Any horse that is being considered for purchase should undergo a thorough purchase examination. This is quite possibly the most thorough examination a horse may undergo. In addition to an assessment of the horse’s history, this procedure is an exceptionally methodical medical and performance examination. The purchase examination is a valuable service when deciding to purchase a new horse. Our veterinarians customize the exam to meet the needs of each buyer. The goal of this exam is not to pass or fail the horse, but to approach it as a discovery process so that the buyer can make an informed purchase. The standard purchase examination includes:
- Seller’s disclosure of medical and surgical history, current medications, current use and work schedule and any behavioral vices
- Buyer’s intended use and any concerns regarding the health or soundness
- Physical Exam: designed to address every body system including but not limited to respiratory, the eyes, cranial nerves, oral cavity, cardiovascular system , gastrointestinal system, skin and hooves, nutritional status, conformation, muscle symmetry, external genitalia and observation/palpation for surgical scars
- Inspection and Palpation: neck, withers, back, loins, croup, all four limbs, hooves
- Gait Evaluation: walking and trotting on a hard surface, while lunging, under saddle if possible, neurologic exam
- Flexion Tests: major joints on all four limbs are flexed to detect discomfort, gait is evaluated following flexion to determine if lameness is induced
Additional Diagnostic Tests
Your veterinarian can advise you based on their findings whether additional diagnostic testing is appropriate. Some Buyer’s elect for all diagnostics to allow for a more thorough discovery process (additional fees apply):
- Complete Blood Count, Fibrinogen and Chemistry to assess health and organ function
- Coggins test for Equine Infectious Anemia
- Drug Test
- Digital Radiographs – standard is 5 views of each front hoof and 4 views of each hock, additional films can be taken as desired
- Upper Airway Endoscopic Exam
- Fecal Egg Count
- Breeding Soundness Exam if applicable
- Lameness Locator®
Please note their will be a 50% cancelation fee charged if the exam is canceled within 24 hours of the appointment.
