how do u know when it times to put a horse down?

Question

what are signs to put a horse down, i mean i asked the vet and she said u just know.

i have 4 old horses all are starting to show signs of aging and slowing down, but how do u know for sure where its time.

i know this is a hard question.

but any suggestions will help.

thanks

i have decieded to keep her around longer, can`t bear the idea of putting her down that will be hard to do..

we have been together now for 13 years she was a abused horse and had many bad experinces, her trail is broken, she has a scar on her but from a poorly stiching job.
we have bonded and this mare will let me do anything to her. i can give her needles, lead her anywhere, she trusts me.


i have learnt everything i know from her.

Answer 1

When a horse is in pain, can't keep its weight despite special feeds, and is suffering in any way - perform the final kindness.

But if the horse is happy and healthy, aside from being old, let him live!

Answer 2

When it is in obvious pain that cannot be relieved. Just because they are old is no reason to end their lives. that`s barbaric. I used to own 2 horses when I was a kid. One of them had to be put down because of a broken leg. The other one was so hearbroken when he was gone, she would search for him constantly when I`d go riding, she went gray practically overnight, etc. bottom line is horses form attachments just as people do. don`t take them away from each other, let them enjoy their remaining years together if at all possible. They deserve it.

Answer 3

We had a pony that was 33 put down no my birthday this year. He had seizures but looking back I should have done it sooner. He was crippled with arthritis and it was so hard for him to move. He ate well but it had to be softened to the point of bing mush and he had a hard time with regular hay so the hay cubes had to be watered down too.
As was said before - when the quality of life for the animal reaches a point that there is no joy in their life then it is time.
It took less than a minute for his heart to stop beating and he had his head laid in my lap when he went. It was sad but the right thing to do.

Answer 4

unfortunately the answer is not one that is set in stone or in black or white. Having numerous horses, we have had to make that decision. It usually comes down to what is fair to that horse. Most of our situations have come from old age. We had a horse that was 36. She was older that me. She was cast in her stall and it took a toll quickly on her muscles and joints after we got her up. We found out from our vet she had developed a heart murmor prior to this occassion and that was her weakening down fall. Nothing makes this decision easier but knowing that they will be more at ease in a better place.

Answer 5

When they do not seem to enjoy any of the things that they normally like to do. If they are not eating much, or walking around much. If they do not get excited to see you. You can look in an animal's eyes too and if it seems like the light has gone out of their eyes, it is time.

Answer 6

Well, when the light is gone from their eyes... when they are in pain, and when they just kind of stop living life and start existing in life. If they are not in pain, they still get around on their own ok, and they are still somewhat happy acting... then it is not time. Just keep in mind their quality of life.

Answer 7

when your horse gets lame as in movement and the signals aren't the same as usall. ur horse may have trouble breathing or is not eating. but always check with your vet first b cuz ur horse may just have colic from those signals too.

Answer 8

Your vet is right, you just feel it. I'm sorry for you, but it's true.

Answer 9

when they can't do the work they are needed for