Racehorse PPEs
Experienced with racehorse examinations, including HKJC, MRA and international purchases.
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Pre-Purchase Horse Examinations
Make a more informed decision before you buy.
A pre-purchase examination provides an independent veterinary assessment of a horse's health, soundness and suitability for your intended use — whether it's a racehorse, performance horse, pleasure horse, broodmare or young prospect.
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Mornington Peninsula & Greater Melbourne
Australia-wide Examinations
International Examinations
What is a Pre-Purchase Examination?
A pre-purchase examination (PPE) is a veterinary assessment performed before purchasing a horse. It helps identify findings that may affect the horse's health, welfare, performance or suitability for your intended use.
At RVS, we tailor each examination to the individual horse and your goals.
Why Have a PPE?
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Identify existing or previously unrecognised findings
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Understand potential risks before purchasing
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Assess suitability for your intended use
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Use veterinary expertise to guide your decision
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Make a more informed purchasing decision
2-Stage vs 5-Stage Examinations
We offer both 2-stage and 5-stage examinations, depending on your needs, the horse and its intended use.
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2-Stage Examination
A comprehensive assessment at rest and in motion.
- Stage 1 – Examination at rest
- Stage 2 – Examination in motion
5-Stage Examination
A more detailed assessment including exercise and recovery.
- Stage 1 – Examination at rest
- Stage 2 – Initial movement
- Stage 3 – Exercise
- Stage 4 – Recovery
- Stage 5 – Final examination
Does a Horse Pass or Fail a PPE?
A PPE is not simply a pass-or-fail test. Your veterinarian identifies and interprets findings and discusses their significance in relation to your intended use. The final decision is always yours.
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Risk Assessment & Intended Use
The most important question isn't just 'Is the horse sound?' — it's 'Is this horse suitable for the job I want it to do?' We consider factors such as discipline, level of competition, age, history and your goals to help you understand the potential risks and make an informed decision.
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Diagnostic Imaging& Testing
Where required, we can include advanced diagnostics as part of your PPE.
Specialist PPE Services
Performance & Sport Horse PPEs
Tailored assessments for show jumping, dressage, eventing and other disciplines.
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Yearling & Sales Assessments
Review of X-rays, endoscopy and veterinary records for sales prospects.
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Interstate & International Purchasers
Australia-wide and international examinations, plus repository radiograph and endoscopy review.
LEARN MORE ›Frequently Asked Questions
A pre-purchase examination helps identify findings that may affect a horse's health, welfare, performance or suitability for its intended use.
The time required depends on the type of examination, the horse and any additional diagnostics required.
A PPE is not simply a pass-or-fail test. Findings are interpreted in relation to the horse's intended use.
Additional diagnostic imaging may be recommended depending on the horse, intended use and examination findings.
Existing diagnostic records can be reviewed where appropriate as part of the purchasing assessment.
RVS provides pre-purchase examination services for interstate and international purchasers.