It’s Getting Closer!

Just thought everyone might get a kick out seeing Jewels progress toward foaling. She is officially “due” June 4 (this coming Wednesday), but Kristel is not sure which of the five days of breeding was the day she “took.” With a mare, it’s easy to know exactly (within 48 hours) when she will foal (unlike goats, which are very inconsistent in showing signs of kidding). How does this miracle of “knowing” happen? Read on!

With mares, all you need is a pH strip, which registers the acidity of the mare’s milk. The pH starts out quite high (in pH terms), and the milk is clear and watery. As the mare gets closer to foaling, the milk turns thicker and yellow like honey. And she “waxes,” which means thick drops hang on the ends of her teats. When she’s ready to foal (within a day), the milk turns to the normal colostrum. It’s actually quite interesting. You can watch the video below to see Jewels (who is not in a good mood and just wants to stand in a corner) and then watch Kristel test her pH to see if she’s getting closer. Could it be tonight?

The pH of the mare’s milk can go down fast or slow. Last foaling (March 2023), Jewels was was tested during the day and was up in the “7s.” She was due that day, but as a first-time mare, who knew how fast or slow? When Scarlett (Kody’s mom) looked like she was going to deliver that evening, we randomly decided to test Jewels again. Eeks! 6.2! She had dropped so very fast. She had Taffy a few hours later. Scarlett had Kody several hours later (a long, busy night).

When the pH drops to 6.2, foaling is imminent (for sure within the next 48 hours. Jewels hit 6.2 and it was less than 12 hours). So, enjoy the video. When do YOU think Jewels will foal? Share your guess in the comments.

If you want to join in the “Name the Filly” contest, the form is still open for name suggestions. All names do need to begin with “Jewels” for the registration papers. Kristel is overwhelmed by all the awesome names that have been submitted so far. I’m so glad I don’t have to pick it this time! (I name all of the goats.) Click here to submit your name idea for Jewels’ filly >

And here is Rubicon, the sire! The new filly’s Daddy!