Horse

Taking the Pulse
The first thing the vet will usually do is take the pulse by listening to the heart with a stethoscope. The pulse is taken over a full minute, so it is important you train your horse to stand still while this is being done. At every vetting the pulse must be under 64 beats per minute (bpm) or you will be eliminated.
It is a good idea to practice taking the pulse at home. Stethoscopes can be obtained quite cheaply.

Lumps and Bumps
The vet will then check your horse over for any ‘lumps and bumps’. If it has any recent injuries, you should note these down on your vet sheet before the vetting. At the start of the ride the vet is just making sure any current marks or injuries are noted, and that the horse is fit to start the ride. At the final vetting, he will be looking for any new marks, for example saddle sores, brushing marks, bruised mouth.
Again, make sure your horse is used to be handled all over before the ride, will allow you to check inside his mouth, and pick his feet up when asked.

When a Vet asked for the Trot Up
Finally you will be asked to trot away a certain distance, normally marked with a cone, and then trot back, to see if your horse is sound. When you trot up, make sure you give your horse plenty of lead rope. Run along side the horse, so you do not obstruct the vet’s view. At the turn stay on the outside of the horse, again so you do not obstruct the vet’s view.
You will need to practice trotting up at home. Make sure your horse will trot out smartly alongside you and does not trail behind you.

If the vet thinks the horse may be lame, he will ask you to trot up again, and if he is still not sure a third time, with one of the other vets watching again. If they cannot decide whether he is lame or not after three trot ups you will be given the benefit of the doubt.