Boyce Ranch

Please vote for Rambo!!! 4 days to go!!

Merry Christmas ❤️❤️❤️

Said goodbye to “gentleman of the barn” today🥲
MOOSE was 34 yrs old!
TESSA was waiting for him💙💙💙

Gizmo’s first halter💙💙💙

🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯

lol

"A Tough Topic - Winter & Euthanasia" with Dr. Becky Tees 🩺

Eu = "well"
Thanatos = "death"
Eu + Thanatos = Euthanasia

Although one of the most tender topics around horse ownership, the Greek origin of the word "euthanasia" literally translates to "a good death". Even though we have the privilege of providing this option to our lifelong friends, it can still be extremely difficult to decide when is the best time to send our companions across the rainbow bridge.

Fall is a time when a lot of people start to worry about how their elderly companions will fare during the upcoming winter. Everyone dreads the thought of waiting too long and having their horse experience undue suffering or a tragic death in the depths of a cold snap or blizzard. If you are in a situation where you are struggling to decide if an autumn euthanasia is the best choice for your horse, here are some considerations that may help:

1. Chronic disease considerations:
Is your horse suffering from a condition that is inducing chronic pain or suffering? Is the disease being managed appropriately? Is pain from disease being managed successfully through shoeing, NSAIDs, or other medications? Is your horse having more good days or more bad days?

2. Body condition:
Does your horse have enough fat stores and a high enough body condition score to withstand the elements through a long winter? If not, do they have an environment (ex. a heated barn) that will protect them during the coldest parts of the season?

3. Feed:
Is your horse's dental health adequate for properly eating the food you have available for them? Is the feed you're offering high enough in quality and quantity to support the unique needs of a senior horse? Does your horse have constant access to their feed source or will they have to compete with herdmates for access to feed?

If you are struggling to answer these questions, or if you are still unsure what is the best choice for you and your horse, we are here to help. Our veterinarians are always available to help you navigate one of the toughest decisions as horse owner. Euthanasia on your terms - performed on a good day, in nice weather, and timed appropriately - can be one of the kindest final gifts you can give to your horse.