The acute and subacute forms of equine grass sickness (EGS) are invariably fatal. In comparison, approximately 45–55% of cases with the chronic form of EGS recover with intensive nursing care. Prior to, and throughout the period of nursing, the clinician can be faced with difficult decision making dilemmas, including the identification of suitable candidates for treatment, the selection of an applicable treatment plan and the establishment of appropriate criteria to inform the decision for continued treatment or euthanasia. This article will cover the various aspects of nursing care and will also address some of the difficult clinical decisions, the outcomes of which have a major impact both on the case and the owner.

R Scott Pirie - European and RCVS Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine, Professor of Equine Clinical Sciences, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG

Bruce C McGorum - European and RCVS Specialist in Equine Internal Medicine, Professor in Equine Medicine; Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, Easter Bush Veterinary Centre, Easter Bush, Roslin, Midlothian EH25 9RG