During the Auction: Duties at the SaleFor maximum efficiency, be well-organized and stay focused on your objectives. 1. Inspect the horses.Physically inspect the horses on your first-look list. To avoid confusion, take notes and assign a grade on the corresponding catalogue page. Based upon the inspections, it is quite probable that you will further cull the list of potential purchases to a short list. Inspect your final candidates several times. Don't be afraid to go back for a second or third look. 2. Consider performing pre-purchase veterinary examinations.Depending upon the degree of interest in a horse on the short list, your budget, and the estimated sales price, you may wish to have a veterinarian perform a pre-purchase exam. Such an examination may include x-rays, an endoscopic exam and a physical exam. On occasion, a veterinary examination may be required by the sales company before a horse is accepted or offered for sale. The type of examination required can be found in the Conditions of Sale. If a consignor offers x-rays and/or other test results, such as endoscopic exams, for your review, be certain to inquire as to the age of the information, as the information only has value if it is truly recent. Remember, horses are not machines, their physical condition can change overnight. 3. Bid.It is easy to get caught up in the excitement and atmosphere at a sale. Do not permit yourself to get carried away when bidding. It is imperative that you follow your initial plan and stay within the identified budget. Bid only on horses on the short list, exercise control and stay within the pre-determined price limit for that horse. Remember, both title and risk pass at the fall of the hammer. The buyer becomes totally responsible for the horse and its actions at that moment. |