Preliminary results of a survey about horses’ euthanasia: The point of view of owners

This study aimed to evaluate the emotional impact experienced by owners following euthanasia of their horse. An online questionnaire has been administered to horse owners, including multiple-choice about the relationship with their animal and the acceptance of euthanasia. Data collected (numerical and categorical variables) were analyzed using an appropriate statistical software. A total of 48 owners from Sicily (Italy) participated. 58.3% of participants ranged between 25 and 40 years were female. Causes of euthanasia were referrable mostly to diseases associated with a poor prognosis or irreversible illness (72.9%; n=35). 66.6% (n=32) accepted and understood the reasons for euthanasia as reported in companion animals by other Authors (Bussolari et al., 2018). 95.83% (n=46) stayed with their animal during the procedure. Owners reported emotional disturbances after the euthanasia of their horse: 32.25% (n=15) showed crying fits after euthanasia, 22.9% tended to be alone (n=11), 20.8% had difficulty sleeping (n=10), 35.4% guilt-feeling (n=17), 22.9% felt depressed (n=11), 8.3% anxious (n=4) and 33.3% angry (n=17). A large part (68.75, n=33) presented nightmares. Only 39.58% (n=19) decided to resort to euthanasia with difficulty. In most cases (60.41%, n=29) the respondent deepened his relationship with the horse and the veterinarian. The role of the veterinarian in euthanasia decision-making was fundamental in 56.25% of cases (n=27). 58.3% (n=28) reported that the veterinarian had explained in detail the procedure. In conclusion, horse euthanasia is a difficult and distressing decision. Consequently, the veterinarian plays a central role in decision-making processes (Endenburg, Kirpensteijn, and Sanders, 1999; McGowan et al, 2012).