Equine Vettings

at the barn equine surgery

        
 4.9 
   Top Rated 
 Service 2026
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Purchasing a horse is a significant investment, and at The Barn Equine Surgery, we are committed to providing thorough and professional pre-purchase examinations, commonly referred to as “vettings.”

Our experienced veterinary team conducts comprehensive assessments to help you make informed decisions, ensuring the horse is sound, healthy, and suitable for its intended purpose.

We proudly serve local clients as well as those from other regions, with many referred to us by vets across the country when buying in central southern England. Our pre-purchase exams follow the guidelines set by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) and the British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) to ensure the highest standard of care and accuracy.

5-Stage Vetting Process

Our standard pre-purchase vettings are carried out in five detailed stages, each designed to assess the horse’s overall health and performance capabilities:

1. Preliminary Examination:

A comprehensive clinical examination, including a thorough assessment of the horse’s heart (using a stethoscope), eyes (with an ophthalmoscope), and limbs. The entire body is carefully inspected for any abnormalities.

2. Walk and Trot in Hand:

The horse’s movement is evaluated at a walk and trot to identify any visible lameness or gait abnormalities.

3. Exercise Phase:

The horse is exercised, typically under saddle, to detect any issues that may not be apparent when handled in hand. This phase helps identify problems such as:

Bridle lameness
Headshaking
Back issues
Bitting discomfort
Respiratory conditions (e.g., roaring, whistling)

4. Period of Rest and Re-examination:

After exercise, the horse is given a period of rest, during which time the heart rate and respiratory functions are monitored. The limbs are reassessed for any signs of stress or strain caused by exertion.

5. Second Trot Up:

A final trot-up is performed to check for any post-exercise lameness or other issues that may have developed during the assessment.

Limited Vettings

In some cases, a purchaser may request a more limited examination, typically involving only the first two stages. If this is the case, a signed agreement from the buyer is required. However, for horses intended to be ridden, we generally recommend a full five-stage examination to provide a more complete evaluation.

Advanced Diagnostics

For higher-value horses or in cases where additional investigation is warranted, we offer advanced diagnostic services such as:

Digital X-rays
Ultrasound Scans
Endoscopic Examinations

These tools allow for a more in-depth evaluation of the horse’s internal structures, ensuring that no potential health issues are overlooked.

Why Choose Us?

At The Barn Equine Surgery, our vets bring a wealth of experience to every vetting, offering you peace of mind as you make your decision. We understand that purchasing a horse is a significant emotional and financial investment, and our thorough vetting process is designed to protect your interests and ensure the health and soundness of your potential new horse.