Blended learning equine reproduction course
Who is this course aimed at:
Sport horse (and pony) breeders embarking on breeding for the first time or existing breeders aiming to improve or refresh their knowledge. For those aged 18 years of age or older.
Course fee 200 euros
The course objectives are:
- To provide information so that informed decisions can be reached to embark on a sport horse/pony breeding enterprise.
- To educate sport horse/pony breeders in the fundamentals of equine breeding, and reproduction husbandry.
How is this course delivered?
The first three days are delivered online through Zoom, followed by one day of practical learning on farm.
An accompanying course manual is also be provided.
November/December 2025 Course
This course is now closed for applications. The below outline offers a typical outline for future courses.
Expressions of interest in future courses or queries can be sent to:wendy.conlon@teagasc.ie or Sean.E.Keane@teagasc.ie
Session One | Tuesday, November 11th | 2pm to 4.30pm
Anatomy and physiology
- Mare reproductive system
- Physiology of the breeding cycle
Session Two | Tuesday November 18th | 2pm to 4.30pm
Reproduction
- Reproductive soundness in the mare
- Pre mating mare management
- Mating management
- Mare management after mating
Session Three | Tuesday November 25th | 2pm to 4.30pm
Reproduction continued
- Subfertility in mares
- Artificial breeding techniques
Please Note: Zoom classroom sessions are not being recorded, to encourage full participation by attendees during interactive elements of the course.
Online sessions will be provided using the ‘Zoom’ platform therefore a good internet connection is required to engage fully with these.
Session Four | Thursday December 4th | 11am to 4pm
The on farm workshop reviews equine reproductive husbandry while learning from a breeder, and an audience with a specialist repro vet.
Please note the farm workshop date (and venue) may be subject to change should any unforeseen issue arise, while every effort is made to retain the date and venue as advertised.
Blended learning equine foaling and neonatal health
Who is this course aimed at?
Breeders (irrespective of breed) wishing to learn more about foaling and neonatal foal care can benefit from the course content.
For those aged 18 years of age / older.
The course objectives are:
- To create awareness of all aspects of preparation for foaling, normal foaling, and recognising dystocias (difficult presentations)
- To provide information to assist breeders in managing the basic health care needs of neonatal foals and recognising signs of illness
How is this course delivered?
The first two sessions of the course are delivered online through Zoom, followed by one half day of face to face workshop in a farm environment.
A course manual will also be provided.
Course fee 175 euros
April 2025 Course
This course is now closed for applications. The below outline offers a typical outline for future courses.
Expressions of interest in future courses or queries can be sent to wendy.conlon@teagasc.ie or Sean.E.Keane@teagasc.ie
Session One|
Foaling
- Late gestation mare and preparations for foaling
- Foaling: normal foaling and dystocias (difficult presentations)
- Care of the mare after foaling
Session Two|
Routine care of the neonatal foal and potential illnesses
- Routine care and monitoring of foals after foaling
- Neonatal and young foal health (and illnesses)
Please Note: Zoom classroom sessions are NOT being recorded, to encourage full participation by attendees during interactive elements of the course.
Online sessions will be provided using the ‘Zoom’ platform therefore a good internet connection is required to engage fully with these.
Session Three|
Practical aspects of foaling and young foal care
On farm workshop – venue Irish National Stud, Co. Kildare