What is the legal status of euthanizing horses?

In New York, horses may be euthanized (put to sleep) under certain circumstances. Generally, euthanasia is by lethal injection and is performed by a licensed veterinarian. New York State law requires that a horse must be examined by a veterinarian before being euthanized. The vet must determine that the horse’s medical condition is incurable, or that it is suffering from severe physical or mental pain. They must also certify that it is humane to euthanize the animal. The veterinarian must document the cause of death and submit that information to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets. The state law prohibits veterinarians from euthanizing a horse for the sole purpose of avoiding the cost of proper care. This means it is illegal to euthanize a horse just because it costs too much to care for it. Euthanasia may also be used to prevent the spread of infectious diseases in horses. In such cases, the vet must certify that euthanizing the horse is necessary to protect the health of other animals, and the owner must surrender the horse to the state. In addition to legal requirements, horse owners should consider the ethical implications of euthanizing a horse. Putting an animal to sleep can be a difficult decision, and all alternatives should be thoroughly explored before a decision is made.

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