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.

Services

Orthopedic

Consultas: +32 493 86 44 91

+32 493 86 44 91

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01/FEB/2024

Equine Orthopedic Veterinarian in Belgium – Sport Horses

We are specialists in equine orthopedics for sport horses, based in Belgium, providing advanced veterinary services for show jumpers, dressage horses, and high-performance sport horses throughout Europe.

Our approach is focused on accurate diagnosis, effective treatments, and performance optimization, combining strong clinical experience, advanced technology, and an in-depth understanding of equine biomechanics.

Equine orthopedics focuses on the musculoskeletal system — bones, joints, tendons, ligaments, and muscles — which are essential for athletic longevity and functional value. Expert orthopedic evaluation is critical both for clinical treatment and for pre-purchase examinations (vet checks) in Europe.

Our core services include:

Advanced orthopedic clinical evaluation

We perform comprehensive orthopedic examinations, including gait analysis, flexion tests, and functional assessment on straight lines and circles, on both hard and soft surfaces, to precisely localize the source of pain or lameness.

High-precision diagnostic imaging

We use digital radiography and musculoskeletal ultrasound to assess joints, subchondral bone, tendons, ligaments, and musculature—key structures in high-level sport horses.

Specialized orthopedic treatments

We manage conditions such as arthritis, desmitis, tendinitis, joint pathology, and back and sacroiliac disorders, using ultrasound-guided injections, regenerative therapies, and individualized treatment protocols.

Rehabilitation and return to sport

We design tailored rehabilitation programs, including controlled exercise, physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, laser, magnet therapy, and continuous clinical follow-up to ensure a safe and efficient return to competition.

Injury prevention and performance optimization

We advise on training management, farriery, nutrition, and injury prevention strategies, helping to extend the athletic career of sport horses.

International interdisciplinary collaboration

We work closely with trainers, physiotherapists, farriers, laboratories, and international buyers, delivering a comprehensive, performance-oriented service.