Iron Hills Farm

Below is a list of questions frequently asked by mare owners who wish to breed their mare but don’t know where to begin. Use this page to determine where to start and how to plan for your expecting equine partner.

• What is the process for breeding my mare to your stallion?
Mare owners need to bring their mares on-site for breeding and the mare will need to be boarded at Iron Hils Farm for at least one breeding cycle. (Fresh semen for pickup at the farm for the 2024 season is not available but may be available for the 2025 season).

• How long will my mare need to stay at Iron Hills Farm?
The breeding cycle can differ slightly with each mare but the average duration from the beginning of one heat cycle to the beginning of the next cycle is 21 days with a 7-day estrus (heat) period and a 14-day diestrus (not in heat) period. After the mare has been successfully bred during her estrus period the mare owner may pick up their mare and have her ultrasounded as early as 15 days after breeding to check for a foal embryo by a reputable reproductive or equine veterinarian. Options to shorten the time-span that your mare stays at Iron Hills Farm can include having your vet ultrasound your mare prior to arrival to determine the best time to deliver her to the farm (subject to availability of openings) or administering the hormone “Lutelyse” (under the discretion of your vet), to increase the chance that she will already be in heat upon arrival and thus able to return home more quickly. In some cases such as this, mares can be ready to come home in as little as 8-10 days.

•Is there anything I can do to prepare my mare for breeding?

A pre-breeding ultrasound and/or reproductive examination by a veterinarian is always a good starting option, it is also highly recommended for “Maiden” mares over the age of 10 years old. As the bottom line, insuring that your mare is in good health, is sound, and is safe to handle otherwise are all important factors for breeding. A negative coggins and hind shoes removed before arrival is also required.

•What are the housing/boarding options for my mare?

Iron Hills Farm offers full-care boarding options with stalling, private turnout, or optional “small group” turnout availability. Private stalling and turnout is $10 per day, small-group turnout is $7 per day. We offer quality mix grass hay, premium western alfalfa, and grain. Stalls are cleaned twice per day and live security cameras are in operation 24/7. You may also call or email periodically to check on your mare.

•How do I need to care for my mare once she becomes pregnant?

Regular routine care that you already provide for your mare will be the most important during the majority of her pregnancy, with special attention to broodmare-safe deworming options. As she progresses into the late stage of pregnancy, calorie intake will increase. High quality forage is a number-1 choice for feeding broodmares in the later trimester, followed by quality grain if needed, and an optional reproduction-supportive vitamin or mineral supplement such as Platinum Performance or SmartPak Mare Plus. A reputable veterinarian that is on board during the process can give further detailed insight and information regarding the care of your pregnant mare, and we are usually available by phone or email for further input during your mare’s pregnancy and foaling journey.

•Can I ride my mare while she is pregnant?

Yes! Regular exercise that is not overly-exerting can be healthy for your mare during her pregnancy. It is best to take special care during her first trimester until she has settled at around 90 days.

Please feel free to reach out with any other questions you may have regarding breeding your mare!