In the chilly days between two snowstorms and windy weather, the Cornell Equine Park saw its first foal of 2018 born last week. Moe, a 10-year-old mare, delivered foal Tigger on March 9.

“I’ve had a foal born at the equine park each of the past three years,” said Moe’s owner Linda Mastellar. “It’s a great comfort to know that they are closely monitored.”

Anna Mitchell, theriogenology resident with the College of Veterinary Medicine, described Tigger as a strong foal at birth. “He was quick to stand and nurse, and he’s continued to be a fast learner,” she said.

The Cornell Equine Park is two miles from the college and contains 165 acres of pasture, a 62-stall main barn, a stallion barn, and a broodmare barn. The entire facility acts as a learning lab for veterinary medicine students and researchers, and provides reproductive medicine services for clients.

Moe is an American Paint/Thoroughbred cross. She was bred to a Hanoverian stallion named Bugatti Hilltop. This was her first pregnancy and birth. “With a maiden mare, you never quite know how they will manage the birth and motherhood in general,” said Mitchell, adding that Moe gave birth “like a pro” and that Tigger couldn’t ask for a better mom.

“She has been a delight to have at the park,” said Mitchell. “She has such a calm and attentive attitude and just the right amount of discipline when the little one pushes it too far!”

Moe brought her business-like personality to her first pregnancy, said Mastellar. “She was a trooper. She has opinions but states them politely, and don’t try to bribe her with treats,” said Mastellar. “She’s not easily bought!”

The park has six mares in their Teaching Herd that are due this year, and one additional client mare getting ready to foal. They expect more client mares to come in over the season.

“It’s comforting to know that the horses are monitored on a regular basis and evaluated after the birth as well,” said Mastellar. “The immediate availability of expert care in case of a complication is a huge asset.” 

By Melanie Greaver Cordova