Services
The Pre-Purchase Examination
The standard Pre - Purchase Examination consists of five stages, though the exact sequence may vary.
A pre-purchase examination, also known as a "vetting," is a comprehensive assessment conducted to evaluate a horse's health, soundness, and suitability for its intended use. Whether you're purchasing your first horse or adding to your stable, this process provides peace of mind by uncovering potential health issues or concerns.
Preliminary Examination: A thorough external check at rest, including visual observation, palpation, and manipulation to detect injuries, disease or abnormalities. This includes examining the teeth, eyes (without pupil dilation), heart and lungs, but excludes detailed mouth exams, pregnancy checks and heigh measurement.
Walk and Trot (In hand): The horse is walked and trotted on firm level ground to assess gait and movement. Flexion tests and trotting in a circle are performed.
Exercise Phase: The horse is ridden (or lunged if necessary) to evaluate movement under exertion, monitor hear and breathing rates, and assess suitability for work.
Rest and Re -examination: The horse stands quietly while its cardiovascular and respiratory recovery is monitored.
Second Trot - Up: The horse is trotted again to check for any emerging signs of strain or injury post - exercise.
Additional Procedures
Blood Sample: A sample may be taken and stored for up to six months to detect substances that could mask health and any behaviour issues.
Identification: The horse's markings, microchip, and passport details are recorded for verification.
Variations: The vet may adjust the exam based on clinical or Practical reasons. Radiography, Endescopy and Scanning will be completed on request.
This structured examination ensures a comprehensive assesement of the horse's health and suitability for it's intended use.
Limitations of the Examination:
Ownership: Details of legal ownership and the horses history will be requested from the seller/agent.
Age Estimation: .Without official records, age estimation through dental examination is an estimate. Horses believed to be over 15 years old may be labelled as "aged".
Vices: Unwanted behaviours (vices) may not be evident during the exam. If observed, they will be reported to the buyer and noted on the certificate.
Sellers Warranty: The vet's opinion does not cover matters that rely on the seller's claims such as medical history, vices or prior drug use. Buyers shoule request a written warranty from the seller if verification is required.
Height Measurement: The vet does not verify the horse's height as part of the examination.
Insurance: Buyers should check if they can secure insurance before purchasing, with the veterinary certificate of examination.