What is included in a pre-purchase examination for a sport horse?

A pre-purchase examination includes a full clinical evaluation, detailed orthopedic and lameness assessment, flexion tests, gait analysis, and diagnostic imaging such as digital radiography and ultrasound when indicated. The goal is to assess performance risk and long-term athletic durability rather than a simple pass or fail result.

Why should I choose an independent veterinarian for a pre-purchase exam?

An independent veterinarian has no relationship with the seller, agent or training stable. This ensures objective evaluation, transparent interpretation of findings and unbiased advice focused solely on protecting the buyer’s investment and long-term performance goals.

Is a basic vet check sufficient when buying a show jumping horse?

A basic pass/fail vet check is often insufficient for show jumping or high-level sport horses. These horses require performance-oriented orthopedic assessment and careful interpretation of subtle findings that may impact future soundness, durability and competition potential.

Can I purchase a sport horse in Europe without attending the examination?

Yes. Many international buyers purchase sport horses remotely. Clear communication, detailed diagnostics, and comprehensive English reports allow informed decisions even when the buyer cannot be physically present during the examination.

How should radiographic findings be interpreted in sport horses?

Radiographic findings must be interpreted in a clinical and performance context. Some changes may be common and acceptable depending on the horse’s discipline, age and intended use, while others may increase long-term orthopedic risk. Interpretation should focus on relevance rather than isolated images.

Who is this veterinary service best suited for?

This service is designed for professional riders, competitive amateurs, trainers, owners and investors purchasing sport or show jumping horses in Europe, particularly international buyers seeking independent, performance-focused veterinary guidance.

Does a pre-purchase exam guarantee future performance?

No veterinary examination can guarantee future performance. A pre-purchase exam provides a risk assessment based on current clinical and diagnostic findings, helping buyers make informed, risk-aware decisions rather than offering guarantees.

In which regions does SportHorses.Vet operate?

SportHorses.Vet operates primarily in Belgium and across Europe, supporting both local and international buyers purchasing sport and show jumping horses.

Sport Horses Veterinary | Equine Sport Medicine

The epidural canal in horses is a key anatomical space within the spinal column, located between the periosteum of the vertebral canal and the dura mater. This space contains adipose tissue, venous plexuses and interstitial fluid, which allows for diffusion of medications and facilitates neural communication in the lumbosacral and caudal region.

Consultas: +32 493 86 44 91

+32 493 86 44 91

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10/FEB/2025

Clinical Applications in High Performance Horses

Treatment of Radiculitis and Nerve Compressions.
Epidural Infiltration for Pain Management in Jumping Horses.

Indications:

Common problems in jumping horses:

Compression of nerve roots in the lumbosacral region due to overloading in the swing.
Inflammation of dorsal spinal nerve roots → Can cause weakness in posteriors.
Neuropathic pain in the lumbosacral region.
Alterations in the mechanics of the hindcarriage (e.g. chronic pain in the stifles or sacroiliac).

Conclusion

The epidural canal in horses is an essential anatomical structure for hindcarriage mobility, neural protection, and drug delivery in specific clinical conditions. Its correct management in high performance horses can be key to optimize performance and prevent injuries in the lumbosacral region.

SportHorses.vet is an independent equine veterinary service based in Bocholt (3950), Belgium.

Specialized in equine orthopedics, sport horse medicine and performance-oriented veterinary care across Europe.

Cases

Epidural infiltration in the Jumping Horse