Testing A New Resource to Help End-of-Life Care in Horses

SUMMARY: Researchers will test and refine a new resource to aid horse owners and veterinarians work through end-of-life decisions.

THE PROBLEM: Horses rely on their owners to make decisions about treatment and euthanasia at the right time to avoid suffering, but this can be difficult. A strong love for their horse, feelings of guilt, and not recognising that their horse is becoming more unwell can all lead to delays in a horse being put to sleep or euthanased. Delayed euthanasia when a horse is very ill, will not recover, and not euthanasing it sooner is causing unnecessary suffering. It is a common and serious welfare issue facing horses. Early planning can help to reduce stress during euthanasia decisions, and encourage the decision to be made at the best time for the horse. Vets are a key source of advice for owners during euthanasia decisions, but they can find this communication difficult and emotionally draining. They may also be unsure of when to first raise end-of-life discussions with clients.
 
THE PROJECT: This research project will test and refine the TRUSTED Guide, a resource developed by the principal investigator as part of their PhD. This resource aims to decrease stress during difficult decisions and conversations. It encourages earlier end-of-life care planning, and signposts to helpful information. It was created with input from horse owners and vet teams throughout its development. The fellowship will continue this work, by testing this guide with horse owners and vet teams. They will be asked about their opinions and experiences of using it, and any improvements or changes they think should be made (termed implementation research). The project will involve interviewing horse owners who have been given the guide to use with their horse, and talking to groups of horse owners and vet teams, about how the guide should be improved, used, and shared with everyone. 

POTENTIAL IMPACT: This research could help the many horse owners and veterinarians make timely decisions and improve horse welfare. 

Projected End Date: 2/28/27