It is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly and every horse owner should give the matter their full consideration, though hopefully they will never have to put such arrangements into practice. This leaflet is designed to provide information to those owners who are faced with the distressing, but often inevitable, situation of having to have their animal put-down. The long-term interests and welfare of the horse must outweigh every other consideration.
Face facts calmly and with the determination to do the best possible for the animal.
Though it is a subject which many owners would rather not think about, every horse owner should be fully informed about the methods and welfare considerations of having a horse put-down in order to prevent the horse suffering unnecessary pain and distress. The British Horse Society Welfare Department can provide sympathetic advice and support for horse owners regarding humane destruction. Details of useful contacts and further information are also available. Serious injury, terminal illness or chronic conditions. Where, in the opinion of a veterinary surgeon, a horse will not respond to treatment for any serious injury or condition involving significant pain, or where a horse is in such a condition that it would be cruel to keep it alive, the animal must be destroyed humanely, without unreasonable delay.