It’s a familiar sight in stables: a camera pointed at the mare to monitor every movement during pregnancy. While cameras may seem convenient, they don’t provide complete certainty that you’ll be alerted in time for foaling. In this article, we explain why a foaling alert system like Birth Alarm is much safer and more reliable.
1. Cameras are reactive, not an alert system
A camera can show everything, but it doesn’t actively notify you of a critical situation. If your mare lies down at night and starts foaling, you need to constantly watch the screen to notice this. That’s not practical, especially if you want to sleep or have other tasks to attend to.
2. No alerts during critical moments
The most crucial moment during foaling is the actual birth of the foal, or when the mare lies on her side for an extended period. Cameras don’t alert you when this happens. A birth alert system detects this immediately and sends a notification to your phone or receiver, so you can intervene right away if necessary.
3. Distance and range are often problematic
A camera typically only works within your Wi-Fi network range. This means you always need to be near a network to view the footage. Birth alert systems like Birth Alarm Mobile work via a SIM card and can alert you anywhere, whether you’re off the property or in bed at night.
4. Additional stress for the mare
Cameras often require extra cables, lights, or mounts in the stable, which can distract or stress the mare. Birth Alarm transmitters are lightweight and comfortably attached to the girth or halter, allowing your mare to maintain her natural movement.
5. The ideal combination
Cameras are useful for observation and reassurance, but only a birth alert system provides real certainty. With Birth Alarm, you know you’ll be alerted at the right moment, without having to constantly watch or disturb your mare.