Horse slaughter is a controversial topic in the UK. Understanding the welfare standards in equine abattoirs and the export trade helps inform discussion and advocacy.
Horse slaughter welfare hinges on the quality of pre-slaughter handling and stunning. Horses are highly sensitive animals that respond badly to unfamiliar environments and restraint - a well-designed abattoir with appropriate handling facilities and skilled operators provides much better welfare outcomes than poorly equipped facilities. Live export for slaughter creates additional welfare costs from long transport journeys. End-of-life planning for horses, including working with registered abattoirs and considering humane killing by a vet, provides owners with welfare-conscious options.