Page 1062 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

The prepurchase examination is a worthwhile investment as it may prevent you from

spending a large sum of money on a horse that is unlikely to fulfil your requirements. As the
VetBooks.ir examination is time-consuming, it is not cheap. You should ask your vet for an estimate of
the cost before the examination is undertaken. Tell your vet of any particular concerns that

you have before the visit and provide all available information such as performance records
and videos.

Try to be as sure as possible that this is the right horse for you before the veterinary
inspection. Whilst at the yard look around the stable for any evidence of cribbing. Check the

droppings are normal and note the type of bedding and forage. Is the hay soaked?

Ask the vendor:
• Has he had any previous surgery?

• Is he on any medication?

• Can the horse be caught easily?

• Does he load and travel without problems?
• Is he quiet to shoe?

• How does he behave in traffic?

• Is the horse good to clip?

• Has the horse had any issues that affect riding such as napping or headshaking?
• Does he have any stable vices?

It is advisable to ask some all-encompassing questions such as whether there is anything in
the horse’s temperament, physical health or past history that may affect your decision to

purchase. Ask the vendor how long they have known the horse and had it under their
personal care. Is the horse currently insured and are there any exclusions in place? Has the

horse had any corrective farriery? Preparing these questions in advance will help to ensure
that nothing is forgotten.

The answers to these questions can make a difference to the value and usefulness of the
horse to you and include points that may not be shown up by a veterinary examination for

purchase. Obtaining a warranty from the vendor on these issues together with aspects of
medical history such as allergies including sweet itch or a stable cough is recommended.

ESTIMATING THE AGE OF A HORSE FROM ITS TEETH

Estimating the age of a horse from its teeth is not straightforward. The older the horse, the