can most often fi nd euthanasia-day support by
reaching out to other sympathetic horse own-
ers, trainers and even operators of local rescues.
“Sometimes people just need someone to hold
their hand, to hear ‘it’s OK,’ and have their feelings
validated,” says Clemm Ochoa. “You can reach out
to local rescue operators and others in the equine
community. They will be happy to help.”
In addition, need for moral support does not
end after the euthanasia has taken place.
“It was a very diffi cult decision, and after-
ward I had a very diffi cult time,” says Barry. “I
had no one to turn to because no one knew
what to say to me. Support for an owner who
has just lost a horse is so important.”
As diffi cult as it is, the decision to euthanize
doesn’t mean that the relationship with your
horse is wasted or forgotten.
“Shanghi was my soulmate,” says Barry.
“After 30 years away from horses, he was
exactly what I needed because he gave me the
confi dence and knowledge to have another
horse [after he was gone]. I’ll never, ever forget
him. He was a blessing.” HI
PATrICED.BUCCIArELLIis a freelancewriterbased
inFlorida. Makarova
viktoria/shutterstockTheRightHorse.org
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