What is a Dummy Foal?

[luvs2ridewbs]

I've heard the term passed around but really, what is it?

[faluut42]

a foal that is deprived of oxygen at birth

[luvs2ridewbs]

oh, so why do they call them Dummy foals?

[Laurierace]

Because the lack of oxygen causes brain damage that may be temporary or could be permanent. The brain damage causes them to not be able to act like normal foals ie standing and nursing normally.

[Schiffon]

Also occurs in births that seem to proceed normally, so there are cases that are thought to be related to placenta insufficiency and poor oxygenation in utero.

Not uncommonly, the foals do stand and nurse but then deteriorate neurologically on day 2 or 3. There are some physical signs like curved ears, soft coat and domed head that should stimulate one to watch the foal carefully during that time.

[dr j]

More than you ever wanted to know.... with pictures.

http://www.ivis.org/advances/Neonatology_Wilkins/wilkins_hie/IVIS.pdf