Fetal monitoring in horses is similar to the methods used for humans — ultrasound, EKG machines, and blood tests on unborns all are part of monitoring the health of the fetus. Advances in these areas for equines have allowed for detection of problem pregnancies, which in turn have allowed veterinarians to take precautionary measures before the foal is due.

By monitoring the well-being of the fetus, mares which are having problem pregnancies can be assisted before the pregnancy ends with a premature delivery or a sick foal, or worse yet, the abortion of the foal. As a general rule, anything that makes you worry about the mare’s health also should make you concerned with the health of the fetus.

According to Wendy Vaala, VMD, of Mid-Atlantic Equine Medical Center (Ringoes, N.J.), fetal well-being usually is checked during late pregnancy.

“Most mares I have looked at have been in the second half of pregnancy, particularly the last two months,” said Vaala