Pre-Purchase Horse Evaluations
The pre-purchase evaluation enables us to gather and interpret the information necessary to help you select the horse best suited to your needs.
For us to fairly evaluate the horse, the animal should be fit, conditioned, and in training for its intended use. A horse that has been laid off for some time will be difficult to evaluate for lameness.
At Sturgis Veterinary Hospital & Equine Center, we want to help you make sure your next horse will meet all the physical demands of your training program.
The Purpose of a Pre-Purchase Exam
Pre-purchase examinations are often requested by a potential horse buyer.
The objective is to reduce the buyer’s risks when purchasing a new horse and determine the general health and athletic soundness of the horse for sale.
The examination is not meant to guarantee that the horse is sound.
It is an attempt, on the part of the examining veterinarian, to ascertain any preexisting problem or any potential problem that may affect future soundness (e.g., degenerative joint disease).
If you are considering purchasing a horse, contact us. We will coordinate with you and the seller to book a pre-purchase examination.
Pre-Purchase Exam Steps
Pre-Purchase exams consist of five main steps:
- Comprehensive standing evaluation of the entire horse, including the heart, lungs, eyes, gastrointestinal tract, musculoskeletal system, and overall body condition.
- Movement evaluation where the horse is observed at the walk and trot on both soft and hard footing.
- Flexion tests performed on each limb to assess joint and soft-tissue response.
- Optional diagnostic imaging. X-rays are not standard but can be added at the buyer’s request. Buyers may choose specific views based on the horse’s intended use, history, or any concerns identified during the exam.
- Optional laboratory testing. Lab work such as Coggins, chemistry panels, and a Complete Blood Count (CBC) can be performed upon request. A full drug screen is also available if the buyer would like additional assurance.