All horses, when they die, must be disposed of immediately with very few exceptions and they must be delivered to a premises approved for proper collection and disposal of animal carcasses. In some, usually high horse density areas, private businesses and/or veterinary practices have their own disposal service.
- What happens to a horse after it dies? All horses, when they die, must be disposed of immediately with very few exceptions and they must be delivered to a premises approved for proper collection and disposal of animal carcasses. Some local authorities may provide exemptions on the grounds that your horse or pony was kept as a pet.
How do farmers dispose of dead horses?
Static pile composting of dead, intact horses and livestock is a management practice that can fit into most livestock farms. The practice does require space on your land to construct the compost piles and takes from six to 12 months for the animal to decompose.
Do horses go to heaven?
Heaven is a state of being and it is also a physical place. Horses most definitely go to heaven.
Are horses buried or cremated?
Pet cemeteries sometime offer horse burial. Cremation: A typical burn pile does not burn at high enough heat to handle a horse carcass. Many cremation facilities can accommodate horses. Composting horse carcasses is illegal in some places and limited by weight in others.
What to do with a horse after it dies?
What to do if Your Horse Dies
- Burial. If you own your own land, burial may be an option for you.
- Burning. This can be done, but we don’t recommend it!
- Cremation. You may be able to have your horse cremated, but this may cost anywhere from $500 – $1,500.
- Landfill.
- Rendering.
- Pet Cemeteries.
Is it legal to bury a dead horse?
Burial. Regulations on horse burial vary from state to state, and within states, from locality to locality. Many jurisdictions require the burial site be no fewer than 100 yards from wells, streams, and other water sources; and in some locales, it is illegal to bury a chemically euthanized horse.
Will our pets be in heaven?
Indeed, the Bible does confirm that there are animals in Heaven. Isaiah 11:6 describes several types (predator and prey) living in peace with one another. If God created animals for the Garden of Eden to give us a picture of His ideal place, He will surely include them in Heaven, God’s perfect new Eden!
How are dead horses removed?
The horse becomes anesthetized (and therefore unconscious) to such a degree that its heart stops beating and death follows. If it is used then the carcass must be disposed of either by burying (see below) or cremation. It cannot be used for human consumption or animal food.
Why are horses buried facing east?
Obviously rural western states have slightly more lax laws, but due to possible water contamination and smel The traditional Christian method of positioning the coffin or shroud covered body in the grave was to have the body with the head to the west, feet to the east.
How deep is a horse grave?
The hole you need to bury a horse in doesn’t need to be any deeper than the hole for a human—depending on the local rules, between two feet to twelve feet —but lots longer to fit the body. Bear in mind that you don’t want to find predators have dug up the corpse, so make it a little deeper than the typical two feet.
Can I bury my horse on my land?
Q Can I bury my horse/pony or donkey? Horses that are kept as pets can be buried provided the owner, obtains the agreement of their local authority and follows its advice. The local authority has to agree that the horse is a pet rather than livestock, which can not be buried.
Where can I take my dead horse?
Memorial Pet Care (serves the Continental U.S.) Landfills that Accept Equine Carcasses: * Waste Management® accepts equine carcasses at some, but not all locations. To find out if your local Waste Management location will take horse carcasses, please contact them: 800-963-4776.
Do horses grieve?
Horses may not experience all of the facets of grief that humans do but they do grieve in their own way. They don’t miss many of the same types of things we miss such as Twister’s snowy white rump, or his eyes so full of expression.
What to Do After Your Horse Dies
However, while many people are aware that they will need to make end-of-life decisions for themselves and their loved ones, it is equally as crucial to prepare for the loss of your four-legged family members. Although burying a dog or cat on your property in the country may be permitted, burying a horse on your land–and ensuring that it is legal–can become a bit more problematic due to the size of the animal. World Horse Welfare provides resources for horses that are nearing the end of their lives.
After you’ve said your final goodbyes, you have a few alternatives to think about.
Horse Burial
In order to bury an animal that may weigh upwards of 1,000 pounds, a massive hole must be created, and even in the best of soil conditions, this hole will be impossible to dig by hand in most cases. Knowing how and who will bury your horse can help to guarantee that you are not left with a deceased horse on your property for any longer than is absolutely required. It’s likely that if you reside in an agricultural region, word of mouth will be the most effective method of determining who has a piece of machinery (think backhoe, tractor, or tractor with a bucket) that can dig you a hole when you need it.
- Here are some things to think about: Consider whether the owner of the land where you board your horse will allow you to bury your horse on his or her property.
- If they reject, don’t take it personally, but keep in mind that you’ll need to plan for Plan B.
- Make certain that the driver is familiar with the roads that you will want them to travel on, and inquire about the cost of a delivery and rental fee, which may vary depending on the distance the machine must go and the length of time it is being hired from them.
- If you live within city limits but are in an agricultural zone, you will need to check with local ordinances to determine whether you can lawfully inter your horse on your farm.
- While burial your horse on your property will provide you with a place to go and grieve the death of your beloved animal, it also comes with its own set of risks and hazards that must be considered.
- In Kentucky, the cost of hiring the equipment, having it delivered, and having someone run it might range between $200 and $400 on average, depending on the situation.
Preparing ahead of time and inquiring with the equipment operator about whether or not you need to be present might help you avoid some potentially frightening scenes.
Carcass Removal
It is possible to find services that will come to your farm and pick up your deceased horse, whether you prefer not to bury him on your property or you want assistance transporting him to the location where he will be cremated. Numerous services, including removal, burial, and cremation, are provided by many of these businesses. Each of these services has a corresponding price, which may vary depending on where you live in the country. If you reside in an area where horses cannot be buried on the premises, it may be necessary to have the horse removed.
A major advantage of hiring a business to come to your home to remove your animal is that you are typically not need to be there for the service to be performed.
Many times, the cost of removal is comprised of a predetermined price (usually starting at $100) plus mileage, which is normally charged at a rate of $1 per mile traveled.
