29/09/2026
š“ Did you know that a horseās Pre-Purchase Veterinary Examination (PPE) is specific to THE horse, THE buyer and THE intended use?
We recommend that a PPE should be arranged by the prospective buyer before committing to purchase. It assesses the horseās health and suitability for the buyerās stated intended use at the time of examination.
ā ļø Be cautious if a horse is advertised as having āpassed a 5-stage vettingā. A previous vetting will have been arranged for someone else, based on different requirements and a different intended use. It may also not have been carried out by a vet acting independently for you as the prospective buyer. You should not assume that a previous vetting provides the same protection or information as an examination arranged specifically for you.
Always choose the vet to carry out the PPE yourself; be completely honest and specific about what you intend to use the horse for. This allows the vet to give you an informed and independent professional opinion based on your circumstances.
A PPE is not a guarantee of future health, soundness or performance. It is a professional veterinary opinion of the horse at the time of examination, based on the information available and the intended use you have stated.
š” Think about why you are having the vetting. Are you buying for leisure, competition, breeding or another specific purpose? Is it simply for your own peace of mind, or will you need it for insurance purposes too? If you are arranging insurance, check your insurerās requirements before the examination.
A PPE is there to help you make an informed decision before you buy.
For full information on the vetting process, or to book a vetting with one of our vets, visit our website at https://www.northwestequinevets.co.uk/services/pre-purchase-examinations/ or call us on 0808 168 5580.
