Equine prepurchase exam

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To identify any preexisting problems which may hinder a horse’s future performance and reduce buyer risk, it is often a good idea to request a prepurchase exam from the seller.[1] The inspection usually consists of four phases in which a veterinarian examines all aspects of the horse’s health.[1]

Contents

[edit] The Role of the Veterinarian

Veterinarians play a crucial role in prepurchase exams.[1] To best assess a horse’s current and future soundness, it is imperative that the veterinarian be familiar with the particular horse’s breed, prospective use and have a working knowledge of competition rules.[1] According to Pavord & Fisher, veterinarians are to determine the relative ‘soundness’ of the horse; they are really assessing “…the health status of the horse together with medical abnormalities”.[2] This being said, veterinarians are expected to explain and record any medical abnormalities/concerns revealed while performing the exam.[1] They are not, however, guaranteeing the soundness of the horse.[1] It is also recommended that veterinarians remain neutral to both buyer and seller to avoid any future discrepancies.[1]

[edit] The Importance of Being "Sound"

Upon completion of the prepurchase exam, the veterinarian may utilize a variety of terms to describe the horse’s current health status [3]. The ultimate goal for horse buyers is to purchase a horse classified as “sound,” or “…one that cannot be faulted in any physical way, from the inside out”.[3] A horse may be categorized as “serviceably sound” if it has some structural problems, but is able to perform its intended purpose.[3] If a veterinarian deems a horse unfit for its intended use, the horse will most likely be considered “unsound”.[3] An unsoundness usually refers to any condition which will severely inhibit the horse from performing.[3] Examples of unsoundnesses include dental diseases, blindness or other eye problems, founder and tumors.[3]

[edit] Phases of the Exam

The first part of the exam involves thorough identification of the horse.[1] This includes documentation of color, age and any distinguishing characteristics/scars/brands/tattoos the horse may have.[1] Vital signs of the horse will also be assessed along with an examination of the horse’s eyes, teeth and manure.[1] A urine sample is usually required of competition horses to ensure the absence of performance-altering medications.[1] According to the Merck Veterinary Manual, “The date, time and place of the examination should also be recorded”.[1]

The second phase of the exam begins with a general assessment of the horse’s body and skin condition.[1] It is customary for the veterinarian to assign the horse a body condition score ranging from 1 to 9, with 1 being emaciated and 9 being obese.[1] Scores of 4, 5, or 6 are within the acceptable range for performance, breeding and halter horses.[1]

After a visual assessment of the horse has been made, the veterinarian will then begin palpation of the limbs.[1] By watching the horse perform a variety of movements on different surfaces, a veterinarian is able to get a good idea of the horse’s general soundness.[1] Riding the horse may or may not be incorporated into the exam, according to the intended use of the horse.[1] Forcing the horse to move in straight lines and circles is also helpful in revealing any blemishes.[1] A passive/active flexion test is commonly performed along with a thorough hoof examination.[1] A basic neurological exam may also be part of this third examination phase.[1]

The fourth and final phase of the exam is known as the ‘diagnostic’ phase.[1] Radiography, nuclear scans and ultrasonography may be necessary to determine soundness with special emphasis placed on the examination of the navicular bone and distal phalanx.[1] Higher radiographic grades of these areas are usually indicative of lameness and should be noted in a prepurchase exam.[1]

[edit] Summary

A prepurchase exam conducted by a veterinarian is one step a horse buyer can take to reduce their risk of buying an unsound horse.[1] Although the diagnostic procedures involved in a prepurchase exam can reveal most medical abnormalities, the suitability of the horse for its intended use is ultimately up to the buyer.[1] Careful measures should be taken to maintain the accuracy of all health records and exam history in the event a horse owner/buyer must defend the horse.[1]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m n o p q r s t u v w x y z aa Kahn, Cynthia (2005). The Merck Veterinary Manual, 9th, Merck, 1385-1387. ISBN 0911910506. 
  2. ^ Fisher, Rod (1987). The Equine Veterinary Manual. The Crowod Press, pg. 10. 
  3. ^ a b c d e f Cernik, Sheridan Lee (1977). Preventative Medicine and Management for the Horse. A.S. Barnes and Co. Inc., 71-72.