The vetting is the one step careful buyers never skip. Here is the flow, the questions worth asking the seller, and the tricks worth seeing through — tick as you go, then take it to the yard.
Never the seller’s vet, and never the seller’s recommendation. An independent examiner works for you alone.
Confirm passport and microchip match the horse in front of you. Review medical and vaccination records before hands go on.
Eyes, heart, teeth and limbs at rest; then walk, trot, flexion tests, and lunge on a hard and soft surface.
Seen ridden under saddle, then heart and breathing checked as it comes back down. Watch it worked, don’t only be told about it.
A standard set of X-rays for the intended job, and a blood sample drawn and stored in case of later question.
A signed report and a clear opinion in writing. No funds move until you have read it and slept on it.
Costs, outcomes, and the one rule that has no exception.
A basic PPE with a clinical exam and flexions runs $300–$600 in most of the US. Add a standard set of radiographs and it reaches $800–$2,000. On any meaningful purchase it is the cheapest insurance you will ever buy.
Vets don't pass or fail horses — they report findings and risk for your intended use. A finding that ends one sale is acceptable in another. The decision, and the leverage it gives you on price, is yours.
Never. The examining vet must work for you alone. If the only available vet also treats the seller's horses, ask for full disclosure and the complete clinical history in writing — or truck the horse to a neutral clinic.