Horse Cremation
Horse cremation services are provided by a large number of state laboratories, equestrian clinics, and even some private companies. If you want to employ this approach, you will need to arrange for the transportation of your horse’s body to the facility. When looking for a local equine cremation, word of mouth and web searches are the most effective methods of discovery. Many people will be able to share their own experiences with the companies in the area with you. In addition, you have the option of selecting an urn that holds special importance for you to hold your horse’s ashes once they have been returned to you.
During your conversation with the crematorium, it may be good to inquire as to whether or not the ashes you get will be entirely from your horse; some services cremate numerous horses at the same time, meaning that the ashes given to you may not be solely from your horse.
See additional suggestions for memorials for your horse in this article.
Make careful to find out how much it will cost to have your horse cremated up front so that you aren’t caught off guard when the bill arrives.
The fact that you make decisions now, before they become required, will guarantee that you have one less tough decision to make when it comes time to say goodbye to your closest friend in the future.
What to do if Your Horse Dies
When Your Horse Passes Away: What to Do Neither Bluebonnet Equine Humane Society nor any of the companies represented on this page have been vetted, verified, or recommended. We’re offering this information to horse owners as a starting point in the event that they require assistance with a deceased horse. Unfortunately, accidents, injuries, and old age steal far too many of our equine companions’ lives before they may be reunited with their owners. Unfortunately, many horse owners are baffled as to what to do with their horse’s carcass.
Burial
If you own your own land, you may be able to have a burial ceremony there. Before you make any arrangements to bury your horse, however, you should check with the county or city where you reside to ensure that there are no regulations prohibiting you from doing so. Backhoes are available for rent or hiring, and you will need a tractor to pull your horse into the hole once it has been dug. Whether or not you need to rent or hire a backhoe will determine how much it will cost you to bury someone.
They may be able to provide you with assistance.
Burning
Even if this is possible, we do not encourage it! It takes an incredible quantity of wood to finish the process, and it might take days or even weeks to complete. In addition, the stink is virtually intolerable to be around.
Cremation
You may be able to arrange for your horse to be cremated, but this will likely cost you between $500 and $1,500. Live Oak Pet Services, Inc. is located 45 miles north-west of Houston and 25 miles south of College Station, Texas. 936-873-2564 Pine Hill PetHorse Cemetery and Crematory3020 Hwy 81 NBowie, TX 76230940-872-4701 Pine Hill PetHorse Cemetery and Crematory Pet memorial and cremation services provided by the best. (713) 205-3598 Wallis, Texas RAINBOW BRIDGE OF TEXAS (512-312-4622)CELL: 512-217-9664www.RainbowBridgeofTexas.com Rainbow Bridge of Texas 28232 FM 2920 Rd.Waller, TX 77484936-931-2900 South Central Equine Crematory (located on the grounds of the Waller Equine Hospital)28232 FM 2920 Rd.Waller, TX 7748 If you are aware of any horse cremation services, please let us know about them.
Landfill
You may be able to arrange for your horse to be cremated, but this would likely cost between $500 and $1,500 in most cases. Pet Services by Live Oak is located 45 miles northwest of Houston and 25 miles south of College Station. 936-873-2564 PetHorse Cemetery and Crematory3020 Highway 81 NorthBowie, TX 76230940-872-4701 Pine Hill PetHorse Cemetery and Crematory Pet memorial and cremation service provider of choice (713) 205-3598, Wallis, Texas RAINBOW BRIDGE OF TEXAS (512-312-4622) CELL: 512-217-9664 www.RainbowBridgeofTexas.com Rainbow Bridge of Texas 28232 FM 2920 Rd.Waller, TX 77484936-931-2900 South Central Equine Crematory(located on the grounds of the Waller Equine Hospital)28232 FM 2920 Rd.Waller, TX 7748 Please get in touch with us if you know of any horse cremation services.
Rendering
Rendering services will transport the carcass of your horse to a “recycling facility.” Animals that consume carnivorous plants will have their flesh processed, and they will also use the skin, hooves, and bones for a variety of products. Horse-rendering services are required to take up your horse’s carcass as quickly as possible, and many will charge you for this service. Texas Bi-Product is located at 515 Pontiac Avenue in Dallas, Texas, in Dallas County. 214.943.6300 Stock Removal in the East Texas Region Route 6 270 is a one-way street.
- state of Georgia.
- Erath County is responsible for the removal of Dublin stock.
- Taylor County is served by Abilene Bi-products.
- A division of Stratford Bi-Products, located in Sherman County.
- Josephine, Texas P.O.
- Canutillo, Texas (P.O.
- Ken Jowers is a writer and musician from the United Kingdom.
- Call us seven days a week.
- Resources for the Recovering of Livestock Robert Kaylor may be reached at (972) 971-4812.
Pet Cemeteries
Horses are allowed to be buried in certain pet cemetery. Some will come and take up your horse’s body, while others may direct you to someone who may assist you in transporting your horse to the cemetery on your behalf. Bluebonnet Pet Cemetary2720 Bryson RoadMansfield, [email protected] Bluebonnet Pet Cemetary2720 Bryson RoadMansfield, Texas 817-335-9051 is the phone number. Pine Hill Pet CemeteryPine Hill Pet Inc.3020 Highway 81 NBowie, Texas 76230-6347940-872-47011-800-219-PETSwww.pinehillpet.comPine Hill Pet Inc.3020 Highway 81 NBowie, Texas 76230-6347940-872-47011-800-219-PETS In the event that you know of any horse-friendly pet cemetery, please let us know and we will include them on our list.
What to Do With a Dead Horse: A Strategic Guide
Any links on this page that direct you to things on Amazon are affiliate links, which means that if you make a purchase, I will receive a compensation. Thank you in advance for your assistance — I much appreciate it! It is likely that you feel as though you have lost a dear friend as a result of your horse’s death, and you haven’t given much consideration to what you will do with its remains. I’ve been in this situation myself, and I’ve looked at many solutions for dealing with a dead horse. After your veterinarian has confirmed the reason of your dead horse’s death, you may make arrangements for its disposal via him or her.
