What are the acceptable methods of euthanasia for horses?
There are three methods acceptable for the euthanasia of horses: chemical euthanasia, with pentobarbital or a pentobarbital combination (euthanasia solution); gunshot; and penetrating captive bolt. Chemical euthanasia is the best choice for horses, and is preferred by most veterinarians and horse owners. This procedure requires injection of euthanasia solution into the horse’s vein, and the use of an intravenous catheter is recommended to make sure all of the solution is properly injected. Euthanasia solution is a controlled drug, subject to regulation by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and must be stored in locked cabinets when not in use. This is the most expensive form of equine euthanasia. Carcasses of horses euthanatized chemically can potentially contaminate the environment, and pose a significant risk of poisoning for prey species (especially birds) unless they are disposed of or protected from predation in a proper and immediate manner. Nevertheless, chemical e
