John Madigan DVM
Veterinarian / Researcher / Innovator / Author / Horseman
Equine Internal Medicine - Neonatal Medicine - Animal Welfare - Disaster and Emergency Response
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.
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'.
Awakening at Birth
What a “Dummy Foal” Taught Us About Consciousness, Neurodevelopment, and Becoming Human
They called them “dummy foals”—healthy newborns who wouldn’t wake up to life. For years, veterinarians were baffled. Then Dr. John Madigan discovered the hidden mechanism behind their sleep-like state, opening a new window into how all mammals, including humans, awaken at birth. This deeply personal and scientifically riveting story explores the mysterious threshold between unconsciousness and awareness—and what it may mean for autism, brain development, and who we become.
