IN-DEPTH: PRE-PURCHASE EXAM FOR SPORT AND PLEASURE HORSES


including DP, lateral to medial, and dorsopalmar- lateral medial oblique (DPLMO) and dorsopalmar- medial lateral oblique (DPMLO). In the forelimb, the lateral to medial view is taken in a flexed posi- tion, and in the hind limbs, the author will typically take a standing view. The carpus is imaged with a DP and lateral to medial view unless there is clinical concern with the carpus. The hocks are four stan- dard views, including DP, lateral to medial, DPLMO, and DPMLO. The stifle imaging consists of two views: 20 degree caudoproximal-cranialdistal, and caudolateral to cranialmedial 20 degree oblique. The ultrasonographic exam is also a routine as-


pect of the sport horse pre-purchase exam. The author typically examines all four limbs as a survey with long axis measurements as standard and con- duct cross-sectional area measurements if the struc- ture being imaged is notably enlarged. These measurements are highly variable and should be considered along with the clinical findings of the horse. The soft tissue structures routinely imaged include the soft tissue structures on the palmar/ plantar aspect of the cannon bones as well as the suspensory apparatus and distal check ligament. If excessive digital flexor tendon sheath effusion is observed, examine the soft tissue structures of pal- mar/plantar fetlock and pastern. Additional ultra- sonographic imaging may be performed if there is effusion of the synovial structures or cervical facet disease concerns.


4. Reports


The reporting of exam findings is a crucial part of a successful pre-purchase exam. The use of a tem- plate for consistency is key. The verbiage in the report is also important for legality. Words such as


“on this day,” “at the time of this exam,” and “not a guarantee” will help remind the buyer that the pre- purchase exam is a variable exam that can change quickly. Include a statement in the report indicat- ing the findings of this exam were discussed with said buyer and trainer or representative and that they have received a copy of the report. Other help- ful statements in the report should include the buy- er’s responsibility for confirming the show record of the horse. This can entail a significant amount of research and should fall on the potential buyer to put the necessary time into searching for gaps in the horse’s performance record. Communication is vi- tal to the pre-purchase exam, and the more a report exemplifies all the details noted during the exam, the more successful the outcome. Another common form of reporting is videoing the exam. The author will routinely video the horse trotting on a firm surface, on the lunge line, and under tack before and after canter. It is helpful to be able to refer back to the video if the need arises. The veterinary practi- tioner plays a key role in the purchase of a horse. Taking the time to perform an in depth clinical exam, researching the history of the horse, and re- cording the findings in a consistent manner, will give the buyer the confidence they need to make the right decision for them.


Acknowledgments


Declaration of Ethics The Author has adhered to the Principles of Veter- inary Medical Ethics of the AVMA.


Conflict of Interest The Author has no conflicts of interest.


258 2018  Vol. 64  AAEP PROCEEDINGS


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