After scanning the classifieds and asking around, you might have found a horse that might fit the bill, so the first step is to pick up the phone and give the owner a call to confirm whether the horse is right for you. Bring your own breeches, boots, half-chaps and helmet. Bring your freind or riding instructor to help you judge whether the horse is right for you andgive you pointers while you ride. Pay attention as the owner catches the horse,grooms and tacks up. Groom the horse yourself too; You can tell a lot about a horse by handeling it. Leave no stone unturned as you try out your new potential horse. You are planning to make a big investment financially and emotionly, so find out as much as you can. Horse shopping is a good time to listen to your gut instincts. If you feel like the horse is wrong for you, you're probably right.
1. Complete hands on general health exam
2. Vital Sighns
3. Eye's aand hearing
4.Teeth and Mouth
5. Observation at walk, trot, canter; both directions.
6. Recovery Time Check
7. Flexion and range of motron tests on all leg joints
Additional Options:
1. Radiographs (X-Rays) of legs
2. Endoscopy to check for normal laryn x function
3. Complete blood count (CBC)
4. Drug Screeaning
5. Serum Chemistry
6. Coggins Test
Beware of any of the following furing a pre-purchase exam:
1. Horse is soor.
2. Horse is in poor body condition: (Very thin, poor hair coat, ect.)
3. Lameness
4. Wounds or sores that aern't healed.
5. Bone defects of any knid.
6. Seller who seems nervous or in a hurry to sell.
7. Seller who doesn't know the horse very well or hasn't owned him very long (Always ask how long the seller has owned the horse and why s/he is selling.)