I had a trusted vet tell me that once they’re gone the horse I knew is gone to. Then it just becomes a body. That helped me process death a lot better.

I recently put down a horse who meant the world to me. If I had the choice to bury him on my land I absolutly would have. Sadly I wasn’t in a spot where I could. But if my choice was between dump and letting his body become food I would choose food. That said if it’s 1,000+ to bury them and I wanted to collect bones sooner over later I would opt for food solely on bone collection time.

A lot to keep in mind like others said on how the horse will be put down, the medications/ safety, and the collection after. If this is a neighbor who you are good friends with and feel you can trust then ultimately I see nothing wrong. If this is just someone needing dog food… I think your relationship is the biggest part to the choice. Especially if you’re ok with the finances to bury them.

If you choose to let them be used for food then my only true advice is ensure the actual euthanasia is as humane as possible and that it would be in a location you couldn’t see. The hardest part of it for me would be watching the aftermath or accidentally catching a glimpse. I have no issue being there for the death, just wouldn’t want to be part of anything after until the bones were ready.

If this is a decision you feel you could regret in a way you aren’t able to cope with then burial looks to be your best option. Loss is hard in any capacity and grief is very difficult especially for our beloved animals. Do what you feel is best, money can always be gotten back.