Euthanasia: When to Say Goodbye to Your Horse

If the worst happened and your horse suddenly got ill or injured, would you know what to do?

Saying goodbye is very difficult but it can help to plan ahead and think what you would do in certain situations.

As horse owners sometimes we are faced with very difficult decisions regarding euthanasia. This is an issue which is more likely with older horses but can occur at any time. Horses can get ill or injured very quickly and unexpectedly so it is a good idea to plan ahead and decide what you would do in certain situations.

World Horse Welfare have produced two leaflets to help make the decision easier.

1. ‘Just in Case: The Facts’ clearly and sensitively explains all aspects of the situation, such as the options available and what to expect, how to make the decision, insurance and legislation issues, and whether you should be there.

2. ‘Just in Case: Owner’s Plan’ provides a clear form which can be completed in advance. You can also use this to be certain everyone knows what choices you would make even if you can’t be contacted in an emergency.