Lameness is most common reason For euthanasia in older horses, according to horse owner survey

摘要

This research is the first in the UK to provide data on the causes of death in geriatric horses. Although postmortem examination studies have provided some data regarding causes of death, 'old age' was previously reported as a common reason for the euthanasia of adult horses.The research was carried out by Joanne Ireland at the University of Liverpool and led by Dr Gina Pinchbeck. Ms Ireland surveyed horse owners living in the North-West and Midlands areas of England and North Wales who have a horse aged 15 years or older. Nine hundred and eighteen owners of geriatric horses were followed in a cohort study and 118 mortalities were reported during the 18 month follow-up period, of which 111 were euthanased.