ColdSpring was built on the belief that
nurse mare programs can and should be done different.

Ethical Nurse Mares

ColdSpring is different

Our mares do not need to be bred in order to become nurse mares. Through our proprietary protocol, we are able to bring them into milk without breeding them, eliminating the need to create an unwanted foal in the process. Every mare arrives fully in milk, ready to pair, and backed by our commitment to thoughtful, hands-on support.

We focus on quality over quantity, with a carefully selected herd of proven broodmares chosen for their temperament, maternal instinct, soundness, and ability to care for a foal.

ColdSpring is a nonprofit, allowing us to take that commitment even further. Our mares are cared for as individuals throughout their lives, from their time in the program through retirement. For us, this is about more than providing a nurse mare. It is about creating a more responsible, compassionate standard for mares, foals, and the people who care for them.

Bronwyn Watts

I’m here to help.

If you’re in need of a nurse mare, the first step is simply a conversation. Give me a call and we can talk through your foal, your situation, and what you need. From there, I’ll help you figure out the best next step.

Bronwyn Watts
540.588.3453

501(c)(3)
Registered Nonprofit
EIN 33-1675948

Nearly 500 Pairings

ColdSpring Mares has successfully paired nearly 500 orphaned and rejected foals with experienced nurse mares.

When a foal loses its dam or is rejected, we match it with a proven mother who can raise it through weaning.

Our pairing process is quiet and low-stress. The result is a healthy, thriving foal and a mare who already knows exactly how to do the job. This is the work we do every season.

Exceptional Care
Every Mare

Every mare in the program receives consistent, high-level care.

That includes regular veterinary attention, dental work, farrier visits every 6–8 weeks, and carefully managed nutrition to keep them strong while they nurse.

They live on ample pasture with other mares, get seasonal rest, and are never pushed past what their bodies can handle.
Healthy, content mares are the foundation of everything we do.

Meaningful Retirement

Our mares are experienced mothers who have already raised their own foals and finished their breeding careers.

Instead of being sold, bred again, or left without purpose, they are given a clear next chapter: raising orphaned foals that need them.

They are never impregnated to produce milk. It is useful work for mares who still have a great deal to give, and it is the ethical alternative the industry needs.

  • "Bronwyn brought us a great little mare right away in our time of need. She got the pair hooked up so quickly and easily that you would have thought it was her own baby. I love the idea of no "throw away" babies!! I recommend her services to any that need a nurse mare."

    — Reena L.

  • "I have seen first hand what goes on within this wonderful organization. The mares are happy, healthy, and given a new chance at life - along with all of the foals they have helped thus far. This is an incredible program run by incredible people who care about and always prioritize the safety and happiness of their horses."

    - Maggie K.

  • "Beautiful people and horses. Angels on earth."

    - Barbara R.

  • "Working with Bronwyn Watts and her mares is such a pleasure. I am so proud to be a part of her program and always enjoy shipping her mares. Each of these awesome mares comes with her own story and experience and Bronwyn treats each horse as an individual and special because each of theses mares are. Bronwyn takes great pride in the service she and her mares provide!"

    — Joan Turner

  • "Excellent job introducing the mare and foal. Great service provided in our area!"

    - Lauren E.

  • "I've know Bronwyn Watts for over a decade and her horsemanship skills are top notch. She is a true servant of the horses and put 110% into everything she does. ColdSpring Nurse Mares in a game changer in the way the industry deals with Nursemare and her innovative approach is one to be replicated and admired! I'd recommend her to anyone and everyone!"

    - Jaclyn B.

Donations

Coldspring Mares is a 501c3 Nonprofit

We are committed to doing things the right way, and that means caring for our mares long after their time in service is over.

Our lease fees do not cover the full cost of year-round care including nutrition, veterinary support, and emergency needs.

Your support helps us continue providing exceptional care and keep our services accessible.