John Madigan DVM

Veterinarian / Researcher / Author

Equine Internal Medicine - Neonatal Medicine - Animal Welfare - Disaster and Emergency Response

John E. Madigan MS, DVM

Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine

Diplomate American College of Animal Welfare

Distinguished Professor Emeritus

School of Veterinary Medicine

University of California-Davis

ABOUT

Transition to
Consciousness at Birth

Comparative Analysis of Equines and Humans

The transition from fetal life to consciousness at birth involves complex biological processes. My research explores this process in both horses (newborn foals) and human infants, examining similarities and species-specific differences that influence survival and developmental outcomes.

Manual of Equine Neonatal Medicine

The newly revised 4th edition of Manual of Equine Neonatal Medicine is an invaluable resource for veterinarians specializing in foal care.

Worldwide Survey on Madigan Squeeze Procedure

Our research group is conducting a survey of horse owner, veterinarians, breeding farm managers, foaling assistants and anyone who has experience utilizing the Madigan Squeeze Procedure (MSP) in newborn foals with the condition known as maladjustment syndrome or the 'dummy foal'.

More Information

Awakening at Birth

John’s upcoming book, Awakening at Birth, explores his discovery of the "Birth Code"—the universal biological signals that trigger the transition from fetal unconsciousness to newborn awareness. From the foaling stalls of California to the NICUs of Stanford Medical School, this work reveals how a "horse doctor" uncovered a biological switch that could change how we understand the first moments of life for all mammals.