Euthanasia

For obvious reasons, euthanasia is a very emotional subject for horse owners. Making the decision to have your horse put to sleep is never easy but knowing what to expect can make that final decision a little more bearable. Please do not hesitate to call us to discuss your horse’s situation and help you to decide if the time is right.

In some instances, a decision will have to be made urgently, for example if a serious colic or untreatable fracture occurs. Sometimes there are incurable long-term problems that seriously affect the horses’ quality of life such as painful chronic lameness or weight loss. In these circumstances, the decision is made to avoid further suffering.

Most people decide to have their horses euthanised at home in their familiar surroundings as this will involve the least disturbance for the horse. If there is time to plan, it is useful to have a large enough area with suitable access for the vehicle that will take the horse away. A quiet grassy or soft area is a preferable choice. If you do not have the facilities at home or would prefer to bring your horse to the clinic, this can be arranged.

Clinical euthanasia

Most horses will be sedated and have a catheter placed into the jugular vein to ensure safe access to the horses’ vein. A drug is administered through the catheter to induce a loss of consciousness and then cause the heart to stop. Horses will usually lean backwards and then collapse on their side. It can take up to 10 minutes in some cases for their final reflexes to stop but they are pain free and unaware of events.

Collection and Disposal

Strict regulations dictate that horses euthanised by clinical injection must be cremated. We work closely with Millers of Wokingham to arrange collection at a time that suits you. Please look at their website for details on cremation options and pricing. We will liaise with them on your behalf to make arrangements.

Please do get in touch if you have any questions or would like more information. We will be happy to assist you or talk through the options available.