The British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has published updated guidelines to support veterinary surgeons making euthanasia decisions involving horses insured under mortality policies. The revised guidance replaces BEVA’s previous recommendations from 2009 and reflects advances in veterinary science, clinical understanding, and industry practices over the past 15 years.
Developed with input from equine veterinary professionals and representatives from the insurance sector, the updated document aims to bring greater clarity and consistency to situations where euthanasia may be considered. While the guidance is primarily intended for veterinary surgeons, BEVA says it may also help horse owners, trainers, insurers and event organisers better understand the factors involved when difficult welfare decisions intersect with insurance policies.
Supporting Welfare-Focused Veterinary Decisions
The guidelines have been designed as a practical reference for vets working in equine practice across the UK. They emphasise that the welfare of the horse must remain the primary consideration, regardless of insurance status.
A key element of the update is a revised List of Conditions, which reflects developments in veterinary knowledge and clinical practice since the original guidance was produced. The document outlines examination procedures and protocols for situations including emergency euthanasia, suspected grounds for euthanasia, and cases where euthanasia may not be considered appropriate.
It also provides guidance for managing horses suffering from chronic disease or long-term pain where the likelihood of recovery is negligible. Although the list is not exhaustive, BEVA says it is intended to cover the most common scenarios encountered by equine veterinary surgeons in the UK.
Modernising Guidance First Introduced in 2009
Ian Beamish, who led BEVA’s guidelines working group, said the updated resource was designed to modernise existing recommendations while reinforcing the profession’s welfare responsibilities.
“The veterinary surgeon’s primary responsibility is undoubtedly to ensure the welfare of the horse, regardless of whether the horse is insured,” he said.
“The new guidelines are a modernised version of the outdated 2009 guidelines, with a carefully revised List of Conditions and their prognoses, updated language, and revised protocols on grounds for euthanasia.”
Beamish also emphasised that veterinary advice should remain distinct from insurance policy decisions.
“It is important to note that whilst we may advise euthanasia, we may not advise on the insurance policy conditions; this is a matter for the insured and insurer to discuss.”
Industry Adoption of the Updated Guidance
Although written specifically for veterinary professionals, the guidance has also been approved and adopted by members of the Equine Insurance Providers Group. Insurers may therefore reference the document when discussing euthanasia decisions under mortality policies.
BEVA hopes the updated guidelines will help ensure consistent welfare-focused decision-making while providing clearer understanding for the wider equestrian community in situations that can often be complex and emotionally challenging.
The full guidance is available on the BEVA website.
