On the 1st of October I have made the heartbreaking decision to have my 12 yr old mare pts. I've had her since she was 18 months old and backed her myself. Unfortunately she has bone spavin and arthritic hocks. She also has a front hoof that has been too damaged by laminitis and abscesses. I have tried my best but I just can't keep her sound and comfortable anymore. She is currently on her bodyweight in danilon every day so she can be with my other mare and not sectioned off by herself.
My other mare is 20 but doesn't show it at all. They have been together for the last 10 years or so. So long as they are in the same place, stable or field, they are happy. They can both be stabled alone for short periods.
How long would you give my older mare after the deed is done before her body is taken away to say her goodbyes? I currently have 30 minutes between the vet and the lorry but I worry its not long enough. I have been in tears every day since I made the decision but I have to do what is right for my girl.
They are currently over the fence from another little mare who will become my old girls field companion. At what point would you put them together? They have been neighbours since Christmas. I think my old girl will run about shouting a lot when my other mare is gone, especially if she is turned out alone. I don't want to cause my lame horse more problems if there are any scuffles with introducing the newcomer but don't know whether waiting means the old girl will be more mean to the new one.
Tldr:
How long does a companion horse need to say goodbye after friend is pts?
When would you introduce new companion to remaining horse? They are already neighbours. Remaining horse won't settle alone.