Equine Euthenasia
Unfortunately there comes a time for many horses when you as an owner must consider euthanasia for humane reasons. We owe it to our friends that when their quality of life has deteriorated due to injury or illness that cannot be alleviated we give them a peaceful end. This can be an extremely difficult decision to make, and should be done in consultation with one of our veterinarians.
You need to decide before the procedure starts whether or not you wish to be present. This is a very personal decision and there is no right or wrong answer – whatever you feel comfortable with. Due to their large size euthanasia of horses is not usually a graceful procedure; however you can rest assured that they will not suffer.
The Euthanasia Process
At Oakford Equine Hospital all our euthanasia’s are performed using a lethal overdose of an anaesthetic. This can be done either at the clinic or on your property. Ideally the euthanasia should be performed in a cleared, grassy area. The horse will then be sedated, which will reduce their anxiety and result in a much smoother euthanasia. They will then be given a second injection, just the same as if they were going to have a general anaesthetic for surgery. After this injection it usually takes about 60 seconds for them to fall down. Prior to going down they may stagger for a few steps in any direction. This may be upsetting if you are seeing it for the first time, but by this stage they are not aware of their surroundings or feeling any pain.
Once they are down the veterinarian will give the lethal injection. Due to their large size, it can take several minutes before death occurs. During this time they may have muscle twitches, paddle their legs and gasp. Once again, the horse is completely unconscious by this stage and is not feeling any pain. The horse is pronounced dead when the heart has stopped beating. The eyes will remain open. There can be occasional muscle twitches after death but these are reflexes only and not a sign of life.
What Happens Afterwards?
There are several options for disposal of the body afterwards. You should decide on which option you would like prior to the euthanasia taking place.
- Southdale – Will come and collect the body from your property and disposed of it. Horses that have been euthanased by lethal injection cannot go for pet meat. Southdale can be contacted on 9399 1146
- Buried on your property – check with the council as to whether this is legal in your area
- Cremation – this can be organized via Lawnswood. If you would like to do this please give them a call on 9248 6464 or visit their website www.lawnswood.com.au
- If you a dropping your horse off at Oakford Equine Hospital to be euthanased we can organize disposal for you.
- If you have any further questions regarding euthanasia, please contact Oakford Equine Hospital on 9397 1114
