The welfare of our mares
is an absolute priority at Avantea.
A healthy environment, attentive management and a respectful approach not only improve the animals’ quality of life, but also contribute to the success of assisted reproduction techniques.
Mare management – Welfare and fertility
Safe and controlled environment
Mares staying at Avantea are accommodated in an environment designed to minimise stress and promote their wellbeing.
- Spacious and comfortable stables to ensure adequate space and safety.
- Bright, well-ventilated environments.
- Daily access to the horse walker and paddocks, allowing mares to maintain regular physical activity.
Daily care and monitoring
Each donor mare is cared for by a team of veterinarians who closely monitor her health and wellbeing on an ongoing basis.
- Regular veterinary check-ups to maintain optimal physical and reproductive health.
- Strict vaccination and health protocols to protect the animals’ wellbeing.
- Daily monitoring of their general condition and reproductive status.
- Regular gynaecological examinations, essential for planning OPU and embryo transfer procedures.
- Access to specialised professionals, including farriers and veterinarians experienced in assisted reproduction.
Nutrition and nutritional wellbeing
A balanced, high-quality diet is essential for the wellbeing of the mares and for oocyte quality.
- Balanced, tailored diets based on the specific needs of each mare.
- High-quality forage.
- Monitoring of feed intake to help maintain an optimal body weight and condition.
Proper nutrition supports healthy, viable oocytes, increasing the chances of success in reproductive procedures.
Recovery and care after procedures
After an OPU procedure, we ensure that each mare receives attentive care:
- Monitoring in the hours following the procedure, including observation of behaviour and appetite.
- Recovery in a calm and safe environment, with the mare returning to her stable only once she has fully recovered from sedation.
- Monitoring of temperature and overall wellbeing during the following 48 hours.
Avantea recommends a gradual return to physical activity in the days following the procedure. Our goal is to help every mare return to full fitness as quickly as possible, without disrupting her routine or future activities.
Our commitment
A healthy, comfortable mare is key to a successful reproductive journey. At Avantea, her wellbeing always comes first.
- Welfare first: Every mare has specific needs, and we are committed to ensuring the highest level of comfort.
- A calm and safe environment: Facilities designed to promote the animals’ wellbeing, with appropriate spaces and careful management of social interactions.
- Ethics and responsibility: We operate in full compliance with veterinary and ethical standards, ensuring that animal health always remains a priority.
- Transparency and professionalism: We follow rigorous scientific protocols, ensuring the highest level of expertise and clarity at every stage of the process.
- Compliance with regulations: All Avantea activities comply with the guidelines of the Veterinary Medical Professional Order, ensuring adherence to the highest standards of animal welfare.
- Responsible research and innovation: We develop cutting-edge technologies in compliance with national and international regulations, contributing to the ethical and sustainable advancement of assisted reproduction.
