The decision to euthanase
Unfortunately, not every case will respond successfully to treatment. In some cases the disease may have progressed too far or be untreatable, the horse may not accept medication, or may be unsuited to protracted periods of confined rest.
In these cases, vets are guided by the British Equine Veterinary Association Guidelines of Euthanasia. These guidelines are aimed at preventing the inappropriate and uncontrolled suffering of horses. Putting a horse to sleep is a daunting decision but it is occasionally necessary on welfare grounds to prevent further suffering.
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