04 September 2008 11:53
My Welsh Mountain sec A mare has been in season for a month, with only a four-day break. I’ve always loved the idea of putting her in foal as she has great bloodlines but, since she’s a maiden, I’d decided I’d left it too late when she turned 15. She’ll be 17 this year, but still acts like a five-year-old. Is it really too late to put her in foal?
Answer
By Your Horse
Vet Gil Riley advises:
It’s great that your mare is in such good condition as a 17-year-old, you must be looking after her well. I’m pleased to be able to say that, in my opinion, she’s not too old to be put in foal for the first time. Although it’s not common for mares to be bred for the first time in their late teens, she would certainly not be unique.
I would advise that you ask your vet to give her a thorough check-up to ensure there are no health issues and then start to work on getting her in foal as soon as you can. As she’s that bit older she may not take first time and you don’t want to run out of breeding season.