Elena Moore’s Foaling Kit Must-Haves

Foaling can go perfectly smooth, or it can turn critical in a heartbeat. Preparation is everything. This is what I keep in my foaling kit—no exceptions.

1. Clean Towels (lots of them)
   – For drying the foal, keeping the mare clean, and wiping hands/equipment.
   – You cannot have too many.
2. Gloves
   – Long obstetrical sleeves + regular latex gloves.
   – Infection prevention is non-negotiable.
3. Disinfectant (Betadine scrub or equivalent)
   – For cleaning the mare’s vulva if I have to intervene.
   – Also for my hands, instruments, or any surfaces.
4. Scissors & Umbilical Clamps
   – For tying/clamping the umbilical cord if needed.
   – Iodine for dipping the stump right after birth to prevent infection.
5. Bulb Syringe
   – To clear mucus from the foal’s nose and mouth if breathing doesn’t establish right away.
6. Sterile Lubricant
   – If I need to check the foal’s position internally.
   – Better to have it and not use it than need it and not have it.
7. Foaling Straps/Ropes
   – Soft cotton ropes for gentle assistance if the foal is stuck.
   – Only used when absolutely necessary.
8. Bucket + Thermometer
   – Warm water for washing up.
   – Thermometer for checking the mare or foal if something seems off.
9. Flashlight + Spare Batteries
   – Because mares love foaling at 2 AM in the darkest corner of the barn.
10. Notebook & Pen
    – Record times: when labor started, when the foal stood, when the placenta passed.
    – These details matter for the mare’s health record.
11. Emergency Contacts
    – Vet’s number on speed dial. No hesitation if something feels wrong.

Optional but Smart:
– Towels warmed in a dryer if foaling in cold weather.
– Enemas for foals if meconium impaction occurs.
– Thermos of coffee and snacks (for the humans on call—thanks to Rafael and his mother’s bizcochitos).