IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE A DUMMY FOAL

If you have questions about the health of a new foal, call your veterinarian immediately. He will be able to make an assessment and determine if the squeeze technique might be helpful, while keeping in mind the following guidelines from John Madigan, DVM:

• Foals respond best to the squeeze technique when they are less than three days old.

• Before attempting the squeeze technique, it’s important to be sure the foal is physiologically stable, with no rib fractures or signs of respiratory distress. During the squeeze, the foal must be carefully monitored to ensure he is reacting as expected.

• Signs of neonatal maladjustment syndrome can overlap with those of septicemia, metabolic problems, congenital defects and other causes of weakness that must be identified and addressed separately.

• An experienced handler is needed to hold the mare during the technique for the safety of all involved.