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Talking about the end of your horse or pony’s life is not easy, and oſten not thought about until it is forced upon you. It is better to be prepared, and to know beforehand just what is involved. ere are many reasons why a horse may have to be euthanased – some need an immediate decision, others are more gradual. It can be one of the hardest decisions an owner has to make. is article will explain the available options, as well as what is involved and the help and support available. As vets we encourage you to speak to us when you are considering euthanasia of your horse, so we can give advice and help with making arrangements. We can also help you assess whether your horse has a reasonable quality of life, and to know when to make the decision. e British Horse Society has a scheme called ‘Friends at the End’, where trained volunteers provide support for owners making the decision to euthanase their horse in non-urgent situations. is includes counselling and information given over the phone, and can involve someone being there while the horse is euthanased. Contact: [email protected] or 02476 840517 Most owners prefer euthanasia by injection to the horse. e Vet administers a sedative, then an overdose of drugs which anaesthetises the horse, and stops the heart. e alternative option is a free bul- let, which is instantaneous, although some reflex movements can occur for a few minutes aſterwards. Whatever you decide, we will talk you through the process and do all we can to make a difficult time as easy as possible. We can arrange for the horse to be collected and taken away for cremation/incineration. Private cremation is an option, and burial is sometimes allowed but there are strict regulations, so it is important to contact DEFRA for advice before making this decision. Don’t forget you can talk to us, so feel free to contact the practice for more information or advice. 01 176 01768 483789 Lifelong care for animals providing clinical excellence, knowledge and experience . NEWS August 2013 Contact us: CALDEW VETERINARY HOSPITAL Carlisle House, Townhead Road, Dalston, Carlisle CA5 7JF Tel: 01228 710208 [email protected] TOWNHEAD VETERINARY CENTRE Newbiggin, Stainton, Penrith, CA11 0HT Tel: 01768 483789 [email protected] LONDON ROAD SURGERY 87 London Road Carlisle CA1 2LG Tel: 01228 591005 Euthanasia by Neaera Fletcher BSc (hons) BVMS MRCVS 24 hour emergency service PARAGON VETERINARY GROUP Visit us at: www.paragonvet.com and please ‘like’ our FACEBOOK page www.facebook.com/ParagonVets.Equine
