(July 31, 2009) WASHINGTON—The Humane Society of the United States released a
national list of humane resources for horse owners making end-of-life
arrangements for their equine companions.
“Providing a humane, dignified death for your horse is simply responsible
horse ownership,” said Keith Dane, The Humane Society of the United States’
director of equine protection. “No one likes to think about the death of a
beloved companion, but planning ahead is key to understanding your options. This
resource list gives horse owners the information they need to plan
effectively.”
The list includes state-by-state information on low-cost
euthanasia programs, equine crematories, horse cemeteries, rendering facilities
and landfills. State agriculture and veterinary contacts and state regulations
are also included.
A recent survey of equine veterinarians and carcass disposal service
providers indicated it costs about $300 for humane euthanasia and carcass
disposal. In most parts of the country, this cost is equal to or less than the
cost of one month’s care. With proper care, horses can live well into their 20s
and 30s. The latest available data shows there are more than 9 million horses in
the United States, making this resource a valuable tool for the millions of
Americans involved with horses.
The Humane Society of the United States is providing this list because, due
to variations in laws and the availability of services across the country, horse
owners often don’t know their options when it comes to disposing of their
horse’s remains. With hundreds of listings for service providers across the
country, this tool will ease the burden of seeking out disparate sources of
information. It is expected that the list will grow over time, as the public and
service providers become aware of this resource. Vendors who wish to have their
information added to the list should contact Marika O’Brien at [email protected].
This resource is part of The Humane Society of the United States’ Horses:
Companions for Life program. The program aims to educate the general public and
new, prospective and current horse owners about responsible horse ownership and
companionship. Published last year, “The Humane Society of the United States
Complete Guide to Horse Care” is the keystone of the program.
