I am wondering at what age one starts to evaluate whether to re-breed or to retire a broodmare? If the mare appears healthy and happy and is still conceiving and foaling out easily do you continue to breed her despite her age? Or, do you make an age determination even if everything appears to be going well?
I retired my 22 yo this year, although she just had an easy delivery (placenta passed within the hour) after an easy pregnancy. She looks fabulous, and is in great weight (too easy to keep) - but I just thought - good, retire her while she is perfect. I’d have a hard time forgiving myself if I bred her, and had something go wrong with the pregnancy or delivery.
I don’t think one can make a hard and fast rule, but must go with one’s heart / gut.
Thanks.
My favorite mare is 20 this year and just delivered a healthy colt. I plan to rebreed her probably one more time, but was wondering a little about it as she will be 21 when she delivers the next one. She just looked so fabulous this pregnancy I think she will be fine but I also start to worry just a little about upcoming deliveries becoming difficult. I think one more and that will be it for her as well.
If she conceives easily and maintains weight while nursing, she is likely telling you that she’s fine to keep on going. You must also consider their comfort if they have any arthritis or other old age issues.
There is def no 1 right age =)
