The purchase inspection: scope, procedure and costs at a glance

What is an AKU?

➡ Video tip: What is an AKU? - In this video, you'll find out what a purchase examination involves when buying a horse, which examination steps are important and what you need to pay particular attention to. Perfect to inform you about the most important aspects of an AKU!

An AKU, short for purchase examination, is a veterinary examination that is carried out before a horse is purchased. The aim of this examination is to accurately assess the horse's state of health and identify any potential health problems or restrictions. The AKU provides security for buyers and sellers and helps to avoid later conflicts by documenting the condition of the horse at the time of purchase.

Types of AKU

1. Minor general examination: During this basic examination, the horse is examined externally and its general condition is checked, e.g. heart and lung function, musculoskeletal system and coat. It does not include any imaging procedures and is therefore less expensive.
2. Major AKU: This more comprehensive examination also includes x-rays and other imaging procedures. A major AKU is particularly recommended for horses that are to be used in sport, as it can reveal more potential problems.

Why is an AKU important?

An AKU helps to reduce the risk of a bad purchase, as it can reveal health problems, such as lameness or bone damage, that are not recognizable at first glance. Especially for expensive horses or horses used for sport, it is an important investment in a long, healthy life for the animal.

Why do I need an examination when buying a horse?

The purchase examination (AKU) is a decisive factor when buying a horse, as it provides a comprehensive assessment of the horse's state of health and offers security to both the buyer and the seller. Here are the most important reasons for an AKU:

1. Health safety: Even if the horse appears healthy and capable, there may be health problems that are not visible or have not yet manifested themselves. An AKU reveals such clinical abnormalities before they can be exacerbated by stress or strain.
2. Clarity and transparency: Some sellers may not be aware of health problems or may conceal known issues. An AKU brings potential defects to light, allowing buyers to make an informed decision.
3. Cost minimization in a long-term comparison: Although an AKU costs a certain amount depending on its scope (small or large AKU), the investment can prevent high follow-up costs for the treatment of a sick horse, which could become significantly more expensive in retrospect.
4. Responsibility towards the horse: An AKU ensures that the horse is in good health and can cope with the demands that the buyer will place on it. This gives the horse the chance to be used appropriately and without pain.
5. Legal protection for buyer and seller: An AKU serves as proof that the horse was in a certain condition at the time of purchase. If there are any health problems that have already been documented during the general inspection, misunderstandings or legal conflicts can be avoided at a later date.

A general inspection is a highly recommended measure for every horse purchase, regardless of the price or intended use of the horse. It helps to avoid bad purchases and potential health problems for the horse and provides transparency and security for all parties involved.

Costs of the purchase examination: Small vs. large AKU

The costs of the purchase examination (AKU) can vary greatly and depend on the scope of the examination as well as the question of who bears the costs. Normally,it is the prospective buyer who arranges and pays for the general examination, as they also choose the vet. However, particularly in the case of auctions or high-priced sales, the seller can also commission the AKU - in this case it is referred to as a "sales examination".

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Clarification of the assumption of costs

The assumption of costs should always be clarified in advance. Sometimes it can be agreed that the prospective buyer will pay for the general inspection, but the seller will bear the costs in the event of certain negative findings, should the purchase not go ahead due to these findings. A transparent agreement on the assumption of costs minimizes misunderstandings and makes the purchase decision easier.

What is done during an AKU? 

➡ Video tip: What is done during an AKU? - In this video, you can find out what steps are involved in a general veterinary inspection and what particular attention is paid to. An important part of this is x-rays, which reveal potential health risks and ensure a safe purchase decision.

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Clinical examinations may not always detect damage to the equine musculoskeletal system. Factors that affect the validity of these tests are for example: 

• Excitement of the horse
• Fitting
• Drug administration
• Prior sparing or warm up
• Muscular training condition
• Ground conditions
• Change of feed
• Weather

These factors can affect the horse both negatively and positively. Lameness may not be seen because the horse shows imponier behavior. Or the horse may run with feeling because it has had its horseshoes removed shortly before or the ground is particularly stony or frozen. In very deep sand it is also difficult to judge the movement. Perhaps there was a new feed the day before, which affects the digestion. It becomes clear: A small AKU is always a snapshot. In order for it to be as meaningful as possible, factors such as those mentioned should be clarified beforehand.

