Page 1100 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

Who can perform euthanasia?

The following people may carry out the procedure:
VetBooks.ir • your vet

• a hunt kennelman

• a knackerman

• a licensed horse slaughterer (www.lassa.org.uk).

Only the vet can administer a lethal injection. The hunt kennelman and knackerman can be

booked in advance and will sometimes attend in an emergency or collect a horse that has
died.

In order for the horse to be slaughtered for human consumption at a licensed abattoir, it
must be fit to travel and accompanied by its passport. The horse must not have received any

medication for the previous six months. Some medicines, e.g. phenylbutazone, are not
permitted at any time if the horse is to be slaughtered for human consumption. Appointments
need to be booked in advance.

Disposal of the carcass

The options for disposal of the carcass are limited and depend on the method of euthanasia

and the health of the horse when it died. Your own vet will advise you on the options
available.

CREMATION

There are many companies that now offer a collection and cremation service. This option is
costly but available regardless of the method of euthanasia. The ashes may be returned in a
special casket if requested.

INCINERATION

This is offered commercially and is also available at some hunt kennels. It is usually cheaper
than cremation.

HUNT KENNELS

Provided the horse was not put down by lethal injection or was not suffering from a disease
making it unsuitable for consumption, many hunts will use the carcass as food for the

hounds.