Buying Guides
The veterinary examination is one of the most important independent checks in a horse purchase. Its purpose is not to “pass” or “fail” a horse, but to give the buyer information relevant to the intended use.
The veterinarian should act for the buyer and be able to discuss findings directly with the buyer. When purchasing away from home, ask who regularly works with the seller and make clear that you want an independent opinion.
Give the veterinarian the horse’s identity and your intended use before the examination. A horse intended for leisure riding, breeding or advanced dressage may justify different questions and a different diagnostic scope.
There is no single examination that suits every horse or every budget. Discuss the clinical examination, assessment in movement and any additional tests in advance. If radiographs are requested, agree which regions are to be imaged and why those images are relevant to your purchase.
If previous radiographs exist, ask when they were taken and whether the veterinarian considers new images appropriate. The decision should be based on the current horse, intended use and the buyer’s risk tolerance rather than a generic checklist.
The vetting appointment is also an opportunity to confirm that the horse examined matches the passport or identification supplied for the sale. Share any known medical or competition history provided by the seller with the veterinarian.
Ask the veterinarian to explain any finding in plain language: what was observed, what further investigation might clarify it, and why it may or may not matter for the job you want the horse to do.
Radiographs can provide useful information, but more images do not automatically equal a better purchasing decision. The image set should be appropriate to the horse and the buyer’s objectives. Additional diagnostics or blood sampling may be considered when the buyer and veterinarian agree they are useful.
Keep copies of reports and diagnostic images that form part of your purchase assessment. If a second opinion is needed, having the original files available makes that discussion easier.
A pre-purchase examination is a snapshot taken on a particular day. It cannot predict every future injury or guarantee performance. The final decision belongs to the buyer after considering the veterinary findings alongside temperament, training, price and intended use.
If a finding concerns you, do not rush. Ask questions, obtain a second opinion where appropriate, or decide that another horse is a better match. A good purchase process leaves enough time for an informed decision.
Once the buyer is comfortable with the veterinary information, confirm the commercial terms and transport plan. For international transport, health documentation and entry requirements vary by destination and can change, so they should be checked for the actual journey.
Majestic Horses can coordinate independent pre-purchase examinations and transport planning for buyers considering horses in Spain.
If you have shortlisted a horse through Majestic Horses, ask us about arranging an independent pre-purchase examination before the sale is finalised.
