How do I know if a horse is healthy?

It is important to know if a horse is healthy before making a purchase or taking ownership. In California, it is important to also be aware of the applicable equine laws and regulations. To start, you should always speak with the current owner about the horse’s medical history. Ask for veterinary records, including any recent exams and any medical treatments the horse has received. If the horse is under the age of five, the records should include any de-worming, vaccinations, and any other treatments. All of this information should be documented and easily accessed. If the horse is older than five, you may want to ask the current owner if they have had the horse fully evaluated by a veterinarian, which should include blood tests, sight/sound examinations, and other tests as needed. You should also physically evaluate the horse to make sure it appears healthy. You should observe the horse’s body conformation, look for any irregularities in the eyes, skin, gait, and coat of the horse. Make sure the horse is well-groomed, with bright eyes, clear skin, and no visible signs of disease. In California, you should also be aware of the equine liability laws, which provide some protection against the risks of owning a horse. The laws state that you can be held liable if a person is injured while participating in an equine activity, whether or not you have full knowledge of the horse’s health. By learning about the applicable equine laws, conducting a thorough investigation into the horse’s medical history, and performing a physical exam, you can get a good idea of whether a horse is healthy before taking ownership.

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How do I know if a horse is healthy?

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