Advice needed

[frankieduck]

We are in for a beautiful couple of weeks weather, I would stuff him with treats, let him feel the sun on his back and set the date. We could be in for weeks of spring showers and you don't want to be forced to make the decision on a cold rainy day when he's struggling and you feel you left it too late, or be faced with weeks of lameness over an abscess or other health issue that crops up and know he hasn't enjoyed his last days. I have a 30 year old so feel your pain, I've always said I will call it a day when he loses his spark for life and seems to just be existing if that makes sense.

 

[Fred66]

Must be really hard when others are involved. I'm sorry they are putting you in this situation or even just making you feel like you are.

I wouldn't mention finance when discussing this with the 2 ladies looking after him. 'I'm booking the PTS for XXX date, lets enjoy the time we have left with XXX as friends and give him the best time. I think it's for the best that he goes with sun on his back and fresh grass in his belly before anything else crops up to put him in any more discomfort and the vet agrees'

Be prepared for your friendship to be different/strained afterwards unfortunately.

This

He is deteriorating and whilst you kept him going through the winter his immune system appears compromised and he is developing one medical problem after another.

It is kindest to him to end his suffering, if they try and change your mind then don’t tell them when. They are adding to his suffering and whilst this is from a good place it is cruel.

 

[Highmileagereindeer]

Big hug to you. You don't need us really. You will make the right decision whether it is now or the end of summer, this year or next year. I'm also retired, and Old Dobbin is currently being fed every 4 or 5 hours up to 6pm and then given his night rations. A quick look at my bank balance tells me he is costing between £150 and £200 a month to feed. This isn't how I thought I would be spending my retirement, but as long as he is happy and sparky, I am happy to go with it.

 

[Ruftys mum]

Big hug to you. You don't need us really. You will make the right decision whether it is now or the end of summer, this year or next year. I'm also retired, and Old Dobbin is currently being fed every 4 or 5 hours up to 6pm and then given his night rations. A quick look at my bank balance tells me he is costing between £150 and £200 a month to feed. This isn't how I thought I would be spending my retirement, but as long as he is happy and sparky, I am happy to go with it.

Thank you everyone. I have made my decision. He can have a bit longer in the sun but then he will be PTS. I will tell the ladies. I feel it is only fair. I knew iI could rely on you all for sensible advice

 

[Clodagh]

I would now do it differently, I knew my mares cushings was advanced and I PTS when she became pottery as I knew that it was a sign that laminitis was likely. I really wish I had done it before she had to suffer with pain. It made that final decision easier for me but when they are old it’s unlikely that they will be pain free anyway so earlier is better for them IMO

Summer is a horrible time for an old horse. Hard ground, flies, and with pain as well I’m not sure it’s a better time for the horse.