Pre-Purchase Examinations
The pre-purchase exam is used to determine the horse’s current state of health and condition, and to help the purchaser evaluate the suitability for its intended use.
The role of the veterinarian in the pre-purchase examination is not to “pass” or “fail” the horse. Instead, it is to provide information about the horse’s current health, interpret the results of tests, and to present the findings to the purchaser, in terms that the purchaser can understand, so that the purchaser can make an informed decision. Open communication among the purchaser, seller and veterinarian is key in this process.
Included in our pre-purchase examinations:
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Including: cardiovascular, respiratory, neurological, gastrointestinal, ophthalmic, and musculoskeletal systems.
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Involving body and limb palpations, flexion tests, hoof testers and lunging.
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This exam may include other tests such as radiographs, ultrasound, bloodwork, Coggins testing, drug testing, breeding soundness exam, etc. at the buyer’s request.
Insurance
Equine insurers require an insurance examination certificate signed by a veterinarian before a policy will be issued for a horse. This is a legal document, and as veterinarians, we have an obligation to verify claims made about the horse through a thorough physical examination. A veterinarian cannot complete the requested information based on prior knowledge of the horse. This certificate requires that determination of the animal’s state of health be made on the day of the examination.
Please see our resource discussing the types of coverage available.
