We are a full-service equine hospital in Glenwood Springs, Colorado with 24/7 emergency care.
04/24/2025
Who doesn’t love a mule foal?!
This little mule foal (Mad Dog) came into our clinic at about 12 hours of age. Initially after birth, he had been doing great. But he slowly became lethargic and didn’t want to nurse. He was brought into us after his urine was noted to be dark red.
Shortly after arrival, Mad Dog was diagnosed with neonatal isoerythrolysis (NI). This occurs when the mares colostrum contains antibodies that attack the foals red blood cells resulting in severe anemia. Some early clinical signs may be lethargy, colic, red urine, and/or yellow sclera. NI typically requires immediate and aggressive medical care. A blood transfusion may be necessary in some cases and the foal has to be withheld from nursing until his/her gut “closes” at about 24 hours of age.
In Mad Dog’s case, he was lucky enough to have a blood donor! Boobers saved Mad Dog by donating 3 liters of her blood! Although Mad Dog was initially very sick, he responded well to all therapies and is now being a wild one at home! You can see how it started and how it went!
Contact us to learn more about NI!
