Pre-Purchase Examinations (Vettings)

The Vetting Definition: to make a careful and critical examination.

A pre-purchase examination (PPE) or “vetting” is a thorough clinical examination carried out on behalf of a potential purchaser to identify and assess factors which may affect a horse’s suitability for its intended use. We strongly recommend that in a pre-purchase situation a full five stage vetting is carried out by an experienced veterinary surgeon to give you a comprehensive and detailed evaluation of the horse’s suitability for purpose.

Each pre-purchase examination is carried out on behalf of the specific prospective purchaser so that the opinion can be based on that purchaser’s individual needs and intended use of the horse. Examinations performed on behalf of a seller are not advised except in the case of a few specified auction sales.

A pre-purchase examination follows a standardised protocol that is the same across the UK and following the examination you will be issued with a certificate detailing any relevant findings. At Severn Edge Equine we are have a team of vets that are experienced and confident in 2 and 5 Stage Vettings from First Ponies through to World Class competition horses. 

Types of examination:

Pre-purchase exams are referred to as 2 Stage or 5 Stage.

A 2 Stage PPE involves exactly the same first two stages as a 5 Stage and they are performed just as thoroughly as in the 5 Stage examination.

However, the omission of the final three stages does carry the risk of not detecting some problems, so in most cases we would suggest performing the full 5 Stage examination.

• Download the vetting guidance document.

Prior to your vetting:

• Be very clear about the intended use of the horse and future expectations.
• Look up any relevant competition records – if there are unexplained gaps or performance issues discuss these with your trainer or veterinary surgeon.
• Request a clinical history is sent to the veterinary surgeon performing the examination.
• Ensure there are adequate facilities to perform a thorough examination:  We require a stable that can be darkened in order to perform the eye examination. A flat, firm area is needed to perform the trot ups as well as an area for lunging the horse, preferably on a firm level surface.
• Additionally for 5 Stage exams we need a suitable place to perform the ridden phase in walk, trot and canter – preferably an arena – and also rider for this phase.
• We will also need to see the horse’s passport.
• Seek advice from your insurance company regarding the need for x-rays and the views required.

If you would like to book a vetting call the office team on 01584 841080.

Please note:  If we are asked to do a limited 2 stage examination (part vetting) we require a disclaimer to be signed by the purchaser prior to the examination being undertaken.

• Download our Disclaimer form.