We've heard funny, and not so funny stories, of rushes to the hospital when labor pains begin. Broodmare owners don't have to be concerned about a mad dash to the veterinary clinic, but veterinarians often have to make a midnight run to the broodmare farm. Foaling is a rapid process in mares. It's crucial that the foal be born within about 30 minutes after hard labor begins. So owners need to recognize the normal signs of foaling.
Most owners know when mares are due to foal.
Experienced owners keep records on each mares' specific foaling signs. We can define the classical tell-tell signs of approaching foaling. But, there will always be exceptions to these guidelines. So keep good records on each mare that foals this spring if you don't already have this information. Mares tend to follow the same foaling pattern year after year.