Preparations have begun here at Safe Harbor Stables to welcome our three new foals into the world. Our three mothers-to-be became pregnant prior to their rescue, and while we are firmly on the side of responsible breeding to do our part in minimizing America’s homeless horse population, we really can’t wait to hear the pitter-patter of little foal feet in the barn aisle. We don’t like to see unplanned pregnancies bringing new life into the world, but we’re happy that these three foals are being born into a community whose mission it is to look out for their well-being for the rest of their lives.
Last week we got our foaling stall set up. It was just in time, too, because that same day Asha started showing signs that she might be going into labor. Dr. Lewis from Rainland came out to examine her. She palpated Asha again and found that the baby was moving a little less than she would like, and its heartbeat was a little slower than she’d like. This is slightly concerning, but not reason for alarm at this point. It was recommended that we monitor her through the night and that it wouldn’t be surprising if she had her foal over the weekend. Dr. Lewis said that we could also just be seeing late-gestation colic symptoms, or gastric ulcers related to pregnancy.
This past weekend was our fist “baby watch” for Asha. It was an uneventful weekend. All of her potential pre-labor signs have subsided for now, but we’re prepared!
