Manage foaling and post-foaling problems

Unit of competency Outline

Date retreived
22/07/2026 9:28 AM AWST

Whilst all efforts are made to provide accurate and timely information from the relevant source/documentation, please be aware that the information supplied may not be the most current version. The accuracy of the detail has not been confirmed by the Department and therefore should not be relied upon without first confirming the contents.

Unit of competency

National Code
RGRHBR402

State Code
OBB38

TGA Status
Current

DTWD Status
Approved

Current Release Number
1.00

Current Release Date
10/09/2019

View on TGA

State Implementation and Classification

Approved Date

22/11/2019

Field of Education

061103 - Veterinary Assisting

Original Release Date

22/11/2019

Nominal Hours

Description

This unit of competency describes the skills and knowledge required to attend to and manage problems with mares and foals during and after birth.The unit applies to individuals who use specialised horse knowledge and skills, have responsibility for a work activity, area or team, and provide and communicate solutions to a range of predictable and sometimes unpredictable problems in the horse breeding sector.No licensing or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.Work health and safety and animal welfare legislation relevant to interacting with horses applies to workers in this industry. Requirements vary between industry sectors and state/territory jurisdictions. Users are advised to check with the relevant authority for specific requirements.

Notes

Elements and Performance Criteria

1. Prepare the mare for foaling

1.1 Carry out a risk assessment for all activities working with pregnant mares and newborn foals, and take action to control risks
1.2 Calculate foaling date and prepare mare and facilities for foaling
1.3 Adjust mare nutritional requirements according to nutrition plan
1.4 Determine vaccination schedule in consultation with veterinarian
1.5 Check for Caslick and open when necessary

2. Prepare mare for parturition

2.1 Monitor signs of foaling and imminent birth in mares, and review mare foaling history
2.2 Ensure site hygiene and infection control, including use of personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling mares
2.3 Wash and clean the mare’s udder and perineal areas and wrap the upper half of the tail
2.4 Ensure emergency resuscitation kit is stocked and ready

3. Monitor mares and foals during and after birth

3.1 Monitor and assist mares during the stages of labour using safe and calm horse handling techniques
3.2 Ensure emergency procedures are in place for veterinarian care and/or transport to clinic
3.3 Make sure foal is breathing and receives colostrum soon after birth
3.4 Put iodine on the umbilical stump and check over several days for the presence of urine
3.5 Make sure the foal stands and nurses correctly in a reasonable timeframe
3.6 Make sure the mare expels the afterbirth in appropriate time and check it for completeness
3.7 Check the mare for several days for any signs of reproductive tract infection
3.8 Check the foal for several days to monitor health and vital signs, including immunoglobulin testing
3.9 Collect colostrum from suitable mares for freezing and to be used as required

4. Apply treatments to mares and foals

4.1 Make sure the foal is protected against tetanus
4.2 Ensure foals are vaccinated and dewormed according to workplace procedures
4.3 Implement workplace procedures for dealing with orphan foals
4.4 Check mares for signs that may warrant attention from a veterinarian
4.5 Record details of the birth and maintain workplace records

No information

Replaces

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BBE11	ACMHBR402	Manage foaling and post-foaling problems	Unit of competency

State Code	National Code	Title	Type
BES0	RGR40619	Certificate IV in Horse Breeding	Qualification
BES8	RGR50319	Diploma of Horse Stud Management	Qualification