When Blessed Are the Brood Mareswas published in 1978, no other single source existed that contained such a wide range of information on the care of the breeding mare from mating, through gestation, to foaling and nursing, and on the care of the young horse. Now there is: the second edition of this classic. M. Phyllis Lose, V.M.D., internationally respected for her knowledge and expertise in equine medicine, has revised and updated her book throughout to take into account the improvements and changes that have taken place in equine pediatrics since Brood Mares was first published. Here now is the latest information on drugs, medications and immunizations and an all-new chapter on difficult births (dystocia). Dr. Lose explains the problems that can arise and how you can safely intervene and safeguard the well-being of the mare until the veterinarian arrives. She says that "problems encountered at any time can be solved in almost every case, if the owner or caretaker will learn what to avoid, how to prevent mistakes, and most important, when to summon the veterinarian." Even those with years of experience can still learn from this book, with its seventy-five all-new photographs and drawings. Dr. Lose's language is technical enough not to insult the professional breeder, yet simple enough for the first-time breeder to grasp. She speaks with unmistakable authority but also with compassion for the mare. "Cows and women are tough," she says, "mares are delicate." The dual goals of a successful birth and a well-cared-for mare and foal are more likely to be achieved when you have this extraordinary book giving you all the help you're likely to need.

Updated to reflect new information in equine pediatrics and difficult births.

The Howell Equestrian Library is a distinguished collection of books on all aspects of horsemanship and horsemastership. The nearly fifty books in print offer readers in all disciplines and at all levels of competition sound instruction and guidance by some of the most celebrated riders, trainers, judges and veterinarians in the horse world today. Whether your interest is dressage, show jumping or Western riding, or whether it's breeding, grooming or health care, Howell has a book to answer your needs. Get to know all the books in the Howell Equestrian Library; many are modern-day classics and have achieved the status of authoritative references in the estimation of those who ride, train and care for horses.

The Howell Equestrian Library

M. Phyllis Lose, V.M.D., has been practicing veterinary medicine, with a specialty in equine pediatrics, for more than thirty years. She has extensive experience with all breeds but especially the Thoroughbred. Patients at her equine hospital can recover within sight of Philadelphia Park's backstretch. Dr. Lose is the author of Blessed Are the Foals, Keep Your Horse Healthy and No Job for a Lady, her autobiography.

Acknowledgments.

Foreword.

1. By Way of Introduction.

2. Preparations.

3. The Elusive Term Mare.

4. The Three Stages of Labor: The Foal Arrives.

5. Dystocia and Its Various Forms.

6. The Neonatal Foal and the Postpartum Mare.

7. The Foal to Its Weaning.

8. Weaning--a Controversial Challenge.

9. Pediatric Problems.

10. A Closer Look at the Mare.

11. Fertility and Preparation for the Next Foal.

12. In Conclusion.

Glossary.

Index of Signs and Symptoms.

Index.