Reflecting on Retirement and End-of-Life Care
This week, the equestrian world farewelled two of its greatest legends — Valegro and Uthopia. Both horses, champions under the care of Carl Hester, passed away together after facing health complications in their later years.
“As life as old boys advanced, so too did the health challenges,” Carl wrote. “Allowing them to leave this world together was the final act of loyalty and dignity I felt I could give them.”
Their passing has moved horse lovers around the world and prompted reflection on how we care for our horses as they age. At Pony Club, we often say “a week too soon is better than a day too late” — a reminder that kindness sometimes means knowing when it’s time to let go.
This week’s Welfare Wednesday looks at retirement and euthanasia, helping you understand what to consider when making these difficult but deeply important decisions.
When Should a Riding Horse Be Retired?
Horses age differently, and many continue to enjoy light riding well into their twenties or even thirties. The decision to retire depends on the individual horse’s health, comfort, and workload.
Older horses — particularly those over 20 — require special attention to nutrition, dentistry, and shelter. For horses still in light work, regular monitoring is essential. Consider the following:
- Topline changes: Older horses lose muscle tone, so saddles should be checked regularly for fit.
- Metabolic health: Conditions such as Cushing’s disease and laminitis are more common with age.
- Teeth and digestion: Worn teeth and digestive changes can increase the risk of colic and may require a softer diet.
- Weight management: Adjust feed as teeth deteriorate and metabolism slows.
- Arthritis: Age-related joint wear may require anti-inflammatory support or supplements.
- Hoof care: Corrective trimming can help maintain even weight bearing and reduce discomfort.
- Warm-up and recovery: Older horses need longer warm-ups and take longer to heal after injury.
- Heart and vision: Annual veterinary checks should include heart and eye assessments, as murmurs and cataracts can develop with age.
Listening to your horse — and to your vet — helps ensure retirement comes at the right time for their wellbeing.
Making Humane Decisions About Euthanasia
At some point, every horse owner may face the heartbreaking decision of euthanasia. It should always be approached with compassion and with the horse’s best interests at heart.
Common reasons include:
- Severe injury or fracture with poor prognosis
- Progressive, incurable disease or age-related decline
- Dangerous contagious illness (e.g. Hendra virus)
- Inoperable conditions such as chronic lameness or colic
- Dangerous behavioural traits
- Financial or practical limitations that prevent humane ongoing care
The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) provides these guiding principles for making humane choices:
- A horse should not have to live with continuous or unmanageable pain.
- A horse should not be kept alive with no realistic hope of recovery.
- A horse should not remain alive if it poses a danger to itself or others due to its condition.
- A horse should not rely indefinitely on strong painkillers just to maintain comfort.
- A horse should not live permanently confined to a stable to prevent suffering.
While veterinarians can guide and support the process, the decision ultimately rests with the owner. In difficult moments, seeking a second veterinary opinion can provide reassurance that you are acting with kindness and integrity.
If euthanasia is the best option, plan ahead for the practical and emotional aspects:
- When and where it will take place
- Whether you wish to be present, or have a trusted person there
- Insurance or legal considerations
- How you will communicate the decision to family, friends, and children
A Final Act of Love
Saying goodbye to a horse who has shared years of partnership, patience, and joy is one of the hardest moments any owner will face. But, as Carl Hester so beautifully expressed, helping a horse leave this world with peace and dignity can be the final, most selfless gift of all.
Through understanding and planning, we can ensure that our horses — whether champions like Valegro and Uthopia or cherished paddock companions — are honoured in both life and in their final moments.
Adapted from the Pony Club Australia A Certificate Manual and the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Guidelines.
