When Autumn comes around, it’s the time of year when those who keep horses often have a tough decision to make.
Perhaps many weeks have gone by, where the question of whether a beloved horse or pony should see another winter has been on your mind?
In the UK today, horses, ponies, donkeys and mules are primarily kept as pets and as such, are very special indeed to the people who own them.
The relationship we enjoy with the equine species is unmatched and these animals are often as precious to us as our friends and family.
Understandably, to consider the loss of an animal which is such an important part of our lives is unthinkable to many people, even when the health of an equine partner may be compromised.
Add to this, the current situation in which many people find themselves, struggling financially – and the pressure becomes all the more stressful.
As such, we at Here4Horses believe that delayed euthanasia presents a significant horse welfare problem in the UK.
However painful the decision might be, we must all regard humane, timely euthanasia, to be the supreme act of kindness we can bestow on any animal in our care.
The trees are about to tell us how important it can be to let things go.
The greatest test for all of us is to understand when the time is right – sometimes we are blinded by emotion and fail to see that our horse is suffering.
Chronic lameness, difficulty maintaining weight and bouts of colic are just some of the warning signs that your horse is suffering.
At Here4Horses, the team all struggle, every time the decision needs to be made and fully understand the turmoil owners might be dealing with.
If you are facing difficult decisions and would appreciate friendly help or advice, then please contact us via our website and an experienced member of the team will be in touch.
