Purchasing a horse can be a big investment, especially when considering the long-term management and care the equine will require. The Athletic Horse offers comprehensive  Vet-Checks or Pre-Purchase evaluations by Dr. Young. These exams are designed to give the buyer as much information as possible on their potential purchase and are not structured in a pass or fail format. A Pre-Purchase evaluation, although thorough, is only a snapshot in time and it may not be possible to identify all underlying conditions, especially those that are more subtle or are not showing clinical signs at the time of exam. This extended exam includes evaluation of:

• Vital Parameters

• Locomotion on hard and soft surfaces (when possible)

• Ophthalmology

• Dentistry

• Neck, Back, Sacrum, Barrel

• Integument

• Palpation of limbs

• Flexion tests for soundness

• Neurologic deficits

• Radiographs are strongly encouraged and we have several repository packages available for prospective buyers.

• In-house CBC/Chem panel suggested 

• Blood will be pulled and stored for 90 days should either party elect to run a drug screen

All findings (with the exception of pending lab results) will be documented and discussed at the time of the exam. Although it is not possible to predict future athletic ability and long-term longevity of the horse, Dr. Young will offer an opinion on potential management practices for the stated use of the equine athlete. Hand-written notes or a phone consultation is available same-day, a finalized report will be typed up and sent to the buyer within approximately one week of examination. The finalized report and any imaging can also be shared with your regular veterinarian at the sole request of the buyer. 

• Radiology Reviews- Dr. Young offers radiograph review services to existing clients. Whether you are purchasing a horse outside of our practice area or outside of the country, Dr. Young can review radiographs and give his opinion on potential risk. Additional fees apply for flexion or lameness videos. Please contact us ahead of time if you are expecting to send films for review or to inquire about suggested radiographic views. 

• Case Consultations may be available if you have been working with an associate veterinarian on a Sports Medicine related issue and are interested in an additional opinion. Although nothing can replace a physical examination, Dr. Young may be able to draw on his clinical experience and offer his professional opinion on your horse’s lameness case. Please reach out to us directly before sending any imaging or records.