End Of Life Care

Compassionate, on-site equine euthanasia and support in River Falls, WI. Dr. Toby Sheely provides dignified, thoughtful care for aging or ailing horses.

Equine End-of-Life Care – Rocky Branch Veterinary Services | River Falls, WI

Dignity, Compassion, and Support at Life’s End

Few decisions in horse ownership carry the emotional weight of saying goodbye. Whether following years of companionship or the result of sudden illness or injury, providing a peaceful and humane end is one of the last—and most loving—acts we can offer a horse.

Rocky Branch Veterinary Services is here to help you navigate this moment with care, respect, and clear guidance. Serving River Falls, Wisconsin, and the surrounding areas of Pierce, St. Croix, and western Dunn Counties (WI) and Washington and Dakota Counties (MN), we provide on-site end-of-life support that prioritizes comfort for both horse and owner.

When It’s Time to Consider End-of-Life Care

End-of-life decisions are never easy, but they often become clearer when quality of life begins to slip. Many owners reach out when they notice:

Chronic pain or unmanageable lameness

Difficulty standing, lying down, or rising

Loss of appetite or dramatic weight loss

Persistent illness, colic episodes, or unresponsiveness to treatment

Increasing signs of anxiety, distress, or confusion

These signs can indicate that the horse is no longer experiencing a good quality of life. Dr. Sheely is available for compassionate consultations to help you understand your horse’s condition and what choices lie ahead.

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Services We Offer

End-of-life care requires thoughtful attention—not just to the horse, but to the people who love them. Rocky Branch Veterinary Services offers a full spectrum of support, from initial evaluations to the final goodbye.

Quality-of-Life Consultations

When you’re unsure whether the time is right, we can visit your barn or pasture to conduct a full evaluation of your horse’s condition. These consultations focus on:

Pain levels and movement

Eating and digestion

Awareness and interaction

Medical history and treatment response

You’ll receive an honest, compassionate assessment with time to talk through your concerns. These visits are available throughout our mobile service region in WI and MN.

On-Site Humane Euthanasia

When euthanasia is the kindest option, Dr. Sheely performs the procedure with calm, experienced care. Horses are fully sedated in a quiet, comfortable location before the final injection, ensuring a peaceful, pain-free process.

There’s no rush. You’ll be given time to be present, say goodbye, and grieve in a respectful, supported space. Whether you choose a favorite pasture or stall, the focus remains on providing your horse with dignity and your family with peace.

Sedation and Handling Support

For horses that are anxious or uncomfortable, gentle sedation is provided before any procedures begin. This ensures your horse remains calm and relaxed throughout the process. We adapt each visit to your horse’s needs and behavior, using low-stress handling and allowing the time needed for a peaceful transition.

Aftercare Coordination

Aftercare decisions can feel overwhelming. While Rocky Branch Veterinary Services does not provide body removal or burial services directly, we will help:

Coordinate with local cremation or rendering providers

Provide necessary documentation for your records

Discuss burial options in accordance with local regulations

We can refer you to trusted providers in River Falls and surrounding counties who offer respectful, discreet services.

Dr. Sheely’s Approach

With over 20 years in equine medicine—including emergency, long-term care, and geriatric support—Dr. Toby Sheely approaches every end-of-life visit with quiet professionalism and personal compassion.

He understands that this is more than a clinical moment; it’s a goodbye filled with emotion. Every interaction is guided by patience and sincerity, and every horse is treated with the respect they’ve earned over a lifetime of partnership.

Compassionate End-of-Life Care for Your Equine Partner

You don’t have to make this decision alone. Whether you’re facing a sudden situation or planning ahead for an aging horse, Rocky Branch Veterinary Services is here to help you take the next steps with support and understanding.

Call us at (715) 629-0129 or request a consultation online.

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We're here to help! Contact us for more information about our services or to address any concerns you may have.

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(715) 629-0129

Frequently Asked Questions About End-of-Life Care for Horses

FAQs

How do I know it’s time to consider euthanasia?

If your horse is no longer able to enjoy life, is in chronic pain, or struggles with daily tasks like standing or eating, it may be time to evaluate their comfort. A consultation can help clarify this.

What happens during the euthanasia process?

Your horse will receive a full sedative, ensuring they are relaxed and unaware. Once fully at ease, the final injection is given. The process is peaceful and typically lasts only a few minutes.

Can I be present during the procedure?

Yes. You are welcome to be with your horse throughout. Dr. Sheely will guide you through what to expect, and support you at every step.

Do you help with burial or removal?

While we don’t provide these services directly, we can connect you with local providers who offer respectful aftercare.

Can I request a quality-of-life consultation without committing to euthanasia?

Absolutely. These visits are meant to help you gather information and explore all options. There’s no pressure or expectation beyond understanding your horse’s condition.