Purchase investigation
A pre-purchase examination (PPE) serves solely to determine the current state of health of the animal by a veterinarian. The result can be considered equivalent to an expert opinion.
A pre-purchase examination (PPE) serves solely to determine the current state of health of a horse by a veterinarian. The result can be considered equivalent to an expert opinion, but it is not a guarantee for the horse's future health. The findings are discussed in detail with the client, who can then make their purchase decision based on this expert opinion and the discussion of the findings. A thorough clinical examination performed by a veterinarian reduces the risk of overlooking any defects in the horse. However, there are some illnesses that cannot be detected immediately during this examination.
In principle, each client, i.e., both seller and buyer, can determine the scope of the pre-purchase examination. Choosing the "smallest" option usually refers to a clinical pre-purchase examination.
X-rays are used to try to obtain additional information about the horse's health. The veterinarian can use overview radiographs of the limbs to assess the condition of the depicted joints and bones – for example, whether a joint chip or arthritic changes are present. Since 2018, Germany has had a "Radiographic Guideline" according to which standardized radiographs can also be evaluated in Austria. The evaluation categorizes findings into those that correspond to normal radiographic anatomy and those that pose a risk. However, this assessment must always be considered in conjunction with the results of the clinical examination and other factors (current performance, previous radiographic findings). Because an X-ray examination alone cannot determine a horse's suitability for riding. During the X-ray examination, the client can choose, for example, the smallest X-ray profile with 12 images or the one from the German X-ray guidelines with 18 images. Additional diagnostics may be advisable to minimize the risk for the buyer or seller. Services: Clinical pre-purchase examination X-ray examinations and interpretation according to the X-ray guidelines Additional endoscopy, blood tests (doping substances), ultrasound examination, ophthalmological examination as part of a purchase