So will you be going to Keeneland in November. What a great time to be a buyer!

I read another article that said the BLM's roundup of the mustangs was so traumatic to the horses because of the breakup of the bonding - that even if they let part of the herd go back, it takes years for that herd to have healthy social interactions again.

Very interesting study; thanks for alerting us to it...It does raise several thoughts-

Would the conception rate improve if mares weren't sent out of state (locale) for breeding? For that matter, is the advantage of the "bond" broken by the mere fact that the mare is removed from the herd for breeding?... A far as carrying to term (once there is conception)- one could infer that it would be preferable to return the mare to her previous herd, rather than board her at a new location. And many other thoughts...May be worth trying with known "problem" mares.  

I have always kept my mares in herd setting but try to keep no more than 5 to a pasture.  Last year, with 18 mares I had 100% conception rate with 100% carried to term with healthy foals. Some mares were shipped to breed but returned to their original herd as soon as possible.  Problem mares I keep to 2 0r 3 in a pasture.  I am a big disbeliever in keeping mares alone (or any horse for that matter) or with other stock.

Sceptre,

As far as I have observed with my motley herd (pets and riding horses), even quite extended separation does not break a strong bond.

I had my own riding horse (then boarded) have what seemed to amount to a nervous breakdown when he was separated from his buddy. They were apart for several weeks, and his whole demenour changed the instant they were re-united. I wouldn't be surprised if a bond as strong as that would survive over years.

Incidentally, taking them out for a ride seperately doesn't have the same effect, as long as they believe they will return to their buddy.

Adopt a mare. I adopted six in my program. They are from adoption programs.With VG pedigree. some injured from the track . Giving them a new life , that some owners just throw away. Have 5 in foal

This makes total sense, with horses' social natures.  The mares probably feel happier and more relaxed.  In a way it seems that studies like this are common sense, but in another way, being scientific, they might be more readily believed by people who might otherwise be skeptical.  Horses really are happier with other horses.

I have a beautifully breed Thoroughbred that has a gorgeous 5yo mare to her name, but we have had many years without a foal.  Would love to test this theory.  Maybe we could help each other.

Dear Alan,

Appreciate your remarks, and experienced much the same with my riding horses over the years (with regard your last paragraph)... The issue, however, is whether these mares will be negatively affected (conception-wise, or ability to carry) if removed from their companions for, perhaps, an extended period. The fact that they are able to quickly re-bond to their former companions was not the concern. For "problem mares", transporting them to the breeding shed with their paddock mate (if practicable) might prove "productive" (if there is real merit to this study).