Life goes on for the animals of Derbyshire. Babies are still being born despite the challenges of COVID-19. Here is newborn foal Mumbo, with his Mum Rihanna, having their first check by Vet Rhiannah!
Blood Testing
Mumbo had a blood test to check that he had received sufficient antibodies via Rihanna’s colostrum. The antibodies will help protect him from infection as he grows. Antibodies from colostrum are only absorbed in the first few hours after birth, and at 24hrs no further absorption will occur. This is why we carry out the blood test at 24-36hrs old. If insufficient antibodies have been absorbed then a plasma transfusion may be necessary to increase the foals antibody levels.
Thankfully Mumbo’s result was very positive – you can see that the “T or Test” line is thicker and darker than the “C or Control” line which indicates a good result.
For more information about our reproductive services please head over to our service page
