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Having your horse or pony humanely put to sleep
It may be necessary in the event of old age, ill health or as the result of an accident to have your horse or pony put to sleep to prevent it from suffering pain and distress.
Your veterinary surgeon will be able to help you make a decision on whether the horse still has a good quality of life or whether it would be kinder to have the horse put down. It is important not leave elderly animals to fend for themselves in fields.
It is part of responsible horse ownership to ensure your horse or pony has a dignified end. Horses can be destroyed via either shooting or lethal injection. The first method can be carried out by the local knackerman, kennelman or veterinary surgeon as long as they possess a firearms certificate. Lethal injection can only be carried out by your veterinary surgeon. Both methods are instantaneous and painless; however we find that most owners now prefer lethal injection.
Whatever the method used, there is a significant cost element and the practical consideration of disposal of the body; it is illegal to bury equines in the UK. There are some crematoriums which offer private cremation and the return of ashes; however there is a significant extra cost to this and payment is normally required in advance of the service. We can put you in touch with crematoriums that offer this service if you require.
It is best to discuss the options and cost implications with your veterinary surgeon well in advance of a crisis arising in an elderly horse to allow a sensible plan of action to be formulated.
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