We offer euthanasia for large animals, specifically horses and camelids. The process may vary depending on the situation and animal's temperament, but they are typically sedated with a mild tranquilizer followed by an overdose of an injectable anesthetic drug. In most pre-planned euthanasias, the animal is injected while in a standing position and will drop once the drug has taken effect. This can be traumatizing for some people to witness, so we do not require you to be present once the animal has been properly identified and sedated. Keep in mind that the drug we use is an anesthetic, so the animal is not conscious when they go down.
We understand losing any companion, especially horses, can be a profound loss. At your request we can braid and remove a portion of your horse's tail to be made into a keepsake. Donna Murray in Lethbridge makes some beautiful custom creations. You can find out more information on her website: https://www.customhorsehairand...
Because the drugs that are injected can be hazardous if ingested, the body must be buried, cremated, or rendered.
- Burial: Owners are responsible for ensuring proper burial of deceased or euthanized animals. For more information and burial specifications please see:
- Cremation: ATIM Creek Pet Crematory will pick up and cremate deceased large animals, including horses. Please contact them for current pricing.
- Rendering: West Coast Reduction LTD provides rendering services for deceased and euthanized large animals. Please phone our Mayerthorpe Clinic at 780-786-2000 for the most current pricing information. Please keep in mind they do NOT pick up on farm so the body must be brought to the Mayerthorpe Veterinary Clinic. With the exception of horses that are down and unable to stand, we recommend animals going for rendering be brought to the clinic for the euthanasia procedure.
