Dermot O’Sullivan
THE first thing I do pre-sales and before weaning is assess the mare. I check how much milk the mare has and how long it has been since she has foaled. The reason I do this is because the quality of a mare’s milk begins to decrease three months after foaling.
In order for the foal to continue getting nutrients from the mare I will give the mare good quality stud cubes every day while she is lactating.I start to creep feed my foals from three months of age up until weaning, feeding foal pellets and Connolly’s Red Mills Grocare stud balancer. Stud balancer eliminates the need to add vitamin and mineral supplements to the foal’s diet.The only thing I will add to the foal’s diet, pre-sale, is some high-quality oil. Oil aids the foal’s digestive system and helps their skin and coat condition. I believe it improves their overall appearance.Feed your foal little and often, at least twice a day, so that they get the most from their feed. Approximately one month prior to the sales I start to bring my foals in at night. The drop in temperature can be hard on a young foal and can make your job preparing for the foal sales more difficult. However, it is important to let the foals out every day for exercise. Be sure to assess your foal’s body condition on a weekly basis. This way you will have a good record of your foal’s development. Just keep in mind that an over-fed foal can lead to joint problems and will be less desirable in the sales ring.
