How are horses put down?

No horse owner wants to face the awful decision of having to put their beloved equine companion to sleep. It remains a very emotional and difficult task regardless of the fact that euthanasia is generally chosen because its considered to be in the horses best interests. 
Table of contents
Why might a horse need to be put down?What are the options for euthanasia?Euthanasia by injectionEuthanasia by shootingWhat happens to my horses body afterwards?A note on insurance
Why might a horse need to be put down?

We imagine our horses passing away peacefully in their sleep but it doesnt happen very often. More frequently we are presented with ageing or ailing horses and ponies for whom we are constantly assessing their quality of life. Taking account of the subtle changes which indicate they are nearing the time to let them go.
Its important to bear in mind that whilst the idea of having to put your horse down is probably something youve planned to deal with far into the future unfortunately accidents and illness can happen. A severe injury or unmanageable colic might mean we are faced with this heartbreaking decision sooner than wed thought. So its good to have an idea of what euthanasia entails and the arrangements that will need to be made. 
What are the options for euthanasia?
There are two possible means of euthanasia in horses both equally humane and acceptable.
Euthanasia by injection
The first most commonly chosen option is euthanasia by injection. Normally the horse is first sedated before an injection of the solution. Euthanasia is given into the jugular vein in the neck causing him to gradually fall to the ground. The vet will then check for a heartbeat until the heart has stopped and the horse has died.
Its common for the horse to let out a few deep breaths and to twitch a little after the injection even when the heart has stopped. These are just normal bodily reactions. 
Euthanasia by shooting
The alternative option is euthanasia by free bullet or shooting. This is something that can be performed by a suitably licensed person which could include your veterinarian a knackerman huntsman or equine slaughterhouse. Its a very rapid process not requiring sedation unless the horse is particularly anxious or nervous.
The horse immediately drops to the ground meaning that owners must remain a safe distance away. There may be a small amount of blood and twitching or stiffening of the legs