Horses are a beloved member of many people’s households and are regarded as reliable friends.
And then there’s the situation where your horse passes away and you have to dispose of its body. That’s why we’re here; this essay will explain how to get rid of them in the most environmentally friendly manner.
The different ways to dispose of a dead horse.
Horses are lovely creatures, but they also come with some sad truths, one of which is mortality, which they must face. He and his family were devastated when a promising young horse died as a result of pneumonia complications; my buddy was among those who suffered. The death of a horse is an unavoidable fact of life. After getting off the bus, I looked up to see my grandpa standing in our pasture, staring down at his buckskin that had been laying still on the ground. It was my first memory of this encounter.
Grandpa did not want us to waste time grieving for him because we needed to dispose of his corpse before it went bad.
Burial
When thebuckskindied, we didn’t have to be concerned about following the rules. Using a tractor, we transported him deep into the woods, where we excavated a large, broad grave for our friend to rest in. Today, burying a horse just about anyplace is not an option since there are regulations governing where animals can be buried in certain areas. Despite the fact that these restrictions add to the administrative burden on people who wish to bury their horses, they also aid in the prevention of sickness and contaminants from spreading further in our ecosystem.
Because of the numerous restrictions placed on burial places, it is essential to be familiar with your local regulations before burying a horse.
How to bury a horse-What you need
- Check with your local government to see what rules and restrictions apply to animal burial: To find out what rules apply to animal funerals in your area, contact your local authorities or state agriculture departments. You may also go to their website and look under “Animal Ordinances” for further information. Select a location: Choosing a location for your horse’s burial should be done with consideration. Chose high ground if at all possible, and be sure that the spot you choose does not have any subsurface risks such as gas lines, water pipelines, or other utilities nearby. Consider choosing a location outside of your pasture if you have a choice. Make a hole in the ground: The pit required for horse burial must be substantial, often more than six feet deep and around seven feet square. You have two options for doing this task: hire someone or rent a backhoe. When it comes to moving the horse’s remains into the grave, a backhoe comes in handy. The last stages are as follows: Make use of a backhoe to transport your horse and any keepsakes to its last resting place. Once this is completed, fill the hole with water. Take a minute to say farewell one final time to your horse’s bones as they are laid to rest in the grave. This is a difficult responsibility for any horse owner
- Take as much time as you need to say goodbye to your horse.
Landfills
It was the first time I had transported a dead horse to a dump, so I reached out to our local facility and was astonished to learn that they accept horse corpses for free. To be clear, you do not require any special permissions or authorizations of any kind. The deceased animal must be loaded into the landfill, which is the most difficult challenge to overcome. It would be preferable if you had access to a backhoe for loading your horse. Once you arrive at the dumpsite, staff will be on hand to assist you in unloading the animal.
Incineration/Cremation
I’m not familiar with the process of cremating a horse. As a result, I needed to conduct some study on this. He reached out to LovedPets in Royal Oaks, California, where he chatted with James. He contributed a great deal of useful information, such as the following: It costs $1,250 for normal horses and $850 for ponies. A draft or warmblood horse costs somewhat more, at roughly $1,500 to $1,600 dollars per horse. From the time your loved ones come at their facility, LovedPets makes it a point to treat them with decency and respect.
They never chop up a horse before the cremation.
After the ashes have been incinerated, they will offer you with all of the appropriate urns for your ashes, as well as the option of having photos placed on the urns if you so wish, so that you may honor the life of your beloved equine partner.
Unfortunately, I was unable to locate any local companies that provide cremation services in a similar manner as LovedPets-so if you want your horse cremated and do not reside in California, you will need to go online or speak with your veterinarian for assistance.
Alternative horse disposal methods.
- Animal rendering is the process of breaking down an animal into items such as bone meal, which may then be utilized for animal feed and supplements. Composting a horse is a time-consuming procedure that can take up to ten months and is not recommended. While doing so has its drawbacks, there are some advantages: the horse’s corpse decomposes producing rich soil that may be used as fertilizer for plants
- An animal corpse is transformed into harmless and sterile byproducts, which may then be utilized as fertilizer, using a biodigester, which is a revolutionary machine.
How to comfort a dying horse
As horse owners, we acknowledge that we have the duty of making decisions about the health and well-being of our animals. The majority of these options are basic, such as which hay to use or how much time we’ll devote to educating the animals. The responsibility of horse ownership comes with tough decisions, such as those related to geriatric and end-of-life care for your horse. There may be differences in how each individual approaches things, and the best option for one horse owner may not be the best one for another.
- Do something extra special: You may spend additional time grooming, stroking, and providing your horse with treats that he or she enjoys, for example. Make sure you don’t offer them anything that might irritate their digestive system (be cautious). Take your horse for a ride: If your horse is still ambulatory and competent, take it on a special excursion or stroll to give it some exercise and enjoyment. Make an effort to be present: Because a horse and its owner have a strong link, you should spend as much time as possible with your animal during his final days on earth. Maintain your composure: It is important to be patient and keep calm when a horse is in terrible form
- Otherwise, the horse will become depressed and become uncooperative. Your animal companions can sense when you’re sad, and this will only make them feel worse.
It’s possible that your horse’s life is in its closing hours, but it doesn’t have to end in suffering. In order to prevent your animal from suffering in their final days, your veterinarian can prescribe medicine for them. Your veterinarian may also offer methods of providing comfort or euthanasia as a compassionate alternative when the time comes.
How to make the decision whether or not to put down an animal
Putting your sick horse down may be on your list of priorities if he or she is acting unwell. However, before you make your final selection, consider the following questions to assist you:
- How long has the horse been suffering from his illness? In the case of an elderly horse who has been sick for a long period of time, it may be necessary to put him down. Is your horse still having a good time? Is he or she satisfied despite the fact that they are unable to participate in all of the activities they used to because of their illness or injury? Is it really essential for my horse to suffer any longer than is absolutely required? When it comes to your animal, you should always do what is best for them — if they’re in agony and displaying symptoms of impending death, putting them down may be the most humanitarian thing you can do for them.
