How to Keep Your Pregnant Mare Comfortable Amidst Seasonal and Lighting Changes
Those who are familiar with horses sometimes describe mares as being polyestrous explains owner Richard D. Schibell . These animals often go through several heat cycles each year. However, the reproductive tracts of mares rarely cycle in the autumn and winter. The body chemistry of mares instinctually determines it is a bad idea to enter such a state. The mare’s temperature naturally decreases as the days shorten in the fall and winter months. Mares need about 16 hours of daylight along with eight hours of darkness to continue their reproductive functionality. Provide your mare with the proper environment and you will have done your part to prevent a premature estrous. Supplemental Lighting for Mares In some situations, it makes sense to use supplemental lighting for a mare. Though using artificial lighting is not a new technique, it is worth mentioning as it is quite effective. Lighting really will kick-start the mare’s cycle through m...