Pre-Purchase Exams

Before purchasing a new horse, whether for pleasure or competition through the upper levels, a performance and purchase examination should be completed.  These examinations include a comprehensive physical, a soundness evaluation over various surfaces and examination with a rider, often performing in the horse’s desired discipline.  Some examinations also involve evaluation of the skeletal system with radiographs or ultrasound, the upper airway with an endoscopic evaluation, laboratory testing of the blood and/or drug screening tests.

To perform a proper pre-purchase examination, a rider who can appropriately ride the animal should be available for the appointment.  A proper riding area also needs to be available for the evaluation.  Suitable protective headgear and appropriate tack should be brought to the appointment as well.

A written report is generated after this evaluation, and the prospective buyer is often delivered a comprehensive package of materials within a few days of the appointment (our personal goal is an electronic report to the buyer's email within 24 hours).  Most recently video documentation of the purchase exams has become popular. If you are interested in this, please mention when you call to assure the camera is packed for the visit.