FAQ
Can you tell me how long the horse has been sick? In the case of an elderly horse that has been sick for a long period of time, it may be necessary to put him down. What is the quality of your horse’s life like these days? Is he or she content, even if they are unable to participate in all of the activities they used to because of illness or injury? Is it really essential for my horse to suffer any longer than is absolutely required for him? When it comes to your animal, you should always do what is best for them – if they’re in agony and displaying symptoms of impending death, putting them down may be the most compassionate option available to you.
What is the dead horse theory?
The dead horse notion is based on a Native American adage, which states that when you discover that your “horse” isn’t going anywhere, it’s time to get off and go somewhere else. It is possible for life to change at any point in time, and we must learn to adapt when things do not go our way.
Do horses know when another horse dies?
Horses are herd animals, and they build strong ties with their companions. When other members of their group are injured, sick, or die, they frequently display indications of anxiety or sadness. It is unclear if horses express grief when another dies, but I believe they are aware when another has passed away.
What Do Ranchers Do When A Horse Dies? — Farm & Animals
Your personal end-of-life arrangements, from where you will be buried to what will happen logistically following your death, are almost certainly something you’ve thought about in some detail. What, on the other hand, do ranchers do when a horse passes away? In this piece, we’ll guide you through some of the most prevalent circumstances, so that you may be better prepared if something like this happens to you in the future as well.
What Happens When a Horse Passes Away?
When your horse passes away, the first thing you should do is give yourself some space to grieve. Keeping horses for a variety of purposes is common, including as labor animals, for show and athletic competition, and, more frequently, for pleasure riding and companionship. Understanding how tough it will be to deal with the loss of a horse will be difficult for everyone who owns a horse. Allow yourself some time to come to grips with the idea that you have misplaced your companion animal. Knowing your horse was sick or damaged, you may have made the decision to put it down, whether with the help of a veterinarian or on your own (typically, by shooting it).
It may be necessary to do a post-mortem examination if it is unclear how or why the horse died.
If your horse’s euthanasia was performed by a veterinarian, you should contact them as soon as possible after the horse’s death. It is common for veterinarians to be able to arrange for the disposal of carcasses.
What Do Farmers Do With Dead Animals?
When it comes to dealing with deceased animals, whether they be cows, chickens, pigs, lambs or another species of livestock, there are various options available to farmers. When animals must be killed due to an accident (and not necessarily due to a communicable illness), many farmers prefer to simply butcher the animal and then consume or sell the meat. This generates little to no waste and, in certain cases, needs less work than burying an animal, which can be time-consuming. This will not be an option for animals such as horses, who are unable to stand on their own.
Among the most popular possibilities are:
What Do Ranchers Do with a Dead Horse?
Ranchers can get rid of deceased horses in a variety of ways, depending on their situation. Here are a few of the most often encountered.
Carcass Removal Options
Services that will come to your location and remove the deceased horse are available to the majority of individuals in most places. Despite the fact that it will almost certainly cost money, it is frequently the most convenient option in terms of emotional weight and logistical considerations. Often, the service will remove the horse and either bury or cremate it, depending on the circumstances. A horse corpse disposal service may be your best option if you reside in a region where burial of horses is not permitted.
Cremating or Incinerating a Dead Horse
The burning of a horse’s remains is a popular technique of disposing of its remnants. The corpse of a horse must not be burnt in an open-air fire while using this approach, since this can have a negative impact on air quality. Consult with your local Environmental Protection Agency and Forest Services to determine what is and is not permitted in your region. It is possible that you may need a permission in order to dispose of a horse’s body in this manner in some instances.
Can You Bring a Horse to the Landfill?
It may seem strange, but in some areas, you may legally dispose of a horse’s body in a landfill. Even while this isn’t permitted everywhere, it’s worth checking with your local dump to see whether it’s something that may be accomplished in your particular case.
Should I Call a Rendering Facility?
It is also possible to send the carcass to an animal rendering business as an alternative to burying it. This implies that the waste tissue from a horse corpse is transformed into usable commodities (typically items like dog food) at a licensed facility after the animal has been slaughtered. If your horse is located away from the animal housing area, the facility may be able to pick it up for you at no charge.
Is it Legal to Bury a Dead Horse?
In the majority of circumstances, it is permissible to bury a deceased horse. However, from a logistical standpoint, this is one of the most challenging methods of dealing with the corpse. Horses are quite hefty, and this is the explanation for this situation. A massive hole and a large machine will be required to move the body of most of them, which weigh in at more over 1,000 pounds on average. Even in the finest of soil conditions, digging such a hole will be impracticable and time-consuming.
- You could hire someone to do this for you, but it would be rather expensive.
- If you own your land and your farm is located in a distant area, you’ll need to be certain that you can get the equipment to the location where the hole has to be excavated.
- People who were held for commercial purposes are not permitted to be buried.
- Trench burying is a straightforward process that is frequently the best solution for small-scale farmers.
Some municipalities will not allow horses to be buried within a certain distance of a residence for concern that the waste may contaminate the water supply.
Plan Ahead for the Unexpected
When burying a dead horse, it is generally acceptable. However, this is one of the most difficult methods of dealing with the body from a logistical standpoint. Horses are extremely heavy, and this is the reason for it. A large hole and a large machine will be required to move the body of most of them, which weigh in at over 1,000 pounds on average. Even in the best of soil conditions, it will be impossible to dig such a hole. To dig the hole, you’ll need heavy-duty equipment such as a tractor with a bucket or a backhoe.
- You should also not assume that the owner of the land where you board your horse will allow you to bury your horse there if you don’t own the land outright where you board it.
- Unless a horse was kept as a pet, it is not legal to bury a horse in some areas unless it was buried with the owner’s permission.
- There are generally two types of burial options available if you decide to bury someone: trench burial and landfill burial (as discussed above).
- The final point to make is that if you live within city limits, even if your property is zoned agriculturally, you must check with your local authorities to determine whether or not you can legally bury your horse on your property.
