Dear Colleagues:

We have entered a new era in veterinary medicine where the “unwanted horse” has become a reality for many practitioners.  An over-population of horses with no market and recent economic crisis has adversely affected the ability of many owners to take proper care of their horse. This has lead to an increase in the abandonment of horses and in some cases, owners, who no longer can afford to care for their horse requesting euthanasia. There are rescue groups, but due to the large number of animals available, placement can be difficult. This has created a dilemma for veterinarians as to the “right’ course of action regarding these horses.

The KVMA office has received numerous requests regarding the ethics of euthanizing these individuals. Fortunately, the AVMA and AAEP have addressed this issue and have policy statements pertaining to the unwanted horse. The AVMA statement reads as follows:

“The AVMA is not opposed to the euthanasia of unwanted animals or those unfit for adoption, when conducted by qualified personnel, using appropriate humane methods as described in the AVMA Guidelines on Euthanasia. (Approved by the AVMA Executive Board, April 2000; revised November 2007)”

The AAEP statement reads as follows:

“Euthanasia Justification – Justification of euthanasia of an insured horse for humane reasons should be based on medical grounds, rather than economic considerations. Furthermore, and in accordance with the AVMA’s position on the euthanasia of unwanted animals, the AAEP is not opposed to the euthanasia of unwanted animals, when appropriate, by properly trained personnel, using acceptable humane methods. (2007)”

Euthanasia can be difficult for both owner and veterinarian alike, but the profession’s view of this being an ethical solution to the problem should help to make this difficult task somewhat easier.

If the KVMA can be of further assistance, please feel free to contact Louise at the KVMA office.

Sincerely,