Off the track 2+ years, showing BN, schooling N. Big powerful jump on CC. What to look for specific to OTTBs.
Of my five former TBs, two came off the track. They both passed flexions, so I did not x-ray. Both had lots of time under saddle and one had done a three day. Both had periodic pain in their backs, which was the result of a bone spur in the hock.
I knew another OTTB who was a stunning dressage mover. He had bone fragments in his suspensory, but never showed any discomfort or lameness. If I were buying again, I’d pay for full x-rays. However, I think you have already done that with other prospects? Also pay attention to the SI area, as some horses develop issues from having the starting gate slammed on their rear.
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We never got past flexions on the other 2. I have high hopes for the two I’m looking at! Lol
Isn’t that depressing? Both of my horses with bone spurs passed flexions numerous times. Sometimes I wonder though, flexions don’t always tell the true story whether the horse passes or not.
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That’s what I did on my last PPE. Start with flexions. Doesn’t flex, no need to go further. If they were to flex ok, neck rads, then spine, then the lower extremities.
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I went to Holland with my trainer who was shopping for a horse. A number of horses sired by a particular stallion had bone chips. They did simple surgeries to remove the chips and it was no big deal. I guess they could do that with OTTBs, too.