What to Do When Your Horse Dies
Published at 17:45 UTC. hinHealth,Horse Care,Horse Training No horse owner ever likes to think of the day when their horse will pass away; these animals have grown like family to us as we journey through life’s seasons, and the prospect of losing them may be nearly unbearable. The importance of having a plan for when the time comes cannot be overstated. This can assist you in psychologically preparing, as well as financially and logistically. So, what do you do when your horse dies or appears to be on the verge of dying?
- Make contact with your horse insurance provider. Make a strategy for the removal of the body
- Having a memento to help you remember your horse is important.
However, these issues must be discussed, and writing this post has been as difficult as reading it has been! It happens all too often that horse owners are left in the dark until their animal unexpectedly dies. They are attempting to sort out financial and logistical issues while also coping with a tremendous amount of emotional stress. Having a strategy in place does not suggest that you must think about it constantly; rather, it just implies that you will be prepared and understanding when the time comes.
Knowing the many alternatives available for each of the aforementioned aspects will assist you in selecting the most appropriate method of sending your horse out.
Contact Your Horse Insurer
Although not all horse owners choose to insure their horses, if you are one of those who has done so, you should keep this in mind when the time comes for your horse to go on to better pastures. If you are not one of those who has done so, you should consider doing so. It is possible that the insurance provider will reimburse you for the purchase price of your horse in some cases. If your horse is insured, there are a few things to bear in mind:
- To document the deceased’s corpse, especially if there are injuries or indicators of the cause of death, take photographs of the body. Obtain a copy of the veterinarian’s report and the results of any tests
- Wait for additional instructions from an insurance adjuster before disposing of the body
- Else, you might face legal consequences.
As with any insurance business, the insurer of your horse will want documentation of death as well as the reason of death in order to be able to proceed with compensating you.
Take Pictures of the Body
Your insurer will want documentation demonstrating that the horse who died was the one who was covered. As a last resort, if photographing the horse is too difficult, have the veterinarian or a friend photograph the animal’s physique as well as any distinguishing characteristics that will aid in identifying the horse. If your horse has to be put down or died unexpectedly due to injuries, take photographs of the outside damage done to the body to document the situation. If the cause of death was internal, such as colic, autopsy images can clearly demonstrate the extent of the damage.
There will be an inquiry into the incident, as there is with any insurance claim, to ensure that there was no foul play.
Get a Vet Record/Statement
In order to prove that the horse was inspected or euthanized, obtain a statement or record from the veterinarian who performed the procedure. All veterinarians should keep a record of the animals they have euthanized and the reasons for doing so. This statement will assist you in advancing your case with the insurance provider. I’ve found that vets are really understanding when it comes to these kind of situations, so it’s never a bad idea to seek their assistance.
Wait for the Adjuster Before Removing the Body
Finally, if your horse has died away, you should wait to be contacted and advised by an insurance adjuster before disposing of the horse’s remains in any way. They may seek additional evidence that the horse in question is the same animal that is covered. An adjuster may even come out to the premises to inspect the body if the situation calls for it.
Have A Plan For Body Removal
Horses are enormous, there is no doubt about it. A horse cannot be buried or cremated in the same way that a dog or a cat may be. Some states have rules in place regarding the disposal of big animals, which would include horses. Finding out about your state’s regulations ahead of time, understanding your financial situation, and being aware of your alternatives may all make this process much simpler. The following are the most popular methods of removing a horse’s body after it has died away: Investigate your alternatives ahead of time in order to make a selection that will leave you at ease and with fond recollections of your experience.
Burial
Choosing to bury your horse’s remains appears to be one of the more calm alternatives available on this list; unfortunately, this option is only available in certain states. Some states outright forbid the burial of big animals, while others control the depth to which the animal must be buried, and still others regulate both. Before making a choice, do some research on the subject. Do you own the land on which the horse will be buried? If so, please tell me. The process of burying a horse will be considerably simpler if you possess land that may be designated for this purpose.
If you’re keen on using this approach but don’t have the means to bury the horse, you could want to consider pet cemetery.
Except if you own a backhoe, you’ll have to pay a rental fee to have one delivered.
Depending on the time of year, this might amount to several hundred dollars every day. When it comes to relocating the corpse, you may need to rent a different type of tractor that has the capability of winching the body up and transporting it.
Cremation
Cremation is another option that is more pleasant to consider. With cremation, you have complete control over where and when to scatter the ashes; there is no need to hasten the process. When it comes to cremation, there are several animal and horse clinics that provide the service, so if this is an option you’d want to pursue, your veterinarian may likely refer you to one in your region. One of the most difficult aspects of cremation is figuring out how you’re going to transport the horse’s body to the Crematory.
There, they’ll be able to use all of the technology and equipment they’ll need to carry the corpse to the location where it will be incinerated.
The cost of cremating your horse can be anywhere from $1500 to $3500 depending on the circumstances.
Burning
When compared to cremation, burning your horse’s body is a more cost-effective alternative. If this is the approach you pick, you’ll want to check with your state’s regulations first, since some may prohibit the burning of animal bodies altogether. If not, at the very least alert the local fire department of your plans, since you’ll need to start a significant fire to accomplish your goal. Believe it or not, I’ve heard that this method of removing the horse’s body is used by a far greater number of individuals than you’d expect.
Because the fire will have to burn for a few hours, someone will have to set out some time to simply stand by and observe.
Landfill
It is also possible to remove the body of a horse for a low cost by transporting it to a nearby dump. Personally, I can’t image ever doing something like this, but I understand if you don’t have the financial means to do so. However, you should always phone ahead and double-check before making the trip to the dump to ensure that it will accept animal carcasses. One of the difficulties in pursuing this option would be determining the best method of transporting the horse’s body from the farm to the disposal site.
In any case, this isn’t a very nice concept to ponder for an extended period of time, so we’ll move on.
Have A Keepsake to Remember Your Horse
When you lose your horse, it’s like if you’ve lost a closest friend who has become your companion. They carried you safely on their backs and offered their utmost to ensure your safety. You may be concerned that, once your horse has passed away, you will rapidly forget all of the memories that you have had with him or her.
