Equine prepurchase exam
In horse trading, an equine prepurchase exam is an examination of a horse requested by the buying party prior to the purchase, in order to identify any preexisting problems which may affect a horse's future performance and reduce buyer risk. The inspection usually consists of four phases in which a veterinarian examines all aspects of the horse's health.[1]
Role of the veterinarian
An equine prepurchase exam is carried out by a veterinarian, who must also have a knowledge of the particular horse's
Assessment of 'soundness'
Upon completion of the prepurchase exam, the veterinarian may use a variety of terms to describe the horse's current health status. Buyers are hoping for a horse classified as 'sound' - which "cannot be faulted in any physical way, from the inside out". A horse may be categorized as "serviceably sound" if it has some structural problems, but is able to perform its intended purpose. If a veterinarian deems a horse unfit for its intended use, the horse will most likely be considered "unsound", usually referring to any condition which will severely inhibit the horse from performing, such as
Phases of the exam
The first part of the exam involves thorough identification of the horse, including documentation of color, age and any distinguishing characteristics/scars/brands/tattoos the horse has. The horse's
The second phase of the exam begins with a general assessment of the horse's body and skin condition. The veterinarian normally assigns the horse a body condition score from 1 to 9, with 1 being emaciated and 9 being obese. 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, the veterinarian then begins palpation of the limbs. By watching the horse perform a variety of movements on different surfaces, the veterinarian is able to evaluate the horse's general soundness.
The fourth and final phase of the exam is known as the 'diagnostic' phase.
References
- ^ ISBN 0-911910-50-6.
- ISBN 0-87605-863-2.
- ISBN 0-498-01925-X.