I am so sorry you have to experience the hardest part of being a good steward.. letting go for a crummy reason. I had to put down a 23 yr old mare last fall due to a very aggressive cancer. Very healthy and spunky except for the tumor. I just spent as much time as possible just being with Lizzy and brushing her and making the last days count for good memories, she was comfortable as she could manage and the actual process was very quiet. My vet gave her a sedative and when that had taken hold he gave her her final shot. It was as peaceful as something like this can be. They are a very large animal so you guide them down and let them go. No more pain. It's a crummy deal but one we agree to take on. I have Lizzy's picture above my desk. Lizzy was with me less than a year and I can't help but think it was destined that I helped her with a dignified ending for a grand old mare.

Laurie, Andalusians NW
http://www.al-andalus.com http://whoabigfella.blogspot.com & http://schipperkedogs.blogspot.com
Treasure the knowledge of older horses
Green + Green = black & blue
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Capriccioso NW