Document type : Good practice guide published by the FVE/FEEVA
Author : FVE/FEEVA
Preview: This is a technical document for veterinarians on good practice techniques for the euthanasia of horses. It is an addendum to the more general FVE/FEEVA End of Life for horses document, which deals with the more ethical aspects of euthanasia of horses. A method of euthanasia is only acceptable if its effect is guaranteed. It must cause a loss of consciousness before cardiac or respiratory arrest. Loss of consciousness can be achieved by medical or mechanical means (captive bolt gun or captive bolt gun). Secondly, human safety during euthanasia must be considered because of the potential risks and unpredictability of the procedure. Finally, proper disposal of the carcass after euthanasia should be organised and considered before the method of euthanasia is chosen. In general, veterinarians performing euthanasia should assess and attempt to minimise the risk of distress to the animal due to its physical discomfort or environment. The horse should be correctly identified and the owner's consent authenticated before euthanasia is carried out, except in cases where the animal's welfare is severely compromised and the owner cannot be contacted.
