Saying Goodbye to a Beloved Horse

with their vet so they understand what to expect and have a plan for the animals disposal. Knowing how the day will progress and having a structure for closure can help them to deal with the stress.
I have been there for rider friends when they have had to put their horses down says Little. Thank goodness for people who understand how much courage it takes how much grief is suffered and how much support and understanding we need to make this horrible decision.
The one blessing of euthanasia is that it is quick and it is painless. 
Anesthesia occurs within a minute of the intravenous lethal dose and the horse falls unconscious Twidale explains. However owners should be prepared for the fact that it takes several minutes before the horse can be declared dead and its body removed. 
During this time there may be involuntary muscle tremors paddling movements and irregular breathing as the horse passes from deep unconsciousness to death says Twidale. I like to cover the horse with a blanket or tarpaulin until it can be removed.
For most horse owners backyard burial is not an option because of environmental regulations. Occasionally and on the recommendation of my vet I have sent my animals to the BC Animal Health Laboratory for autopsy in an attempt to gain clarification when the health complications that led to their death have been unclear. Horses and other animals that are sent to the lab for autopsy are disposed of through cremation. No ashes are returned. But the value of the autopsy report is in the confirmation of the condition that precipitated the need for euthanasia bringing with it the peace of mind and closure that the decision was the right one. 
The torment of struggling to decide when to make that final commitment is something many understand. The cloud hangs like a heavy veil and there seems to be nowhere to turn but to face the crushing emotions of the inevitable.
Kydan turned 18 in June says Little. Ive loved this horse more than I can express. Warts and all hes mine. Hes wonderful handsome loving clever challenging rewarding and the best communication teacher Ive ever had. Ive had to listen with my body and my mind to learn how to speak to him very respectfully with every aid natural or otherwise in order to gain his trust and cooperation. He has been worth every