Deceased Horse & Equine Removal — Northern Illinois & Southern Wisconsin
When you lose a horse, you deserve an equine removal service that treats your animal with the dignity they earned. Brier Hill Livestock Removal provides prompt, compassionate, and professional equine services across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
24/7 Availability
Emergency and scheduled pickups available around the clock, including weekends and holidays. When you need us, we answer.
Licensed & Insured
IDOA-licensed hauler in Illinois, operating in compliance with Wisconsin DATCP regulations. Full commercial liability insurance.
All Breeds & Sizes
From miniature horses and ponies to draft breeds exceeding 2,000 lbs — we have the equipment and experience for every situation.
Horse Removal Done Right
Horses are not just livestock — they are companions, athletes, and family members. Losing one is a profound experience, and the logistics of removal shouldn't compound your grief. That's why we've built our service around the specific needs of horse owners.
We handle all horse breeds from miniature horses and Shetland ponies to large draft breeds including Clydesdales, Belgians, Percherons, and Shire horses. Our equipment is rated for animals of all sizes, and our team knows how to work efficiently while maintaining the respectful handling your horse deserves.
We serve horse owners across Northern Illinois and Southern Wisconsin — from private hobby farms and boarding facilities to large equestrian operations and individual backyard horse owners. No situation is too complex for our team.
Breeds We Handle
- Quarter Horses
- Thoroughbreds
- Arabians
- Paint Horses
- Appaloosas
- Tennessee Walkers
- Draft Horses (all breeds)
- Warmbloods
- Standardbreds
- Mustangs
- Miniature Horses
- Shetland Ponies
- Welsh Ponies
- Donkeys & Mules
- Friesians
- Morgans
What Happens When You Call
- 1You Call Us
Call (815) 543-1891 any time. We'll ask about your horse's size, breed, location, and whether euthanasia drugs were involved.
- 2We Quote You
We give you an upfront price before dispatch — no hidden fees or surprise charges after the fact.
- 3We Arrive
Our team arrives with the appropriate equipment. We handle everything with care and efficiency.
- 4Respectful Removal
Your horse is loaded and transported using specialized equipment. We maintain dignity throughout the entire process.
- 5Proper Disposal
We arrange appropriate disposal — rendering, cremation transport, or other licensed methods — in compliance with IL and WI regulations.
Euthanasia Coordination
Planning a scheduled euthanasia? Call us in advance and we'll coordinate timing with your veterinarian so pickup happens smoothly after your final goodbye. We regularly work with veterinarians throughout our service area.
Call to CoordinateDisposal Options for Deceased Horses
We explain your options clearly so you can make the right choice for your horse and your situation.
Cremation Transport
Best for beloved horses
We transport your horse to a licensed cremation facility. Private cremation allows ash return; communal cremation is more affordable. Note: pentobarbital-euthanized horses must be cremated, not rendered.
Available for euthanized horsesRendering
Best for horses that died naturally
Rendering is an environmentally sound disposal method that converts carcasses into useful products. It is the most economical option — but cannot be used for horses euthanized with pentobarbital.
Not available for euthanized horsesOn-Site Burial
Best for rural properties with space
On-site burial keeps your horse on the property you shared. Must meet IL/WI setback requirements (150 ft from water in IL). Requires heavy equipment. We can advise on compliance.
Subject to property setback rulesFrequently Asked Questions About Horse Removal
How quickly can you remove a deceased horse?
We offer same-day service for all calls received before noon. For emergency situations — such as a horse that collapsed on a roadway or in a high-traffic area — we prioritize response and typically arrive within 1–2 hours from our Harvard, IL base. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
My horse was euthanized. Can you still remove it?
Absolutely. Euthanized horses are among the most common situations we handle. The key detail to share with us is whether pentobarbital was used, as this affects disposal options — specifically, euthanized animals cannot go to rendering facilities. We will arrange appropriate disposal through cremation transport or other approved methods. We coordinate closely with your veterinarian to make the timing as seamless as possible.
Can you transport my horse to a cremation facility?
Yes. We provide cremation transport for horses to licensed cremation facilities in our service area. We handle all logistics and transport your horse with dignity. You can choose between private cremation (you receive your horse's ashes) or communal cremation (less expensive, no ash return). The cremation facility handles their own billing for the cremation service.
Do you handle draft horses and very large breeds?
Yes. We have equipment specifically suited for large and draft horses including Clydesdales, Percherons, Belgians, and other heavy breeds that can exceed 2,000 pounds. Our vehicles and loading equipment are rated for these animals. Please mention the breed and approximate weight when you call so we can dispatch the right equipment.
Ready to Get Help?
We answer every call with compassion and professionalism. No situation is too complex. Serving Northern IL & Southern WI around the clock.