Preventive veterinary care

Start with a pre-purchase examination

A thorough pre-purchase examination is the ideal opportunity to gain insight into the horse’s history, health and future prospects. At SMDC, we combine a thorough clinical examination with extensive imaging (X-ray, ultrasound and, if necessary, CT, MRI and scintigraphic examination). Our experienced inspection veterinarians carry out a complete assessment of the horse’s condition, including a written report, videos and digital image storage.

The complete picture

A fit sport horse is more than just endurance. We assess the horse as a whole: muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nervous system, respiratory system, heart, and metabolism. A balanced training program prevents overload and supports tissue adaptation. For example, tendons adapt slowly, bone relatively quickly, and muscles at an intermediate rate. To properly load these tissues, it is important to consider conformation and any structural deviations. Optimizing the hooves and shoeing can make a positive contribution to this process.

To prevent muscle damage, it is important to include a proper warm-up and cool-down in training. Additionally, attention should be paid to the point at which fatigue or lactic acid buildup occurs, by providing timely recovery periods during exercise. To monitor this more precisely, tests using a heart rate monitor and lactate measurements are performed. Recommendations on training, nutrition, and supplements are an integral part of our approach.

Certain within its own body

One of the most important, and often overlooked, factors is the nervous system. Good coordination means that the horse can perform a movement at the right moment, smoothly, and with the appropriate force and speed, while also being able to control, slow down, and stabilize its body.

A horse that moves correctly and understands how to use its body (knows what it is doing and can perform as expected) has a lower risk of injury compared to an uncoordinated horse, which is at significantly higher risk for tendon and ligament injuries. Coordination can be trained, but it is even more important to prevent damage to the nervous system. This includes protecting the brain and the spinal cord, which originates in the brain and extends through the entire vertebral canal.