Help to Navigate Your Horse’s Final Transition

care of yourself during this process. Eat well drink water sleep when you are able see your friends connect with a therapist if needed. There are amazing therapists who work specifically with grief and loss.
Dont let anyone say its just a horse in an attempt to make you feel better. They are trying to make you stop being emotional so they will feel more comfortable. Your horse is your beloved family member whose passing is as challenging as the loss of any loved one human or otherwise.
Work with an animal communicator or other professional if you need support around timing fear logistics or other unknown aspects of this transition. We are not meant to do this alone and often your horse will have input as to what they want or need.
If you can let your herd be with the body of their herdmate. This will allow the herd to grieve naturally and process the loss in their own time.
Do what it takes to be there for your horse during their passing. You were the horses anchor in life as you are in this final transition. Do the emotional and mental work to be able to face this day together for the love of your horse.
Research afterlife options in your area well before any concrete plans are required. Talk with your veterinarian barn owner and others to understand the steps in this process and to make a plan that feels good for you and your horse and herd.
Allow death to be a ritual. Collect mane hair if it feels right adorn your horse for the final transition ask your good friends and friends of your horse to be a part of the passing so you dont have to do it alone sing a song write a poem have a painting commissioned or a photograph framed. Do whatever feels right to honour your horse and your partnership. Take the time you need with your horses body and with the things you shared. Naturally all of this may feel painful and hard but if you allow the wave of challenging emotion to move your love for your horse and from your horse will be there waiting.
Need more support? Read my book available on Amazon or listen to my Whole Horse Podcast episodes with Tara Davis Betsy Vonda and Dr. Tracy Rainwaters.