Miniature horses have a number of unique differences from their larger, full-size counterparts. Among them is that they seem to have a harder time getting out of the amniotic sac at birth. Miniature horse breeders commonly monitor their pregnant mares closely and prefer to be present at birth to assist if necessary. This can be done with a camera in the foaling stall, as well as halter alarms which alert the breeder that foaling is commencing.
In 2000, despite our being present minutes after the birth process began, a foal was born not breathing and with no heartbeat. We ripped open the sac and began CPR. We were able to get the heart beating again quickly by using cardiac massage. My husband and I then took turns breathing for the foal. The foal was named Pacific Justin Time. He is now one of our prized stallions. It was worth the effort to bring him back to life. Justin is producing beautiful foals.
It can take quite a while to get these foals to respond. But if you have a heartbeat, you are part way there. Believe me, I know how heart wrenching this is. I have been there, and not every foal can be saved, but you will not know if they can unless you try.
The information was published in The Horse Magazine, which is published by the American Association of Equine Practitioners. We have a copy that is laminated and placed on a clipboard in the foaling barn. I read it frequently during foaling season and have it in the barn as a quick reference guide should I need it. I am providing it here in hopes that more foals are saved because the breeders knew how to try to save the foal. It is important that the breeders know how to respond, as no veterinarian could possibly get there in time to help.
I hope you never have to use it, but keep this information close by just in case. Best of luck to you this, and every foaling season!Foal Resuscitation Information (CPCR)
