All examinations are performed by Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center. The lameness portion of the basic health examination is reviewed by a panel of three veterinarians to ensure consistency of scoring.

Basic Health Examination:
This is an overall examination of the horse in which the doctor looks for common problems seen on a regular basis at our hospital.  This exam includes a basic evaluation of the eyes, ears, nose, teeth, and skin.  It also includes listening to heart sounds and palpation of each leg to identify major abnormalities.  The horse is evaluated for signs of lameness at the trot in both a straight line and circling in each direction.  This exam is less comprehensive than a pre-purchase exam and gives an overview of the horse’s general health and potential problems that may arise in the future. 

All horses on the VetCheckedHorses.com website have had a basic health examination and the results are available for purchase on-line. The following additional examinations can be scheduled with Loomis Basin Equine Medical Center (typically within 2 business days). We recommend that all horses undergo a complete pre-purchase exam as listed below before purchasing a horse.

Find out how to schedule a basic health exam here.

Pre-purchase Examination:
This is a comprehensive examination during which the doctor evaluates the different parts of the horse’s body.  It also includes a thorough lameness examination to evaluate the soundness of the horse when subjected to a variety of conditions.  Flexion tests are used on each leg to identify specific areas of concern. 

Reproductive Examination:
This is an exam that focuses on both the internal and external parts of the reproductive system in the mare or the stallion, respectively.  A rectal ultrasound exam is commonly performed on mares, as well as careful examination of the external genitalia.  Specific tests may include evaluation of the semen, uterine cytology, or uterine biopsy.

X-rays:
The most common x-rays requested are of the front feet, hocks, fetlocks, and stifles.  Most other joints can also be x-rayed if there is a concern.  Other regions that can be evaluated through x-rays include the neck, head, and back.