2200018 - Management of the Broodmare, Stallion and Foal

Course Description

Whether you are considering breeding horses as a business or simply wish to breed a foal or two from your favourite mare, there are many elements that require consideration before taking those first steps. Being a responsible breeder involves choosing the right mare and stallion, understanding what can go wrong and ensuring that the management of breeding stock does not compromise welfare. Producing a quality foal for optimal performance is more than creating a sound, structurally excellent animal; unwanted behavioural traits or responses to potential stressors are examples of additional factors that can shape the horse and impact performance. The domesticated horse is entirely dependent upon the human species for its care and management, hence, it is a horse owner's responsibility to be as well informed as possible and fully prepared to support equine health and ensure sound ethical decisions are made in line with good welfare practices.

The purpose of this course is to provide an understanding of effective broodmare, stallion and foal management and the procedure of producing quality foals while ensuring a sound understanding of welfare assessment and guidance for making good ethical decisions in relation to breeding and all of its processes.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

• Examine the concept of equine welfare and its relevance to national and international breeding and breeding practices, drawing on welfare frameworks and the Canadian Equine Code of Practice
• Demonstrate an understanding of mare and stallion reproductive systems, their structures and any physiological effects of pregnancy, health issues and diseases that may impact breeding
• Explain the various management practices of breeding mares, stallions and foals, considering how they may impact equine welfare and the importance of evidence-based practice
• Discuss the provision of feeding and the required nutrients to ensure optimal health for stallion, pregnant mares and the developing foal
• Rationalize the importance of responsible breeding and assessing behaviour and conformation when choosing breeding stock
• Describe the practices of natural covering, artificial insemination and embryo transfer
• Consider the impact of available technologies and modern facilities on equine welfare and breeding practices
• Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of evidence-based research and science in promoting positive welfare in the equine breeding industry

Course Topics

• An Introduction to Equine Reproduction
• Conformation and Behaviour
• The Stallion Reproductive System
• The Mare Reproductive System
• Management of the Broodmare and Stallion
• Mare Nutrition
• The Process of Breeding – Part 1
• The Process of Breeding – Part 2
• Foaling Part 1: Pregnancy
• Foaling Part 2: Foal Management – Birth to Weaning
• Weaning and Foal Handling
• The Growing Foal – Health and Disease

Assessment

Please note that the course assessment is subject to change.

Sponsoring Partner

• Equine Guelph

Note:

You do not need access to a horse or own your own horse to participate and be successful in this course.

Do you have more questions? Visit our program page Frequently Asked Questions or send us your question by completing the Request Information contact form.

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Diploma in Equine Studies : Electives
• Equine Science Certificate : Electives