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nurse mare foals?!?!

2K views 13 replies 4 participants last post by  ponyboy 
#1 ·
Ok so maybe iv been living under a rock but I just today learned about nurse mare foals!! It makes me so sad. I can't believe people can be so heartless and cruel! Have any of you ever adopted one? I'm seriously tempted!
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#2 ·
I have one that just turned 7. We lost the first one and almost lost the 2nd. If you can adopt that would be great, but just make sure you are prepared for potential heart break and a lot of work. They are not easy.
 
#3 ·
Good for you! I bet it would be so heart breaking to lose one so little like that. Along with a lot of work I bet there are quite a few financial requirements involved. I'm seriously debating whether or not I should do it. I know I probably won't be able to until next spring so I think I'll spend this year learning and preparing myself. I was wanting to get a foal next spring anyway so what's better than rescue!

Just curious how would you say your nurse mare horse is personality and behavior wise compared to normal mother raised horses?
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#4 ·
He's pretty much the same as our other horses. However, we heard horror stories of overly spoiled nursemare foals so we set boundaries early on and ensured he was respectful of personal space. It was something we made sure to be extremely consistant with.
 
#5 ·
As far as personality goes, and temperament, it all depends on how they are raised. Set boundaries, teach them their manners, and don't be easy on them just because of their situation. They need leadership just like any "normal" foal.

Also, for a nurse mare foal, I would recommend putting them in with an older gelding or mare when they are strong enough (and healthy enough) to handle that sort of contact. It is good for them to have a "surrogate mommy" of sorts. Of course, you have to take care that the adult doesn't hurt the baby, but if it works out well, it is very beneficial for the foal since they have a role model of sorts to teach them the ropes, similar to what their mother would do.

I have heard it to be a rewarding experience, but don't make the mistake of spoiling the baby because they lost their mommy. They don't know any different and don't understand their plight. They will take advantage just like any other horse would.

Also, be prepared for some rocky roads. It is hard on a foal to not nurse their mommy, and although the milk replacers are very good, they are not always effective and can cause some issues with the foals. Expect some medical problems, lots of vet costs, and some unexpected dips in the road. If you do manage to get along without those issues, then it would be a great surprise, but be ready for a LOT of investment and time. Foals need to be fed often when they are that young, and that means a lot of sleepless nights for you.
 
#6 ·
Lakotababii those are some good things to consider thank you for your tips.

I don't wanna just jump into this before I really know what to expect. Sometimes my emotions make me impulsive! I just wish things like this weren't so "accepted"
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#7 ·
Lakotababii those are some good things to consider thank you for your tips.

I don't wanna just jump into this before I really know what to expect. Sometimes my emotions make me impulsive! I just wish things like this weren't so "accepted"
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Oh I know, I have been informed of the nurse mare foal thing for a while, same with PMU foals. They are on the back burner though, and not much attention is given to them. It is sad what people will do for money.
 
#10 ·
Last Chance Corral - YouTube

This is where I learned about the foals and probably where I'll get one from
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Last chance corral in ohio is an EXCELLENT rescue for these foals. They have been doing it for years, and are very good at what they do. I was going to recommend them as it was, so happy to hear you are thinking of getting one from them. They give them a good start to life and the best chance they can possibly have. I always said if I was going to get one, I would adopt from them.
 
#11 ·
Oh good! I thought they seemed pretty successful and knowledgeable I wish I lived closer I would totally volunteer there!! I also wish I was prepared to adopt now, they have a little filly I would LOVE to take home!
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#12 ·
Oh good! I thought they seemed pretty successful and knowledgeable I wish I lived closer I would totally volunteer there!! I also wish I was prepared to adopt now, they have a little filly I would LOVE to take home!
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Haha I know! I always think the same thing every time I look at the cute foals they have, but then I remind myself I am in no position to take one yet. Someday maybe :)
 
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