Buying a horse is a significant investment. A thorough health check and proper documentation review are essential before committing to purchase.
Please note: These guides do not constitute legal advice and any information provided should not be construed as legal advice or legal interpretation. We do not accept any liability for any loss caused by reliance on this guide.
Horse Passport – A Legal Requirement
Every horse must have a valid passport (identification document or “book”).
It is illegal to own a horse without one.
Basic identification documents (“white book”) are the minimum requirement.
Breed-specific horses (e.g. Irish Draught, Irish Sport Horse, Connemara Pony, Thoroughbreds registered with Weatherbys Ireland) should have appropriate studbook passports.
If a horse does not have a passport:
You will need to arrange one.
A microchip must be inserted by a veterinarian.
The horse will be excluded from the food chain.
Certain medications (such as phenylbutazone) can then be administered.
Be aware that newly issued passports may affect resale value depending on your intended future use.
Vaccinations
Check that all vaccinations are recorded in the passport with a veterinarian’s signature and stamp.
Tetanus
Tetanus is preventable but often fatal.
Confirm:
How many vaccinations have been given.
The date of the most recent vaccination.
The standard course includes:
Two injections 4–6 weeks apart.
A booster after one year.
Annual boosters thereafter (sometimes every six months for high-level competition).
Anti-tetanus serum (TAT) is short-term protection and not a substitute for vaccination.
Equine Influenza
Required for most competitions and racing.
Typically involves:
Two injections 4–6 weeks apart.
A third injection after 6 months.
Annual boosters (though competition bodies may vary).
Combined Influenza and Tetanus vaccines are commonly used.
Herpes Virus
Particularly important for pregnant mares.
Vaccinations are typically administered during the 5th, 7th and 9th months of pregnancy.
Strangles and Other Vaccinations
Ask about strangles vaccination and any other disease prevention measures.
Without a veterinary stamp and signature in the passport, vaccination records may not be valid for competition.
De-Worming
Ask:
How frequently the horse has been wormed.
Which products were used.
When the last treatment was administered.
Worming types should be rotated (e.g. Fenbendazole, Ivermectin).
If keeping the horse at livery, check the yard’s worming policy.
A dung sample can test for parasite load. Over approximately 200 eggs per gram usually indicates treatment is required.
Signs of parasite burden include:
Poor condition.
Dull coat.
Enlarged abdomen.
Seek veterinary advice if unsure.
Disease History
Ask about any previous illnesses or conditions that may affect suitability.
Common conditions to check for:
Sweet Itch
Allergic reaction to midge bites, often worse in summer. Look for hair loss at the mane and tail base.
Laminitis
Painful hoof condition, common in overweight ponies. Look for abnormal hoof growth and stiff movement.
Ringworm
Fungal infection with circular hair loss patches.
Strangles
Highly contagious throat infection. Check for swelling under the jaw and discharge.
COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease)
Respiratory condition. Be cautious if planning to stable on hay and straw.
Roarer/Whistler
Respiratory noise during fast exercise. A veterinary assessment is recommended.
Previous Surgery
Check for scars indicating colic or lameness surgery.
Sarcoids
Skin tumours, often found in groin areas.
Mud Rash or Rain Scald
Common in wintered horses, particularly those with white legs.
Teeth
Ask when the horse’s teeth were last rasped.
Sharp edges or “wolf teeth” can cause discomfort when ridden.
Older horses require particular attention.
Feet
Ask:
Is the horse shod?
When was it last shod or trimmed?
Examine hoof condition carefully. Poor feet can significantly affect long-term soundness.
The phrase “No hoof, no horse” remains true.
Age
Confirm the date of birth in the passport.
Under two years old: unbroken, requires specialist handling.
Three to four years: typical breaking-in age.
Over fifteen years: may require lighter workload.
Horses can live 25+ years.
An experienced horse person can estimate age by examining teeth.
Veterinary Examination
Ask if the horse has recently been vetted for purchase or insurance.
Review any veterinary certificate carefully.
A pre-purchase veterinary examination is strongly recommended, especially for competition horses.
Breeding Considerations
If male:
Confirm whether the horse is gelded.
Avoid purchasing a stallion unless fully prepared.
If female:
Confirm whether she may be in foal.
Consider risks of unknown breeding or twin pregnancies.
If buying for breeding, investigate bloodlines and breeding history.
Behaviour and Temperament
Ask:
Is the horse comfortable living in a group?
Is it prone to separation anxiety?
Has it shown aggression (kicking, biting)?
Observe the current living environment and consider how it will adapt to your intended setup.
Breed and Management Needs
Different breeds require different management.
Native breeds and cobs may cope well outdoors.
Thoroughbreds often require more shelter, feeding and rugging.
Consider mud susceptibility, winter care requirements and time commitment.
Final Advice
Before purchasing:
Ask detailed questions.
Seek expert advice.
Bring an experienced horse person.
Never rush the decision.
Buying a horse is a long-term responsibility requiring daily care and financial commitment. Careful preparation helps ensure a safe and successful purchase.
Contact Us
If you have any further questions or would like to chat, please reach out to our Customer Support team.