Pre-Purchase Exams

What Is A Pre-Purchase Exam?

When buying a horse, many buyers ask for an equine pre-purchase exam. This serves to identify any preexisting problems which may hinder a horse’s future performance and reduce buyer risk. The inspection consist of a very thorough examination and if the buyer opts may include x rays, blood work, etc. If the horse must be sedated, though, that authorization must come from the current owner.

Who Pays For The Pre-Purchase Exam?

Typically the person who is going to be buying the horse pays for the pre-purchase vet exam. This means that all discoveries and medical findings discovered during this exam belong to that client.

Confidential Nature Of A Pre-Purchase Exam

A horse pre-purchase exam in its most basic terms is a business deal between two individuals. There are typically no personal feelings and confidentiality is an unwritten rule. If a horse is discovered to be lame it is very unprofessional and taboo to go smearing that horse’s name across the community or internet. Also keep in mind that it is the seller’s decision to release medical records to the buyer and the buyers responsibility to inquire so.

Who performs the pre-purchase exam?

Ideally an impartial veterinarian should perform the pre-purchase exam so that relationships are not a factor. A veterinarian who does not have a relationship with the client and patient has nothing to lose or gain in the event that the horse is not sold or vis-versa.

Horse Pre-Purchase Exams in Prescott Arizona

Horse owners and buyers have a partner they can trust in Prescott Animal Hospital and Equine Center. To learn more about your next horse pre-purchase exam, contact us or set up an appointment today!