Euthanasia
Euthanasia is one of the most challenging elements of equine ownership. Ensuring a dignified and pain free end at the right time is crucial, but not always an easy decision to make. We will support you through the decision and process. In older horses, discussing any thoughts or concerns about euthanasia is best done sooner rather than later, as this will minimise stress when the time comes. Unfortunately, in some cases emergency euthanasia may be required and in those circumstances it may be helpful to have some understanding of the process outlined below.
Methods of Euthanasia
Lethal Injection: Following placement of an intravenous catheter and administration of sedation, an overdose of anaesthetic is injected. This results in loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest, and can only be done by a Veterinary Surgeon. Following a lethal injection, the horse is unsuitable for animal consumption.
Shooting: This is a quick method that can be carried out by a licensed individual or Veterinary Surgeon. At Hampton Equine Vets, we do not have any vets with a firearms licence, but are able to arrange this service via local contacts if you choose this method of euthanasia. Unlike with lethal injection, the horse is suitable for animal consumption after shooting.
After euthanasia we recommend that you do not remain present for collection as this can be distressing for most horse owners. If you would like to keep mane, tail or shoes as a keepsake, then we are happy to arrange this for you.
Disposal
There are several options for disposal that we can discuss with you prior to the appointment. Most collection services will take carcasses for cremation or render. Costs for cremation will vary depending on whether you want an individual cremation with ashes back, or a mass cremation with no ashes back. In some cases, the hunt kennels will collect horses that have been shot for animal consumption. In England you may be able to bury your horse or pony on your land as long as you follow local regulations and observe guidance regarding proximity to water sources and drainage. We advise that you contact your local council if you are planning on burial, to check that it is permitted in your area.
Insured Horses
It is crucial that you have read your insurance policy thoroughly and understand what will and will not be covered, for example the euthanasia and disposal fees. In all cases of non-emergency euthanasia, the insurers should be contacted and advised of the decision prior to your appointment. If your horse does not meet BEVA guidelines, then the insurers may not pay out on mortality claims. These guidelines are available by following this link. (https://www.beva.org.uk/Portals/0/Documents/ResourcesForVets/Humane%20Destruction.pdf)
If your horse dies naturally, then you should contact your insurers before disposal, as they may request a post mortem examination prior to assessing a claim.
At Hampton Equine Vets we have years of personal experience of horse ownership, and understand how difficult this time can be. We will endeavour to support you before, during and after the euthanasia but have also included some links below for further information and pet bereavement services.
The Blue Cross Pet Bereavement Service
Free and confidential support via phone or email.
Email: pbssmail@bluecross.org.uk Phone: 0800 096 6606
The British Horse Society (BHS) ‘Friends at the End’ Scheme
Free confidential support to horse owners and carers before, during and after euthanasia
Email: friendsattheend@bhs.org.uk Phone: 02476 840517