Pre Purchase Examination
The purpose of a pre-purchase examination is to provide a prospective buyer with the best information available about the horse they intend to buy. A pre-purchase examination involves an in-depth examination of multiple body systems of the horse, and will also often involve diagnostic imaging and other blood tests.
During the pre-purchase examination, the horse will be assessed for:
Finally, in some instances depending on the buyers wishes, a series of radiographs (x-rays) will be taken of the horse to gain further information about the horse's overall musculoskeletal health. Additional tests may be recommended depending on individual circumstances, including:
Our veterinarians are very experienced in pre-purchase examinations and look forward to helping you with the purchase of your next equine partner.
During the pre-purchase examination, the horse will be assessed for:
- Cardiovascular fitness - detection of heart murmurs or arrhythmia's that may limit performance
- Respiratory health - signs and symptoms of lower or upper airway dysfunction
- Ophthalmologic health - evaluation of the eyes for signs of disease or visual dysfunction
- Oral health - dental abnormalities that may impact performance or general health
- Dermatologic condition - skin diseases, cutaneous tumors
- Neurological fitness - signs of wobbler's disease, EPM, or other nerve damage
- Musculoskeletal system - obvious or hidden injuries that may limit the horse's performance for its intended purpose
Finally, in some instances depending on the buyers wishes, a series of radiographs (x-rays) will be taken of the horse to gain further information about the horse's overall musculoskeletal health. Additional tests may be recommended depending on individual circumstances, including:
- Pr-epurchase drug screen - to ensure that the horse is not under the influence of pain-relieving or tranquilizing substances at the time of the examination
- Blood work - CBC/Chemistry, Coggins Test
- Ultrasound - to assess any soft tissue structures that may be under question following the clinical examination
- Upper airway endoscopy - to check the health of the horse's upper airway
Our veterinarians are very experienced in pre-purchase examinations and look forward to helping you with the purchase of your next equine partner.