AWAKENING AT BIRTH
OBSERVATION * CURIOSITY * BIGGER QUESTIONS
The Discovery
From newborn foals to the mysteries of human birth and consciousness.
A remarkable veterinary discovery opened a new window into how the newborn brain awakens—and how the events surrounding birth may influence survival and long-term neurodevelopment.
A REMARKABLE JOURNEY
It Begins with a Mystery
Some newborn foals seem unable to connect with the world around them. What began as a puzzling observation led to an unexpected treatment and - discoveries that raise profound questions about the onset of consciousness at birth across species.
Birth is not merely the moment a newborn enters the world.
It is also the moment when the brain must awaken into it.
CAREFUL
observation
Noticing what others might miss
DEEPER QUESTIONS
Following the evidence, wherever it led
A BROADER PERSPECTIVE
Connecting insights across species for a brighter tomorrow
“Dr. Madigan is an innovator with keen abilities on observing how animals behave. The veterinary profession needs more good observers because they may have the best clinical skills.”
—Temple Grandin
EXPLORE THE KEY THEMES
Five Paths, A Bigger Picture
Each part of the journey offers a piece of the puzzle - from unexpected observations in foals to broader insites about birth, the brain, and the power of early care.
“Observation is the beginning of understanding. And understanding can lead to a kinder, brighter world, for all who are born.”
—John Madigan
About the Book
A fascinating discovery from equine foals, reveals new insights into fetal unconsciousness, brain development, and how the right biological signals at birth may influence survival and long-term neurodevelopment.
Who Should Read It?
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Parents and caregivers
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Healthcare Professionals
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Veterinarians, and animal, lovers,
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Researchers and students
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Animal Breeders
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Anyone interested in the mysteries of consciousness and brain development
What You'll Discover
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The hidden biological signals that awaken the newborn brain
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A simple technique that's helping falls and may inspire new thinking about human birth
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The role of brain hormones, and maternal contact
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Real clinical stories from the field,
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New questions about long-term neurodevelopment, including conditions, such as autism
“Observation is the basis of clinical advancement.”
—Sir William Osler
Founder John Hopkins Medical School
Dr. John Madigan
John Madigan is a veterinarian, researcher, author, and Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine. Internationally recognized for his work in equine neonatal medicine, he developed the Madigan Squeeze Procedure and has spent his career investigating the critical transition from fetal to newborn life.
Diplomate American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine
Diplomate American College of Animal Welfare
Distinguished Professor Emeritus
School of Veterinary Medicine
University of California-Davis