By possessing a souvenir of your horse, you may ensure that your memories of your horse will carry on in perpetuity. Listed below are the most typical souvenirs that horse owners have shared with me:
- A diary of recollections
- A halter for your horse
- Nameplate jewelry
- A collage
- And so forth.
Take as many souvenirs as you wish since these objects will remain close to your heart for a long time. A method to keep in mind the happy times you had together and the adventure you went on together is to create artwork.
Keep a Journal of Memories
When it comes to remembering your horses who have passed away, keeping a diary of recollections is a fantastic way to reflect back and see what you and your horse have been through and conquered is a terrific idea. Whether it’s bonding with our horse or putting our abilities to the test, we all have those times that seem almost like defining moments when it comes to horse ownership. Keeping a journal of those memories can assist you in being able to look back on the life of your beloved horse and not experience a feeling of loss, but rather a sense of pride and success instead.
Keep Your Horse’s Halter
The halter is a piece of equestrian equipment that is sometimes ignored yet has significant symbolic significance. When it comes to horses, halters appear to represent a symbol of ownership. I am extremely selective about the halters I use on certain horses; I will only use the halter that has been specifically designed for that particular horse. It’s a strange equestrian phenomenon. Once your horse has died away, you can preserve their halter as a memento of the relationship you shared with them.
Have Their Name Plate Made into Jewelry
Making a bracelet out of a stall or halter nameplate is an elegant and meaningful remembrance for the horse lover in your life. You’ll be able to wear something special that is near to your heart if you have this souvenir. A large number of internet firms are available to create this remembrance for you.
Make a Collage
A picture collage is a wonderful way to commemorate your horse’s life! The photographs you select will depict the tale of your relationship from its inception to its conclusion. Include images of significant milestones and major successes that you and your team were able to achieve as a group. Keep the collage displayed in your room so that you may remember your closest buddy at all times. To make it even more memorable, include quotations and dates in the text. This is another another memento that may be used throughout your riding career to demonstrate your progress and skill to ride.
There’s something about owning a horse and caring for a living breathing animal that allows you to experience something new and different in your life.
Horse Talk – When Your Horse Dies
Our horses represent far more than just “horses” to the majority of us. They’re companions, buddies, and even pets to me. It seems that every time we saddle up our favorite ride for a day of pleasure, we get more attached to the animal. Few of us are capable of caring for a horse for weeks or months at a time without becoming emotionally connected to it. However, even those who deal with horses on a daily basis and are among the first to advise that “horses aren’t pets and should not be handled or viewed as such” will admit to having had a favorite horse that they were resentful of having to leave with at some point in their careers.
- While the horse is being combed and groomed, we tend to forget about his demise.
- And when we do think about death, we mentally dismiss it as swiftly as possible, as if ignoring the concept will ensure that we will never be confronted with it.
- In the same way that humans prepare for death, the better prepared one is, the less difficult the trauma of dying will be.
- It makes no difference whether a person dies naturally or in a compassionate manner.
- Idealistically, one would like to be able to bury his or her departed horse companion in a corner of his or her preferred pasture.
- Alternatively, you might go by that favorite path that you both used to cycle on a regular basis.
- However, achieving the balance between what we want and what the law permits may be difficult, if not impossible, and can be emotionally draining.
Because of this, it is probable that a burial in pasture will be difficult unless permission from the landowner is secured.
A backhoe and an operator are required to excavate the grave for pasture burial.
It can sometimes be difficult to get the horse to the burial, especially if the horse is ill, too sick to move, or has already died.
Local health officials may object to pasture burials, so it is best to check with them beforehand before digging a grave.
It is their major fear that ground water pollution will occur, as well as if the corpse will be buried deeply enough to avoid the spread of air-borne illnesses, disagreeable odors, and flies from the carcass.
The country is often chosen by people because of its ambiance, but when such atmosphere includes insects and unpleasant scents, they may have a total change of heart!
It is possible to find them in the yellow pages of the phone book.) Alternatively, contact a tallow plant – there is one in San Jose, CA (see BAEN’s company listings for further information).
Some organizations will only accept live animals.
Landfills, landfills, and rubbish sites will not accept deceased animals weighing more than a particular amount – generally only dogs and cats of a specific size.
Landfills, dumps, and trash dumps are all terms used to describe waste disposal facilities “It was not intended to be used for burying deceased animals.
For some property owners, the thought of burial entails planning a funeral.
Then it’s time to plan the funeral, which will include a coffin, graveside ceremonies, and a burial in the earth.
If the animal is cremated, the cost of a niche for an urn can range from $200 to several thousand dollars.
Both the Memorial Gardens and the Columbarium contain horse remains, as well as Charlie-O, the Oakland A’s renowned mascot mule from the 1970s who is on display.
(Editor’s note: When we contacted US Davis at the time of publication of this story, we were informed that they do not do cremations.) Contact information for establishments who perform horse cremation may be found in the notes section below.
Animal remains will not be accepted in human graves unless they are placed in the owner’s casket at the time of death.
The Warm Springs Pet Memorial Cemetery in Fremont, which opened its doors in December 1972 and is known as the Garden of Noah, features horse graves in what is known as the Garden of Noah, as well as three human ashes in urns interred in pet burial plots.
This cemetery is now completely filled, and a phone call to the Information Center did not yield a phone number for them.) Bonnie offers them as an example of how certain pet cemetery could manage horse remains in this article.
One of the most painful decisions a horse owner has to make is whether to put down an elderly or ailing horse who has reached the end of its natural life.
The horse’s natural death indicates that nature has taken its course.
The human owner, on the other hand, must make the decision between life and death in the horse’s best interests alone, not for the sake of the owner’s sentiments or for the sake of the horse’s comfort.
A horse, in his own thinking, is completely unaware of the future.
He is solely aware of the current tense – the now.
The pain and agony.
Laying down and getting back up are seemingly hard feats.
