Companion Animal Welfare

Horse Pre-Purchase Examination Welfare

Pre-purchase examination by a qualified vet protects both buyer and horse welfare by identifying health and soundness issues before purchase.

Key Facts

A five-stage vetting includes resting examination, trot-up, flexion tests, exercise and post-exercise assessment
Additional diagnostics including X-rays and scopes add significant information at additional cost
Veterinary pre-purchase examination is the buyer's assessment protecting their interests
Identified health issues can be managed but should be understood before purchase commitment
Horses purchased for inappropriate jobs due to undetected health conditions suffer welfare harm

Welfare Considerations

Pre-purchase examination protects horse welfare by ensuring that buyers understand the health status of animals they purchase and can provide appropriate care. A horse purchased with undetected conditions for an inappropriate purpose will suffer welfare harm preventable through proper examination.

What You Can Do

Commission a pre-purchase veterinary examination before any horse purchase
Discuss with the examining vet which additional diagnostics are appropriate for the intended use
Be prepared to walk away if examination findings indicate unsuitability for the intended purpose