Pre-Purchase Exam Essentials

We’ve all heard the horse-buying horror stories. Shortly after bringing a new horse home, he comes up lame, displays a different (and unappealing) change in behavior or exhibits some other unforeseen health concern. In some cases, the timing is pure coincidence. In others, though, the problem is one that a skilled veterinarian could have uncovered sooner.

The lesson here? No matter how ideal that horse looks, before you finalize the sale, take one last step and have your veterinarian conduct a pre-purchase exam. After all, you’re about to hand over a significant amount of money, and you’re counting on taking home a horse who can help you realize your dreams. Now is not the time to skimp or rush. It’s the time to do everything you can to minimize risk and maximize the chances that what you think you’re buying is actually what you get.

The Value of an Exam

There are huge benefits to a pre-purchase exam, says Barb Crabbe, DVM, owner of the Pacific Crest Sporthorse veterinary practice in Oregon City, Oregon. “Rarely do we look at a horse in [this much] detail, even when we own them,” she says. “And once you have reached the pre-purchase point of looking at a horse, typically you are in love and reallysomeone else to keep you honest.”