But all of those memories, sensations, emotions, and affection must be pushed to the back of the mind, and the horse must be examined logically.
First and foremost, his well-being must be considered.
However, if one prepares for that day, it will be far less stressful.
It will, however, be less stressful.
Particularly when one considers that the ultimate choice was based on the HORSE’S well-being and is being made with the horse’s future in mind.
With the exception of the HORSE.
Cremation and burial resources are available.
The phone number is 650-755-2201 and the address is 1905 Hillside Blvd.
At the time of publishing of this story, the cost of cremation for a horse was reported at $1000, not including pick-up and transportation.
Lawn burials, urns, markers, and monuments are some of the other amenities available.
A printed version of the brochure is also available.
The cost of this service is around $800.
In order to publish this story, we waited to hear back from them in order to get more information on pick-up, cost, and other burial services available.
Your horse’s cremated remains, on the other hand, can be interred in a columbarium.
Bubbling Wells may be reached at 707-255-3456.
For prices and other information, please call.
If you are aware of any other removal companies or cremation/burial services in Northern California, please send us the information so that we can include them in our directory.
Explain the situation to them and they will often haul the carcass off.
If a horse dies on National Forest lands, one has to contact the local ranger office.
It is possible that the cadaver will be hauled back into the forest if it is close to a campground, picnic area, or trailhead.
Providing the animal dies in a wilderness region, a local ranger office may be sympathetic and allow the carcass to be left where it is if the carcass does not obstruct trail traffic.
Because chain saws and mechanized equipment are not permitted in wilderness areas, such a procedure might take a day or two, and the thought of having to chop up one’s cherished saddle horse into portions of flesh small enough to carry out can be too much for a horse owner to bear.
In cases where other trail users “may be offended by the sight of a dead animal, bears may be attracted to the site, or quick removal is required” on National Forest lands, the local ranger office must be notified.
It is the blaster’s responsibility to blow the horse apart!
The fuse is set and the horse explodes.
However, there is one important caveat to this procedure. Make sure that the horse’s iron shoes are removed before you light the fuse for safety reasons. If this is not done, someone may be struck by flying shrapnel. (See below for reader input.)
How to deal with losing your horse
It’s something no one likes to think about, yet every horse owner will suffer the heartbreak of losing their beloved animal at some time in their lives. “It’s merely a horse,” says H R, to assist you make sense of things moving forward. Whether we’re riders or business owners, we’ve all been on the receiving end of this attitude. This is something we’ve heard when we’ve had to cancel a social engagement because we needed to change a poultice, or when we’ve talked about our horses’ accomplishments as if they were members of the family.
- They are not simply a horse that we must learn to live without when they die, whether because they have reached the natural end of their long and active lives or because of an accident or injury that shortens their time with us.
- It’s a relationship that has developed over time and with a lot of patience, a steady source of comfort that we have come to rely on, and, in many cases, the shattered dreams of the future.
- Even at the earliest phases of mourning, the burden of loss can feel insurmountably heavy to bear.
- If you are a horse owner, you should know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.
The grieving process
Despite the fact that sorrow does not follow a linear pattern and that everyone reacts differently to loss, it can be beneficial to get familiar with the five phases of the grieving process as they occur. Some or all of these feelings may be experienced by you, and they are not always in this order. However, understanding that there is a fundamental cause for the multitude of emotions and that they are normal will assist you in finding your way through the grief process. When faced with sadness, denial is sometimes the first reaction.
Denial is an emotional defense technique that your brain employs to block off the early agony of grieving, enabling you to handle it more easily and effectively afterwards.
It is possible that you will lash out at friends or family members once the denial phase has ended and the agony of sorrow has begun to emerge.
This is frequently a circular process – anger will be followed by guilt, which will then be followed by more fury.
“If only I’d seen the problem sooner” or “what if I had done something differently” are examples of how it manifests itself as “what if” and “if only” ideas – “if only I’d noticed the problem sooner” or “if only the circumstances had been different.” Alternatively, if you’ve reached this stage of the grief process prior to your horse’s death, you may find yourself attempting to make mental bargains with yourself, such as “if my horse gets healthier, I won’t be as irritated with him when he misbehaves.” Depression is the emotion that is most frequently connected with the mourning process.
It can manifest itself in a variety of ways: you may be concerned and regretful about the practicalities and costs associated with the loss of your horse; if you own more than one horse, you may be concerned that you’ve neglected the others while dealing with your loss; or you may feel as though your life is empty or devoid of meaning without your horse in your life.
Acceptance is not a magical remedy that will instantly make you feel better about what has occurred; rather, it is the awareness that life without your horse is now the reality you must live with and accept.
It is the positive measures you take throughout this period that will assist you in getting back on solid ground and allowing you to be happy again.
The weight of responsibility
When you lose your horse, you may experience a range of complex emotions that are specific to animal mourning. If you’ve made the difficult decision to put him to sleep, it’s possible that your mourning process may begin the minute the phone call is placed. You can be feeling guilty or furious with yourself, or you might be concerned that you’ve made the incorrect decision. There is nothing abnormal about these thoughts, and talking with your veterinarian may frequently help to alleviate the notion that you could have done anything better.
Helping healing
Taking a proactive attitude to healing, despite the fact that it may appear to be the most difficult thing to accomplish, may be really beneficial. It’s tempting to ask a friend to clean out his stable and box up his possessions so that you don’t have to deal with the issue, but doing it yourself may frequently help you come to terms with the situation more quickly. You may also be shocked by the amount of support and compassion you receive from the other liveries, which may serve as an emotional support system for you that you were previously unaware of.
Coping mechanisms
In order to learn how to comprehend and regulate your emotions, it is essential that you express them verbally during the healing process. There are various approaches you may take to do this, and any one of them, or a mix of them, can be equally beneficial.
