The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has updated guidelines to ensure good welfare is prioritised when horses who are insured for mortality are put to sleep.
Guidelines for the Euthanasia of Insured Horses has been developed for practicing vets in response to a need for updated clarity during these potentially complicated scenarios.
While the advice – incorporating the expertise of vets as well as representatives from the insurance industry – has been written for vets, it is anticipated that it will also be a valuable for owners, insurers, trainers and event and race organisers.
The guidelines reflect updates in veterinary science and clinical knowledge over the past 15 years and cover examination procedures, protocols for definite and suspected grounds for emergency euthanasia, as well as defining where there may not be grounds for emergency euthanasia.
It also addresses the management of cases of chronic disease and/or pain with little prospect of recovery.
Whilst the list is not exhaustive, it aims to include all the scenarios which are likely to be encountered by vets working in equine practice in the UK.
“The veterinary surgeon’s primary responsibility is undoubtably to ensure the welfare of the horse, regardless of whether the horse is insured,” said Ian Beamish, who led BEVA’s guidelines working group.
“The new guidelines are a modernised version of the outdated 2009 guidelines, with a carefully revised List of Conditions and their prognoses, updated language, and revised protocols on grounds for euthanasia.
“It is important to note that whilst we may advise euthanasia, we may not advise on the insurance policy conditions; this is a matter for the insured and insurer to discuss.
“We are grateful to the vets and insurance industry representatives who contributed to the development of the guidelines. Their input has been invaluable in helping to create a modern, practical, welfare-focused resource for the profession.”
The new guidelines can be found here.
Lead image by CVS
