your daughter have gained a horse out of it!" I think he is a little upset because he has over a $1000 bill to pay for and nothing to show for it, but oh well. I was really afraid he may take the mare back and breed her again, but he didn't even have that as an option in his mind! I can't wait to get her back home and treat her like the princess he deserves to be treated like. She has got to be so depressed and feeling miserable....she needs all the love, hugs, kisses and treats that she can possibly get right now! :cry:
I will take pics of her once I get her home. I have no idea what she looks like..... may not look good, ya know?
And once I figure out how to post pics on here, I still feel it necessary to post the pics of the colt! I want everyone to see his progressive pics from beginning to end, bc he was a fighter and he tried all he could until his little heart just gave up! He was so tiny and so underdeveloped but just so absolutely precious! If anyone can walk me thru how to post, please let me know. Thanks to all of you again!

ElegantExpressionsFarm

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:11 PM

I am SO sorry for your loss!! Luckily for Missy she has you still in her life!! She is going to thrive and be the princess she deserves under your care and love!! Again, sorry for the loss, that would be so hard!! :( Jingles!!

crosscreeksh

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:23 PM

I am so sorry for the sad ending to your story. It's hard to lose a baby/horse when you've been through so much together. I'd be interested to hear what the vets say caused his "crash and burn" at the end. We lost a BIG, strong, vigorous colt last month - different scenario, but same ending. Healthy, hungry, strong and vigorous for 17 hours - then crashed and died within an hour with the vet doing everything she could. Same symptoms, colic which became violent and right on the edge of seizing. Please let us know what the vets think the cause was. Hugs. Jackie

libertyfarm

Aug. 13, 2009, 10:26 PM

The vet really felt that the foal was just so weak and underdeveloped fromt he beginning, that he just wasn't going to make it anyway. Although, I had all the hopes in the world he would! He said he showed every classic sign of being a dummy foal syndrome and very classic signs of a mare that had been on fescue. He's not sure why the colt was doing well for 12 hours and then crashed in 5 hours, but he said he just never felt like he was going to totally come around anways!:cry: