Purchasing a horse in Ireland for export requires a vetting process that bridges the distance between the seller’s yard and your home stable. At Grange Equine Veterinary Ireland, we provide the objective, high-fidelity data that international buyers, agents, and home veterinarians require to make informed decisions.
Our protocols are designed to meet the rigor of the ShowJumper circuit and the Eventing market, and thoroughbred sales worldwide, offering transparency through technology.
Digital Radiography: Tailored Imaging Protocols
We utilize high-resolution Digital Radiography (DR) to deliver images with superior trabecular detail. Recognizing that every purchase has different requirements, we offer tiered radiographic protocols to suit the horse’s intended use and insurance tier.
Option 1: The Standard Export Set
Designed for general riding horses or to meet standard insurance requirements. This protocol covers the essential weight-bearing structures and common sites of concern. Views: Typically 36–40 images.
Coverage: Feet (Navicular/P3), Fetlocks, Hocks, and Stifles.
Option 2: The Performance / Extensive Set
Designed for high-performance Sport Horses, Hunters, and resale prospects. This comprehensive 60+ view series minimizes "grey areas" and provides a complete skeletal profile often required by US radiologist reviews. Views: 60+ images.
Extended Coverage: Includes all views from the Standard Set, plus:Axial Skeleton: Complete cervical spine (neck) and thoracolumbar (back) series to screen for impinging spinous processes ("Kissing Spines") or facet issues. Knees (Carpus): Full distinct views. Additional Angles: Skylines and obliques .
Digital Sharing: All studies are exported as high-quality DICOM files via a secure cloud link, allowing for peer-to-peer review by your veterinarian .
Clinical Technology & Physiological Profiling
We employ specific digital tools to objectify the clinical examination, creating a permanent record of the horse’s physiological status at the time of sale.
1. Ocular Exam: Panoptic Ophthalmoscopy
We utilize Panoptic Ophthalmoscopy for all ocular inspections.Wide-Field View: This technology provides a panoramic view of the fundus (retina and optic disc), significantly larger than standard scopes.
Clarity: It allows for the precise identification of cataracts, chorioretinal scarring, or optic nerve abnormalities.
2. Respiratory Screening: HD Video Endoscopy
Available as an optional add-on to any vetting protocol. To ensure the integrity of the upper airway, we offer High-Definition Video Endoscopy. Visual Evidence: We record a high-resolution video of the larynx and pharynx to screen for abnormalities such as laryngeal hemiplegia ("roaring") or entrapments.
Remote Review: This video file is shared directly via cloud link, allowing your home veterinarian to view the anatomy and grade the throat function personally.
3. Targeted Ultrasound (Available on Request)
Should clinical palpation or on client request, we are equipped to perform focused soft-tissue imaging and joint evaluation. High-Definition & Doppler: We utilize high-frequency probes with Color Flow Doppler to assess tendon structure and vascularity or joint status.
Note: This is typically an add-on service for specific areas of concern.
4. Cardiac Profiling: Digital Phonogram & ECG
We document cardiovascular health beyond simple auscultation. Digital Phonogram: We record the heart sounds digitally with synchronized ECG: These sounds are paired with a simultaneous Electrocardiogram trace.
The Output: You receive a detailed PDF report displaying the rhythm trace and audio visualizer, allowing your home veterinarian to hear and see exactly what we detected.
