What is a vetting?: A full 5 stage pre-purchase examination (or vetting) involves a thorough examination of the horse at rest, including the heart, lungs, eyes, teeth, legs, skin and conformation. The horse is then examined in hand at walk or trot. Flexion tests are performed to check whether there is any stiffness or pain in the joints that might indicate a potential problem. The horse or pony is then ridden (or lunged if unbroken but well handled) to check its movement and breathing during hard exercise. After a period of rest, the horse is then trotted up again to ensure that the exercise has not led to any lameness. A blood sample is collected and stored – this can be analysed for traces of sedative and anti-inflammatories immediately or for up to six months after the date of the vetting, if required.