Why and how does pre-purchase examinations work?
The pre-purchase examination could potentially be one of the most important services that you will ask your veterinarian for – as it provides a key guidance tool for both buyers and sellers of horses.
A basic vetting/pre purchase examination involve a thorough general examination, including the eyes, heart, and lungs, as well as observation of the horse walking and trotting in hand and on a circle if possible. Flexion tests may be performed if possible (on the base of age and accessibility). This type of vetting’s is usually reserved for youngsters that are not yet in work, older horses (not competing/actively exercising) and broodmares. It doesn’t include a strenuous exercise phase and as such, among other things, they may not reveal subtle lameness, some airway issues and certain heart conditions.
An extended vetting /pre purchase examination has the additional exercise phase where the horse is observed under saddle at walk, trot and canter. This also allows assessment of the horse when it has an increased breathing effort and an increased heart rate as well as how the horse performs during “intended use”. The trot up is then repeated to assess the effects of a period of exercise on the horse’s soundness. These types of vettings are recommended for all riding horses and especially competition horses.
An x-ray examination may form another vital part of the pre-purchase examination depending on the value of the animal, the proposed discipline or if the clinical examination highlights a potential problem. X-ray examinations can consist of distal legs only or also include images of the back & neck.
Blood sampling is recommended for all vettings. The bloods are stored for 6 months following the vetting and may be tested in the event of a problem arising after purchase.
The overall aim of a vetting is to not only assess the condition of the horse, but also its suitability for the intended purpose. A thorough discussion with the purchaser as to their intentions for the horse and any concerns they may have been a vital part of the pre-purchase examination process. The aim is to ensure that your new horse is suitable and your purchase results in a successful future together.
EquineAlly can travel all over Europe to carry out pre-purchase vettings as well as make pre-assessments of x-rays of horses in questioning, so if you need someone you can trust to advise you, look no further.
All contact details can be found on the contact page.