- Talk to a friend or family member who understands your situation. Keep a journal to record your thoughts and feelings. Talking to someone you trust and who you feel comfortable expressing your emotions in front of can help you release some of the tumultuous feelings that may build up, particularly in the period immediately following your horse’s death
- Keep a journal. Writing down your sentiments helps you to express yourself without feeling self-conscious, and it may also assist you in keeping track of how you’re managing with your situation. It’s possible that as time passes, your journal entries become more focused on reliving joyful memories than than on the emotional turmoil
- Consult with a professional. Bereavement counselors are specially educated to recognize and comprehend the range of complicated emotions that accompany the mourning process, and they can assist you in processing and accepting them. Many of them specialize in pet bereavement, so don’t feel that you’re ineligible to speak with someone about your loss. Counselors are especially beneficial if you are feeling overwhelmed and unable to manage on your own.
Stronger together
Being aware that you’re not alone and that you aren’t acting irrationally might relieve some of the pressure to be okay right immediately. It might be really comforting to talk to someone who has experienced the same thing that you are going through.
Moving forward
Making the decision to ride again might bring with it a complex range of feelings of its own. It’s possible that you’ll feel guilty about allowing another horse into your life, or that you’ll find yourself making unfavorable parallels between a new horse and the one you’ve lost. The most important thing is to give yourself plenty of time. If you were a regular competitor with your horse, it’s easy to put too much pressure on yourself to get back out on the circuit and finish the rest of the season.
There is no specific time frame for when you will be ready to return to riding; instead, pay attention to your gut sensations and let them guide you.
Keep in mind that you shouldn’t do something just because you feel like you should.
Spending even a single hour per week assisting at a rescue center or RDA group will allow you to spend time with horses without feeling betrayed by your horse’s memory, and knowing that you’re making a difference in the lives of other horses or people will allow you to cultivate positive feelings about the time you spend there.
Also inevitable is the formation of a tiny volunteer community, which will provide friendly support and a nice distraction, as well as the ability to help you feel better when going through difficult moments.
Giving yourself a break
A broad range of emotions may accompany the decision to begin riding again. Perhaps you’re feeling guilty about allowing another horse into your life, or perhaps you’re finding yourself making unfavorable parallels between a new horse and the one you’ve recently lost. Giving oneself plenty of time is essential. If you were a frequent competitor with your horse, it’s tempting to put too much pressure on yourself to go back out on the circuit and finish the season on a high note. Pushing yourself to accomplish too much, too soon, however, may impede your mourning process unless you are a professional rider who relies on competition to earn a living and you are not.
Make the decision to bike again or compete when you have a real desire to do so.
Even if you don’t want to take a vacation from horses, if you are experiencing feelings of guilt or other unpleasant emotions, volunteering can be an useful method to deal with these feelings.
A little volunteer community will eventually form around you, which will provide friendly support and a nice distraction while also helping you to cope with the difficulties of life.
Seeking closure
It is important to remember that grief is not a temporary emotion, and that you will not reach a moment where you forget or no longer mourn your horse. As an alternative, the healing process allows you to finally accept the positives — the lovely memories and joys he provided – and go ahead without being burdened by the anguish of grief. When you’ve reached this point, finding a method to memorialize your beloved horse may be quite therapeutic. This may be a private tribute, such as commissioning a picture or having a piece of jewelry produced, or it could be something that other people can participate in, such as sponsoring a perpetual trophy in his honor at a favorite event.
Calling for back-up
Many services are available to provide assistance and an understanding ear while you come to grips with the death of your horse.
- A non-profit online resource, The Ralph Site, is available to assist you in coping with the loss of a beloved horse or pet. It’s a comprehensive database that includes private forums, access to skilled grieving counselors, and memorial sites for loved ones. Visit theralphsite.com for more information. It’s always possible to reach out to someone who will provide a sympathetic ear and assist you through your grief, thanks to the Blue Cross bereavement helpline. Visit www.bluecross.org.uk for more information. As part of its Friends at the End program, the British Horse Society provides volunteers who may provide support throughout the process, including being present when your horse is put to death. You can even request a Friend to be present for support when your horse is put to sleep. Visit bhs.org.uk for more information.
Case studies
Sophie and Leyla are best friends. When I originally acquired my horse, she was untrained and in desperate need of some tender loving care. After three years of rigorous training and affection, she blossomed into the horse of my dreams, until she was injured in a field accident and had to retire. Despite months of box rest, Leyla’s lameness persisted, and she was taken to a nearby horse hospital for keyhole surgery to diagnose the cause. Because her operation fell on the same day as an A-level examination, I didn’t get to visit her before she went into surgery.
We made the decision not to wake her, and she was placed on the table to sleep.
The moments Leyla and I had shared were documented in a scrapbook that I created after hours of searching through photographs.
Barbara and Oliver are a married couple.
We first met when he was three days old, and then he came to me for weaning when he was six months old.
He lived with me until he was 24 years old, three years after being diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, which came with excruciating osteoarthritis and laminitis.
The vet gave him enough bute to allow him to spend the weekend basking in the sunshine in his field, and then we said our final goodbyes on the following Monday.
to care for him that I was surprised to discover that I still needed to get up and out of the home every morning.
As part of my recovery, I returned to the yard and spent time with the horses who used to dwell in his former field, which made me feel more connected to him once more.
I don’t believe I’ll ever want to own a horse again, but I’d want to help horses in need by volunteering at a horse rescue facility.
Kate and Colonel are a couple who have been together for a long time.
He was on the verge of becoming wild, and he was suffering from delicious itch to the point where his body was covered with open sores.
After a few weeks, I was able to apprehend him and begin administering treatment.
From that point on, we formed a particular link and gained a thorough grasp of one another’s personalities.
I briefly contemplated the possibility of admitting him to the hospital, which would have necessitated surgery, but my gut told me that, given his advanced age, it was time for him to pass away.
When I finally had a chance to talk to him alone, I put my arms around him and had a few peaceful moments with him.
The hush that followed his death was heartbreaking.
This genuinely extraordinary pony was cherished by his many friends, and sharing in the beautiful memories of this absolutely remarkable pony made it easier to bear with Colonel’s loss. It also helped that I had two Connemaras at home who need my continued care and attention.