The Foal often begins to struggle to its feet within 10-15 minutes after birth. Most births are without incidence, and are extremely rewarding to everyone concerned. Some people equate tough bags that cannot be broken during birth with fescue grass that contains the endophyte fungus. It is certainly worthwhile to investigate the type of grass in your pasture and in hay that is being fed to pregnant mares. There is a new type of fescue that is said to be endophyte-free now and that may be worth considering.
Some breeders switch to alfalfa or timothy three months before the mare is due to foal.
Consult with feed and seed suppliers before planning or confirming your nutritional program. Breed only healthy, quality, mature miniature horse stock. Of course, wood chips may be cleaner and some people say that hay or straw can cause damage to the eyes as well. Straw covers a good deal more ground, but mares often eat the straw and can colic. If nothing else is available, newspapers might be an option to provide cleanliness and warmth.