Do I need a major purchase inspection?

A comprehensive purchase examination (AKU) with x-rays helps to identify potential health risks such as spavin, chips or changes in the hoof roll at an early stage. These findings can lead to lameness and pain under high stress and are possible exclusion criteria for some uses of the horse.

Additional x-rays of the back

Problems such as kissing spines (narrow or touching spinous processes of the spinal column) are not recorded in the standard large-scale general examination, as there is still a lack of reliable scientific knowledge for evaluating such X-ray images. Nevertheless, an additional X-ray examination of the back and cervical spine can be useful as an additional safeguard, even if not every radiologically conspicuous horse develops problems later on.

➡ Video tip: What is kissing spines? - In this video, you will learn what kissing spines are, how they develop and what symptoms can indicate them. It also explains how this back problem is diagnosed and what treatment options are available to help affected horses.

Blood test - additional safety

A blood test is also not included as standard in the major general examination, but can be useful. It not only helps to detect defects, but also reveals possible medication that could be used by some sellers for the trial, such as tranquilizers or painkillers. However, as the analysis in specialist laboratories can cost several hundred euros, the sample is often frozen for six months and only analyzed in the event of suspicion.

Recording of the AKU

Regardless of the type of AKU - every examination should be recorded in detail by the vet. A good vet works with a checklist and gives you the protocol at the end. He should also assess whether the horse is suitable for the intended purpose. A leisure horse that is mainly used in the field may well have less severe findings than a sport horse that is expected to deliver high performance.

Large or small AKU?

Whether a large or small AKU makes sense depends on the purpose of the horse. For horses involved in competitive sport, a major AKU is definitely recommended. X-rays are almost always advisable - even for leisure riders. High veterinary costs can always be incurred, but a thorough general examination reduces the risk of buying a horse with a health problem.

In older horses, which often show minor irregularities on x-rays, x-rays can be dispensed with. Breeding horses, on the other hand, should be examined from head to hoof, for example with endoscopies and ultrasound to check the internal organs. Buyers who ride as a hobby generally do not need these examinations.

If you are unsure, seek advice from your vet to help you make the best decision.

Is an AKU necessary for young horses and foals?

➡ Video tip: The path to your own foal - In this video, you will learn what is important when buying a foal or young horse. From important health checks and assessing development to aspects such as character and pedigree: here you'll find helpful tips on how to buy a young horse successfully and safely.

For foals and yearlings, the question of an AKU is somewhat different:

1. Restrictions on the examination
   Some typical AKU tests, such as the flexion test or lunging, cannot yet be carried out on foals and young horses. X-rays are also not very informative, as the bone structure is still developing and many abnormalities only become apparent later.
2. Nevertheless, it makes sense to have a health check carried out by a vet
   A general health check is also a good idea for foals and yearlings. This allows the vet to detect and assess any heart defects, infections or problems with eyes and breathing at an early stage.
3. AKU for young horses in light work
   If the young horse has already been put into light work, an AKU - ideally with x-rays - is advisable. Young horses in particular should not have any serious defects. X-rays also help to detect possible chips or other abnormalities in good time, which would have to be operated on later.

Is the veterinarian liable if the AKU was wrong?

If a significant defect is overlooked during the AKU and the horse is therefore sold as healthy, the vet can be held liable. In this case, claims for damages can be asserted. However, the vet is only liable for a dutiful and careful examination, not for absolute freedom from defects:

• Dutiful work: The veterinarian is liable if it can be proven that he acted negligently or carelessly and overlooked important findings.
• No complete protection against errors: Since horses cannot be 100% controlled, even experienced veterinarians can overlook certain problems, especially if the horse does not show any abnormalities on the day of the AKU.

If the vet has made a mistake, the buyer can cancel the purchase contract due to a material defect and sue either the vet or the seller. In this case, the seller is obliged to refund the purchase price and bear any costs.

8 tips for the AKU

A purchase examination (AKU) is an essential step when buying a horse. Even if the general examination incurs costs, high veterinary costs due to undiscovered illnesses can be significantly higher later on. At the end of the examination, the vet will discuss the findings with you - and if there are no exclusion findings, nothing stands in the way of a successful purchase and a long, healthy horse life.

