to lower the horse’s head so that the nontapetal fundus can be visualized in its entirety.
3. Conclusions
The two most basic parts of the ophthalmic examina- tion are also the most important. The horse’s vision and ocular comfort should be assessed before admin- istration of any sedative agent. The ophthalmic por- tion of the pre-purchase examination is frequently overlooked, but its importance should not be under- rated. Chronic ocular disease can result in tempo- rary or permanent loss of use and frustration for the buyer. On the other hand, it is important that nor- mal variants not be interpreted as lesions of clinical significance. When an unusual abnormality presents itself, it is important to offer referral to a board-certi- fied ophthalmologist to complete the pre-purchase examination.7
References
1. Hurn SD, Turner AG. Ophthalmic examination findings of Thoroughbred racehorses in Australia. Vet Ophthalmol 2006;9:95–100.
