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How much does it cost to have a horse vetted before you buy it2007-11-24 21:15:51

I am interested in buying a horse but want to have a vet check it out. Does anyone have a ballpark figure on how much this will be? I am completely clueless on vet costs. Also, do you think it would include blood sampling?

Answers:

Basic vet checking, better known as a pre purchase exam or PPE, generally includes flexion tests, blood sampling, overall general health and conformation and is usually around $200. They will ask you what you intend to use the horse for, and assess the suitability of the horse based on whatever you decide to pay for. If you are looking for a jumper, and only do a basic exam with no x-rays, the vet will not be able to assess the internal bone structure fr things like splints, chips, arthritic indicators, and so forth that could be important for a horse that's going to jump. In that case, he will likely recommend a more thorough check. Adding x-rays averages about $50 each. The PPE is a good time to establish a professional relationship with a vet for your future needs as well. Call around to find a vet that will not only do the exam, but is accepting new clients and ask other owners who had been good for them to use. However do not use the seller's vet due to the conflict of interest. Hope that helped!

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It depeneds on the vet you will be usings prices. Aks your vet and see what can be done and how much it will cost. Hope it helped!

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A through vet examine, possibly including x-rays of the legs, is one of the cheapest things you can do with a horse. Horses have a lovely way of lopping things open, getting sick, and generally going lame. Best to know what you are getting in for BEFORE purchase. Some problems can be lived with, depending on the horses purpose. (Example: an old horse with arthritis will be fine when used for occasional pleasure riding by a small light-weight rider with some medication for comfort.)