Vettings
Horse vettings in Devon and Cornwall
We carry out pre-purchase examinations (PPE) throughout Devon and Cornwall and, on special request, further afield.
Diagnostics
Endoscopy is routinely used to examine the respiratory systems of racehorses and can be used for any horse with excessive respiratory noise on exercise.
Ultrasonographic examination of the reproductive tract is available and recommended for those horses being purchased for breeding purposes.
We have portable x-ray, endoscopy and ultrasound equipment, meaning any or all of the additional procedures can be carried out during a PPE, if requested at the time, with no need for transportation to a hospital centre.
The potential vendor may be given a verbal opinion by the veterinary surgeon at the time of the PPE and a detailed certificate is issued soon after.
The opinion is subject to the limitations of the examination and provides no assurances in respect of those matters that can only be established by a seller’s representation to a purchaser.
Additional tests
Blood samples are commonly obtained as a security measure, and are stored for six months by the Veterinary Defence Society.
They can be tested if any problems arise, for example to check whether painkillers are present if a lameness later appears, or sedatives if there is a behaviour or temperament change.
Other measures may be requested for more valuable purchases and performance horses, including radiographs.
To learn more about the service or book an appointment, please contact the practice.
Once you have chosen a horse or pony that you would like to buy, before making the final decision, it is advisable to have a pre-purchase veterinary examination performed (vet’s certificate or a ‘vetting’ as it is often known).
Pre-purchase examinations are often just a small fraction of the price of a horse and investing in a ‘vetting’ may save you money, time and upset in the future.
If the horse passes the examination, then a certificate will be issued by the veterinary surgeon. This certificate can be used for insuring the horse or pony when the sale is completed