When searching for the horse of your dreams, we all have our unique checklists of wants and needs. During your search you may try and view multiple horses, but you will eventually find a special one that just seems to be perfect. It is tempting to get the check book out immediately and take them home in the trailer, but wait! Let’s talk about a prepurchase exam.
What is a prepurchase exam?
A prepurchase exam is a set of medical tests performed by a licensed veterinarian with the objective of helping the buyer make an informed decision about their horse purchase. It is important to keep in mind that the prepurchase exam is not a pass/fail test, but it can provide great insight into the general health and athletic soundness of the horse for sale. Although these tests cannot guarantee soundness or good health, the veterinarian tasked with the exam will attempt to ascertain preexisting conditions and potential concerns that may affect the horse in the future and their suitability for purchase.
What tests are included with a prepurchase exam?
Prepurchase exams come in many degrees of complexity, and with numerous diagnostic tools available veterinarians have more ways than ever to gain information about a horse’s health. These tests can get expensive, and it is important to work alongside your veterinarian to customize an exam that will not only provide you useful information regarding the new horse, but will remain within your budget.
Can any veterinarian perform a prepurchase exam?
In theory yes, however there are a couple things to keep in mind when selecting your veterinarian to perform a prepurchase exam. You will want to ensure that the examining veterinarian has experience with the breed of horse you are purchasing, the discipline you are wanting to pursue, and the level of activity and exercise the horse will be expected to perform in their new home. Additionally, it is preferred to select a veterinarian who has had no contact with the horse or seller in a previous medical or personal role. This precaution is to ensure an impartial view, but is not always possible in small and rural communities. If you are not using your routine veterinarian due to the horse being out of their catchment area, be sure to share the examining veterinarians report and any ancillary information, such as radiographs, laboratory tests, etc. prior to final purchase of the horse with them.
Are there any guarantees with a prepurchase exam?
There is no guarantee with a prepurchase exam that a horse will be your perfect match, but it can rule out particular horses that won’t be suitable, saving you from heartache and financial loss. In addition, it can expose health concerns that could present management issues now or later, giving you an opportunity to decide if you want to take on that problem.