Lactation places huge demands on mares' energy stores, with well fed mares producing milk at about 3-4% of their body weight per day in the early stages of lactation. As a result of this, a mare's energy requirements can double that of a mare in early pregnancy as well as seeing a sizeable increase in their protein, calcium and phosphorus requirements. The first step to avoid extreme weight loss during lactation is to ensure that your mare is at least foaling down in moderate body condition (a layer of fat should cover the ribcage allowing it to be felt but not seen). Mares in poor condition at foaling have inadequate body reserves to produce enough milk for their foals, which can lead to them developing more slowly than foals that have access to ample amounts of good quality milk. To ensure your mare foals down at adequate body condition you should look at feeding a concentrate such as Gain^® Stud Cubes or Coarse Stud Mix to the mare alongside her good quality roughage.

During lactation even when consuming the maximum amount of concentrate feed that can be safely fed some mare lose considerable weight while nursing. This can not only be an obstacle in terms of supporting the growth of the suckling foal but can also lead to a difficult time conceiving and maintaining pregnancy for mares that are rebred.

Firstly, ensure that your mare has access to high quality pasture and/or forage; you could also consider the inclusion of high quality alfalfa as an additional fibrous source of energy, calcium and protein. In terms of concentrate supplementation choose a high quality fortified feed such as Gain^® Stud Cubes, Coarse Stud Mix or even for greater energy density Gain^® Prep 'N' Condition Mix.. To supply further calories to the diet top dress the concentrate with a high fat additive such as linseed oil or soya oil. It is also advisable to ensure you have a good worming programme in place and to get a dentist to check the mare's teeth. If you have any concerns about underlying health issues seek veterinary advice.

Research has shown that transporting horses can lead to stress, fatigue and lowered resistance to infection. However, every horse is an individual and some horses handle long distance travel a lot better than others. Some practical steps can be taken to minimise the stress of transport:

• Because exhausted or dehydrated horses are at the greatest risk of developing transport-related illnesses, ensure your horse is well rested and hydrated before you set out on your trip.
• Forage consumption stimulates saliva production which is a natural buffer against stomach acid; it also causes a greater thirst response (encouraging water intake when it is offered on the trip). Therefore, offer your horse hay that is free from dust or mould. Soaking the hay before setting off can minimise the amount of dust and loose pieces of hay that could blow into your horse's eyes.
• To avoid dehydration and the onset of fatigue offer your horse water every 4 to 6 hours or more frequently if possible.
• Pay attention to the horses' temperature making sure that he doesn't get too hot or cold in transit.
• Good ventilation will ensure a fresh flow of air and will help to minimise the risk of viral or bacterial respiratory infections contracted on the journey.
• Adequate leg space to help balance and enough room for your horse to lower his head and neck will help to make the journey more comfortable for him.
• If your journey is greater than 12 hours it would be a good idea to make provision to unload your horse and allow him to rest, eat, drink and urinate. Offering a high oil and fibre, low-starch feed at this time, such as Gain^® Freedom, will help to minimise the risk of a digestive upset and also contains natural antacids to help prevent the onset of gastric ulcers.
• Make sure you allow adequate time when you reach your destination for the horse to recover from this trip before the competition commences. This will enable to you to make sure that your horse is not dehydrated and is eating normally before you ask him to compete.