1 . Preliminary Examination:
A thorough external examination of the animal using visual observation, palpation and manipulation to detect clinically apparent signs of injury, disease or physical abnormality. Includes an examination of the incisor teeth, a thorough examination of the eye's in a darkened environment and auscultation of the horses heart and lungs at rest.
(Please note that the standard examination does not include dilating the pupil of the eye, examination inside the prepuce (sheath), a detailed mouth examination with a speculum, a height measurement or any examination for pregnancy)
2 . Walk and Trot, in hand
The animal is walked and then trotted in hand to detect abnormalities of gait and action. Ideally this is carried out on a firm and level surface. The horse is turned sharply in both directions and backed up. Flexion tests of all four limbs and trotting in a circle on a firm surface are typically carried out, provided the examining veterinary surgeon considers that it is safe and appropriate to do so.
3. Examination at Exercise
The horse is exercised sufficiently to:
- Allow assessment of the horse when it has an increased breathing effort and an increased heart rate
- Allow assessment of the horses gait at walk, trot, canter and where appropriate, gallop
- Allow assessment of the horse for the purpose of stage 5
If ridden exercise is not undertaken this stage is typically conducted with the horse on the lunge which will be made clear on the certificate of examination.
4 . Rest and Re-Examination
The horse is allowed to stand quietly for a period. During this time, the respiratory and cardiovascular systems may be monitored as they return to their resting levels.
5 . Final Trot up
The animal is trotted again in hand to look for signs of strains or injuries made evident by the exercise and rest stages.
