Determining if and when to euthanize a beloved horse is a difficult decision. Having the courage to make compassionate choices is part of being a responsible horse guardian.
Assessing Quality of Life
Quality of life can look very different in every horse. Asking yourself the following questions can be a good place to start when considering your horse’s overall health.
- Are there noticeable behavioural changes in your horse?
- Does your horse have significant pain that cannot be managed?
- Does your horse have difficulties drinking or eating? Are medications not seeming to help?
- Does your horse have difficulty getting up and moving around?
- Is your horse suffering? Will a change in environment (e.g. onset of winter) cause suffering?
If you determine that treatment is an option, consider how lengthy and painful recovery will be, and the quality of life your horse will have post recovery. Although you may be able to prolong your horse’s life, it may not always be the best decision. Your veterinarian can help you make an informed plan.
Consult Your Veterinarian
Having a close relationship with a veterinarian is essential. When you begin to notice changes in your senior horse, consult your veterinarian who can help you determine a treatment plan. Click here to learn more about caring for your senior horse.
Eventually, you may be faced with determining if the injury, disease or even old age requires greater care than you can provide, or the care that you are providing isn’t enough to ensure a good quality of life. In this case, euthanasia may be the best option.
Euthanasia
Once you have decided that euthanasia is the best path forward, consider your options to ensure a humane end to life and reduce suffering. While some euthanasia options might require transporting your horse, your horse must be fit to transport. It is illegal to transport unfit or compromised animals. It is best to discuss options with your veterinarian, who can help assess your horse. Whatever option you decide, ensure it is safe for you and your horse, legal, and minimizes pain, fear and suffering.
Consider other horses that you might be caring for too. Horses are herd animals, and ones left behind might become anxious if left alone. Be sure to prepare for the quality of life of any other equine companions in your care.
Caregivers can form deep connections with their horses, and at times, ensuring their welfare requires difficult yet compassionate choices. Monitoring your horse’s health and having honest conversations about their quality of life with your veterinarian can help ensure their welfare is not compromised before the end of their life.
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