A prepurchase exam is a detailed physical examination of a horse on behalf of a purchaser. The exam will be custom tailored depending on the intended use of the horse and the wishes of the buyer. For example a broodmare might have an ultrasound and a potential racehorse will likely have upper airway endoscopy as well as X-rays. Our digital xray system takes the delay out of waiting for xray results in making a purchase decision, as the xrays may be viewed immediately on site. Also it is possible to make a CD copy of the xrays for the purchaser. The veterinarian experienced in prepurchase exams will have a consistent approach and provide a detailed report of their exam on that day. We take pride in our prepurchase exams, offering lab testing for painkillers and tranquilizers, followup with the puchasers regular vet if out of town and preparation of necessary paperwork if the horse is to cross the U.S. border. There is no pass or fail mark given to the horse, but a report of its health status, and an assessment of the problems that may be encountered in context with the purchasers needs and the management that may be required. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee implied or provided with a prepurchase, however it is still the best way to ensure you do not purchase problems you do not know about! We consider it an important part of our mandate to assist the potential buyer to find the right animal and not to discourage purchase of an older animal with some physical problems related to aging in the case that horse can still be a useful and instructive, safe ride. For this reason you will hear the vet discuss the serviceably sound older athlete as a match for some buyers, in particular the pleasure horse rider. If you have any questions about what the prepurchase exam can do for you, be sure to be there when it is performed and ask the veterinarian to explain the findings and the significance of the tests performed.
