Horses are a complex, long-term financial and physical commitment. Ensure you have the necessary facilities, experience, and resources for this specific breed and training level. Always budget for a Pre-Purchase Examination (PPE) by a veterinarian of your choice.
Requirement | Key Questions to Ask the Seller | Documents to Verify |
Coggins Test (EIA) | When was the horse's last negative Coggins test? (Mandatory for interstate travel and often required for sales in the US). | Negative Coggins Test Certificate (Must be current—usually within 6–12 months). |
Pre-Purchase Exam (PPE) | Will the seller allow a Pre-Purchase Examination by your own licensed veterinarian? (Recommended for all horse purchases). | Agree upon who pays for the PPE before the exam. |
Vaccinations | When was the last 5-way/4-way vaccine given (Tetanus, Flu, Rhino, EEE/WEE)? | Current Vaccination Records and the contact information for their vet. |
History & Issues | Has the horse ever had colic, laminitis (founder), recurring lameness, or undergone surgical procedures? | Full disclosure of all known medical conditions, past and present. |
Paperwork | Do they possess the horse's breed registration papers? Is the horse microchipped? | Breed Registration Papers (if applicable). Signed Bill of Sale. |
Riding/Handling Test: Ask to ride the horse yourself (if trained) or observe the seller riding/handling it. NEVER purchase sight-unseen.
Temperament: Is the horse calm when handled (grooming, loading, tacking up)? Does it have vices (cribbing, weaving, biting)?
Farrier History: When was the last time the horse saw the farrier? Are they trimmed or shod?
Dentition: When was the horse's last dental check-up (floating)? Are there any known issues with biting/chewing?
Insurance: Does the seller have insurance on the horse? (You should plan to obtain insurance yourself immediately upon purchase).
Transportation: Are they responsible for transport, or are you? Finalize the details and time frame for the transfer of possession.
Ownership Transfer: Ensure all necessary microchip and breed registry paperwork is completed for ownership transfer before the horse leaves the seller's property.