Fortunately horses are one of the longest lived domestic
animals – never the less all have shorter life spans than us. Eventually every
horse owner will have to face the most important decision on their horse’s
welfare – that euthanasia is necessary.
Many owners ask for guidance about how they can recognise
that their horse’s welfare has deteriorated to such an extent that euthanasia
is required. The following guidelines may be of assistance – but each case does
require individual assessment.
Injuries:
- A
complete long bone fracture above the knee or hock.
- Collapse
of the tendons in both fore or both hind limbs.
- An
open (compound) fracture below the knee or hock.
- Severe
colic where surgical correction is not practical.
Old age or infirmity.
- Gets
cast frequently in box or at pasture.
- Requires
assistance to rise.
- Development
of sores over pressure points such as elbows or over the pelvis.
- Severe
weight loss such as there is no fat covering.
- Loss
of majority of teeth – making eating difficult.
- Severe
lameness not alleviated by pain killers or appropriate treatment.
- Severe
ongoing laminitis – none responsive to treatment.
Methods.
It is best when dealing with an old horse nearing its end to
plan in advance. It is better for the welfare
of the horse for it to be humanely destroyed before its situation becomes
critical.
Traditionally horses have always been put down by a ‘free’
bullet from a humane slaughter instrument. Although this is instantaneous and
highly effective many owners find the process unnecessarily distressing due to
the noise and potential for bleeding afterwards. More recently euthanasia
injections have become available for horses. Most owners find this a more
acceptable method of humane destruction. Veterinary surgeons are not permitted
to routinely carry firearms in their cars. If it is decided to use the
traditional method of euthanasia this must be arranged in advance.
Location.
In cases of serious accidents the horse must be destroyed at
the location of the injury as transport may cause further suffering. However in
‘elective’ euthanasia cases you may decide on the most appropriate location.
Remember that a vehicle must be able to gain access to the site to enable
collection of the remains. It is usually best not to put down a horse in a
stable as it can be difficult to remove it afterwards. Some owners prefer to
bring their horse to the clinic for euthanasia – this is perfectly acceptable
as long as the horse is fit to travel.
After Euthanasia.
Burying your horse at home has become increasingly difficult
due to government legislation. Most owners now opt for a form of cremation. You
can request return of ashes and many companies will offer a range of services
from scatter boxes to caskets.
Arrangements can be made for your local knackerman to
collect and cremate the remains. There are now several commercial firms that
specialist in the cremation and return of ashes from horses.
A useful contact is www.kingshillcremations.co.uk.
We have always found this firm to provide an efficient and sympathetic service.
Equine Services
