Equine Pre Purchase Exams

When investing in a new horse, ensuring the animal’s health, soundness, and suitability is essential. At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we provide comprehensive pre-purchase exams designed to give buyers peace of mind before making this significant investment. Whether you’re looking for a performance horse, a breeding prospect, or a companion, our detailed evaluations help you make an informed decision.

Our pre-purchase exams are tailored to your specific needs and can include a range of diagnostic and physical assessments. Serving Waco, McLennan County, and the surrounding areas, our experienced team is committed to offering the highest level of equine care during this critical process.

Why You Need a Pre-Purchase Exam

Purchasing a horse is an exciting but serious commitment, and it's crucial to ensure that the horse is fit for its intended purpose. A thorough pre-purchase exam provides insight into the horse’s current health, potential medical issues, and future soundness. This information can save you from costly surprises down the road and help you determine whether the horse meets your needs, whether for competition, breeding, or leisure.

What Our Pre-Purchase Exam Includes

Our comprehensive pre-purchase exams are customized based on the horse’s intended use and your specific requirements. We work closely with buyers and sellers to provide a clear picture of the horse’s overall health and soundness.

1. Detailed Physical Examination

Our pre-purchase exam starts with a thorough physical evaluation. This includes an assessment of the horse’s:

Cardiovascular system: We check the heart rate, rhythm, and any signs of murmurs or abnormalities.
Respiratory system: The horse’s breathing and lung function are carefully assessed.
Gastrointestinal system: We evaluate the horse’s digestive health and condition.
Ocular health: The eyes are examined to identify any signs of vision impairment or disease.
Skin and coat: A review of the horse’s skin and coat health, looking for signs of parasites, infections, or allergies.
Body condition: We assess the horse’s weight and overall physical condition.

2. Lameness Examination

One of the most important aspects of the pre-purchase exam is the lameness evaluation. We carefully assess the horse’s musculoskeletal system for signs of injury, strain, or joint issues that could affect future performance. This includes:

Movement evaluation: We observe the horse walking, trotting, and turning on various surfaces to check for gait abnormalities or signs of pain.
Flexion tests: These tests involve applying pressure to individual joints to evaluate their flexibility and detect any discomfort or stiffness.
Hoof evaluation: The horse’s hooves are inspected for structural integrity, wear patterns, and any signs of imbalance or disease.

3. Diagnostic Imaging

If the physical and lameness exams suggest any potential concerns, we can perform advanced diagnostic imaging, including:

Digital radiography (X-rays): X-rays are used to examine bones and joints for hidden issues like fractures, arthritis, or developmental abnormalities.
Ultrasound: Ultrasound imaging helps us evaluate soft tissue structures, such as tendons and ligaments, for any signs of damage or inflammation.

4. Laboratory Tests

To ensure a complete health assessment, we offer laboratory testing services, including:

Blood tests: These can identify underlying infections, metabolic disorders, or other internal health issues.
Drug testing: If requested, we can conduct drug screening to ensure the horse has not been administered any substances that could affect performance or behavior.

5. Reproductive Evaluation

For buyers interested in breeding, we provide reproductive evaluations to assess the horse’s fertility and breeding soundness. This includes examining the reproductive organs and reviewing the horse’s breeding history.

Post-Exam Consultation

After the pre-purchase exam, our veterinarians will provide a detailed report on the findings. We’ll take the time to explain the results, discuss any potential concerns, and answer any questions you may have. Based on the exam, you’ll have a clearer understanding of the horse’s health, soundness, and any risks or conditions that may affect its future.

Why Choose Vaquero Equine Hospital?

At Vaquero Equine Hospital, we understand how important it is to make informed decisions when purchasing a horse. Our team is led by Dr. Jeremy Echols, an experienced equine veterinarian committed to providing high-quality, thorough evaluations. We use the latest diagnostic tools and techniques to ensure every pre-purchase exam is accurate and comprehensive.

We proudly serve Waco and the surrounding counties, offering personalized service and expert guidance. Whether you're purchasing a horse for competition, breeding, or leisure, we’re here to help you make the best choice for your equine needs.

Schedule a Pre-Purchase Exam

Before making your next equine investment, trust the professionals at Vaquero Equine Hospital for a thorough pre-purchase exam. Contact us today to schedule your exam and ensure your new horse is the right fit for you.