No, he didnt say it was normal, he felt it and said it was fluid. This is why I have been describing it as a "tire"!
He said it should go down after she foals.
Sorry about the state of her, she was brushed and all nice and then decided to roll and plait her mane! : )
Well, I tell ya, you learn something new everyday. I'm glad you posted the pic so if I ever see it again, I'll know what it is.
I think she looks lovely. Uncomfortable, but lovely.