What happens at a covering
For anyone new to breeding or simply curious about what goes on behind the scenes at stud, understanding the covering process is important. Covering is the term used for mating a Thoroughbred mare and stallion, and in the UK, the covering season begins on 15 February each year.
It's worth remembering from the outset that Thoroughbred breeding operates under strict rules: artificial insemination and embryo transfer are not permitted. Every registered Thoroughbred must be the product of natural covering.
Before the Mare Meets the Stallion
There's a good deal of preparation that happens before a mare ever arrives at the covering shed, including routine health tests for infectious diseases, such as EVA, EIA and CEM. Further information on disease control and prevention can be found in the HBLB International Code of Practices.
If a mare has a foal at foot, she will generally cycle naturally and be ready to cover at the heat period around 26 days post foaling. Teasing the mare can help bring her into season. In some cases, hormone treatments are used to help synchronise the mare's cycle. A vet will then scan her to confirm she's approaching ovulation, ensuring the timing of the covering gives the best possible chance of a successful conception.
At the stud
Once everything is in place, the covering itself takes place in a covering shed, under close supervision throughout.
Safety is the priority for both mare and stallion. Protective boots and occasionally a neck guard are part of the standard set-up, helping to reduce the risk of injury during mating. The mare's tail is also wrapped, keeping it out of the way so it doesn't interfere with the process.
The mare is restrained to keep her as still as possible. The stallion is then led in and mounts the mare - mating itself normally takes just a few seconds and careful groundwork beforehand is what makes those moments go smoothly.
Want to know more? There is a comprehensive five-part course on TB-Ed about getting the mare in foal, take a closer look here.