27 August 2008 11:08
I’d like to put my mare in foal, and ideally I’d like the stud to keep the foal for me for the first three years.
I’ve found one stud 90 minutes from my home but would like somewhere closer. Also, what books can I read
to get more information on breeding?
Answer
By Your Horse
H.E Tutor Ellie Hoyes replies:
Most studs will keep the mare for a short time after covering, but many do not offer livery for the mare and foal after that. You may find that a good livery yard near the stud will be prepared to offer mare-and-foal boxes, and education for the youngster.
Search your local equestrian press and ask around at saddlers, feed merchants, competition centres and livery yards, as this might help you find a nearer stud. Make sure you visit the yard or stud and put a clear contract in place which outlines
each party’s responsibilities.
Some good breeding books include:
● Breeding the Competition Horse by John Rose and Sarah Pilliner.
● Breeding Horses by Mina Davies-Morel.
● Some sections of Horse and Stable Management by J Houghton Brown, Sarah Pilliner and Zoe Davies.
All three books are published by Blackwell, visit www.blackwell.co.uk