Foalert FAQ

1. How is the transmitter attached?
It is sutured to the vulva lips with 3 simple sutures.

2. Does a veterinarian have to suture the transmitter?
The suturing process is very important, so we do recommend that it be done by a veterinarian who is familiar with the procedure. We provide specific instructions in our video and our instructional manual.

3. What is the chance of a false alarm?
You should not experience false alarms if the equipment is tested and used per the instructions and the suture is performed properly. On rare occasions a mare will dislodge the magnet while rubbing her rear. It is very important to inspect and clean (with soap, cotton and water) the transmitter daily.

4. When should the transmitter be attached?
When you are concerned that the expectant mother needs constant attention. We recommend 1 to 2 weeks prior to the expected delivery date.

5. How many births can be monitored simultaneously?
As many as necessary. You will need a transmitter for each animal you are monitoring, but only one receiver.

6. How many uses do you get from a transmitter?
One from the single use (red) and several (up to 10 uses) from the multi-use (blue) **provided the instructions are followed and the magnet is not left out of the transmitter shelf for long periods of time.

7. What causes a transmitter to go bad?
The transmitter has a battery inside with a certain amount of life. When the actuating magnet is in place in the shelf of the transmitter, the battery is dormant, or not being used. When the magnet is pulled out, the battery is draining. The longer a magnet is out of the shelf at one time, the more life you drain from the battery. RED TRANSMITTERS WILL GO DEAD IF YOU LEAVE THE MAGNET OUT OF THE SHELF FOR 60 CONSECUTIVE SECONDS. The blue transmitters have a few hours of life.

8. How do you know when a transmitter should be replaced?
It will not activate the receiver, or it activates the receiver only at close range. It is IMPORTANT to always test transmitters at FULL RANGE before suturing.

9. Can you test a single use transmitter?
Yes. In testing, the magnet is out for a couple of seconds. It is the CONSECUTIVE time out that kills the battery.

10. Can the transmitter batteries be replaced?
No. The body of the transmitter is hermetically sealed to protect against moisture. Opening the seal allows moisture into the body, thus contaminating the delicate electronic components inside the transmitter.

11. Is the Foalert technology compatible with miniature horses?
Yes. The system has been used successfully with most breeds of Horses, Llamas, Cows, Sheep and Camels.

12. What is the usual charge for suturing the transmitter?
Consult your veterinarian.

13. Is the system effective in case of dystocia?
Yes. The initial premise behind the development of this system was to allow an attended birth in case of a dystocia. The system is designed to activate when the vulva lips physically open at birth. We do have documentation that, in some cases, the straining of a mare during a full breech will dislodge the magnet, thus activating the transmitter.

14. How long do I have to reach the birth site once the system alarm sounds?
Actual birth time will vary depending on the species, breed and specific animal. The alarm sounds when the vulva physically opens which is usually caused by the amniotic vesicle (opaque water bag) or front feet. From this point a normal delivery is usually complete in 10 to 20 minutes. Depending on how quickly you respond to the alarm, the newborn may be partially out or already on the ground upon your arrival. The system allows you to rest, knowing that you will be alerted to monitor or assist the delivery and to be on hand for imprinting, to assist with problems, deal with initial examinations, and take steps for disease prevention.

15. Can the transmitters be used for more than one season?
Yes. They should be cleaned with soap and water, stored in a cool place, separated by bubble wrap, with the magnet in the shelf. ALWAYS test transmitters at full range prior to suturing.

16. What is the range of the system?
An animal wearing a transmitter can be up to 150 - 200 feet from the standard range receiver and 1000 -1200 feet from the long range receiver. Range will vary depending on obstructions. Metal obstructions block transmission. As soon as the receiver is activated the signal will be sent by the accessory device to the attendant. There is a report of a cell phone receiving a foaling alert message in Los Angeles from an auto dialer on a receiver in Lexington, KY!

17. How do I hear the alarm sound if I'm not in the barn?
We have various accessories whereas you can be alerted via telephone, pager, or secondary alarm.