This chapter reviews the seasonality and effect of photoperiod in mares and how, as clinicians, we can shorten the vernal transition period and improve our efficiency in getting mares in foal. Different protocols have been utilized to shorten the vernal transition, and each will be discussed. We will also examine endometritis in the mare. The role of biofilms in causing endometritis in our equine patients, and potential treatment plans, in particular breeding the dirty mare, will be reviewed. Finally, we will examine the effect of twin pregnancies in the mare, the most common cause of noninfectious abortion, and offer two management therapies for dealing with twinning in the mare.
Part of the book: Equine Science
Endometriosis is a serious, often irreversible disease of the mare. Often associated with endometritis, this chapter will review our current understanding of pathophysiology, etiology, diagnosis and possible treatments. Endometriosis is a disease complex typically seen in our older mare population. It is important that we understand that although the same term is used to describe a condition in our human patients, it is, however, not the same medical condition as seen in our equine patients. As this disease profile is irreversible with limited treatment options, it causes significant economic strain in our broodmare population.
Part of the book: Endometriosis
There is a complicated interplay between a number of hormones produced during the establishment and maintenance of the equine pregnancy and subsequent expulsion of the fetus at term. Any clinician involved in equine reproduction is required to have a thorough understanding of the endocrinology of the equine pregnancy. This allows the clinician the ability to monitor the viability of the pregnancy and intervene when problems occur. This chapter will review the main hormones produced during various phases of the equine pregnancy, which hormones can be utilized to monitor pregnancy viability and how and when to initiate parturition utilizing hormonal therapy.
Part of the book: Equine Science