These exams may include, but are not limited to, a neurological exam, heart and lungs examined at rest and after work, joint flexion tests, oral exam, evaluation of the gaits, exam with hoof testers, etc. Once the exams are complete, the buyer will be provided with a report of the results of the exams. An important aspect of the whole process is keeping the channels of communication open among the buyer, seller, and the veterinarian. It is important that the client ask questions if he or she does not understand terminology or the significance of a finding. By asking questions, the client will be an informed buyer.
Communication ends with a report by the veterinarian at the conclusion of the exam.
Clients need to understand the main point of a purchase exam is to inform them as buyers of the health status of a particular horse. There always will be room for error. However, with quality laboratories processing the results and with proper handling of the samples, accurate results can be expected in most cases. Another common mistake made by buyers is that they look at the purchase exam as an appraisal of the horse's monetary value. Determining the monetary value of the horse is the responsibility of the buyer or the buyer's agent, not the veterinarian.