1. Evaluate each X-ray individually
   If a serious defect is found that rules out the purchase, you can save yourself the cost of additional images.
2. Allow sufficient time
   A small general examination takes at least one hour, a large examination can take several hours.
3. Be at the AKU in person
   This is the only way to ensure that the AKU is carried out according to your expectations.
4. Choose the vet yourself
   If the seller insists on a particular vet, be careful. It makes sense to choose an independent vet.
5. Clarify the sales inspection
   A sales inspection is often commissioned by the seller. Clarify in advance whether it is a sales examination or an independent AKU.
6. Clarify the costs of the AKU in advance
   Vets may charge higher fees for the AKU for more expensive horses. Discuss the costs in advance.
7. Check existing AKU
   If the seller states that the horse has already been "tested", ask for the AKU protocol of the previous interested party.
8. Condition precedent in the purchase contract
   The purchase contract should contain a "condition precedent" that makes it effective only if the AKU is passed. Clearly define what "passed" means.

Purchase investigation: Summarized

A purchase examination (AKU) is an essential step for buyers and sellers to reliably assess the horse's state of health and avoid conflicts later on. The small AKU offers a basic, inexpensive assessment, while the large AKU includes more comprehensive tests such as x-rays and is particularly recommended for horses used for sport.

The AKU protects buyers from expensive follow-up treatment by revealing hidden health risks such as lameness or bone damage at an early stage. It is also useful for young horses, adapted to their development phase. A blood sample or additional x-rays (e.g. of the back) offer additional security if necessary.

In addition to health safety, the AKU also provides legal protection: documented findings and a comprehensive protocol can avoid misunderstandings and lead to a reversal in the event of defects. Buyers should therefore plan the AKU carefully, choose the vet themselves and insist on a protocol in case of uncertainty.

With the AKU, bad purchases can be avoided, health problems of the horse can be reduced and possible claims for damages can be clarified. A well-planned procedure and a thorough general inspection give both buyer and seller the necessary security for a good purchase decision and a healthy horse in the long term.

Purchase inspection (AKU): The most important questions and answers

What does a major purchase examination of a horse involve?

‍The major examination includes a comprehensive physical examination and x-rays (10-18 images, depending on the guidelines) to assess the condition of the musculoskeletal system. Optionally, ultrasound, endoscopy and a blood test can also be performed for additional safety.

How does a purchase inspection work?

‍The general examination begins with a thorough external examination and listening to the heart and lungs. This is followed by tests for mobility and freedom from lameness, such as the flexion test, pre-trotting and lunging. In the case of a major examination, X-rays are then taken to check internal structures such as bones and joints.

How many x-rays are taken during a purchase examination?

‍Asa rule, the major general examination comprises 10 to 18 x-rays. These include images of the legs, toes, hocks, knees and hoof rolls.

Who pays for the purchase inspection of the horse?

‍The assumption of costs for the general examination is a matter for negotiation. Normally, the buyer pays for the examination as he usually chooses the vet. However, under certain agreements, the seller can also cover the costs, e.g. if the results are negative.

How long does a purchase inspection of a horse take?

‍A small AKU takes about an hour, while a large AKU, which includes x-rays and possibly additional tests, can take several hours.

How expensive is a purchase inspection for a horse?

‍The cost of a small AKU is around 200 to 250 euros. The large AKU can cost up to 1,500 euros or more, depending on the examinations selected.

What does a small purchase examination of a horse involve?

‍The small AKU focuses on a physical assessment of the horse, including checking its general condition, heart, lungs and musculoskeletal system, but without imaging procedures such as X-rays.

How long does a major general examination of a horse take?

‍A large AKU can take several hours, depending on its scope, especially if X-rays and additional tests such as ultrasound are carried out.

What is included in an AKU for horses?

‍An AKU includes a physical examination, mobility tests and, depending on the scope, x-rays and other diagnostic tests. The general health examination documents the state of health and possible abnormalities that could affect the horse's area of use.

How much does an AKU cost for a horse?

‍The cost of the AKU varies depending on its scope: the small AKU costs up to 250 euros, while the large AKU with X-rays and optional tests can cost 1,000 to 1,500 euros or more.