Understand potential long-term effects and learn how to manage them Managing the Miracle Foal is a groundbreaking text that introduces some long-term consequences of gestational immaturity in horses. Drawing on PhD research into foals with a history of premature or dysmature births, Dr Jane Clothier explores how early developmental compromise can shape health, performance, and wellbeing at maturity. Many of these effects are subtle, emerging only months or years later – often leaving owners and professionals searching for explanations. Which foals are affected? This is not only a matter for sick premature foals. Many dysmature foals, born full-term but weaker with some signs of developmental immaturity, can also be affected. The biggest risk is that the more subtle signs can escape the owner's notice. This book reveals the complex interplay of biological, environmental, and management factors that influence outcomes for these horses and ponies, translating scientific findings into information that the owner can use. The subjects covered here are what the owner needs to think about after the vet has been, and once veterinary treatments (if needed) have been completed. It provides some answers to questions about will happen with the foal that now needs to be raised. It is important to remember that not every foal will be affected the same way. Some will have no effects and some will have a few, while others will have many. In this book you will learn: How gestational immaturity can affect long-term development in horses and ponies. Why some health and performance issues can appear later in life. The nature of some health challenges faced by premature and dysmature foals as they mature. Some key considerations for supporting these individuals from early life into adulthood. Dr Clothier uses clear, straightforward language, so that as many owners as possible can understand this vital information. The text is supported by photographs and specially commissioned illustrations to help get the key points across. Written for horse owners, breeders, trainers, equine health professionals and all students of the horse, Managing the Miracle Foal helps you to understand the development of gestationally immature foals as they start to mature, and details some informed management approaches that can help them to thrive.