Here's why:
* Focus on Physical Health: Pre-purchase exams primarily focus on the horse's physical health, including musculoskeletal, respiratory, cardiovascular, and digestive systems.
* Neurological Examination: While neurological issues can be important, a full neurological examination is usually reserved for situations where there are specific concerns, like stumbling, head tilt, or other abnormal behavior.
* Specialized Testing: The menace reflex test is a specific test for assessing cranial nerve function, which is part of a more in-depth neurological examination. It wouldn't be standard practice unless there's a reason to suspect neurological involvement.
In summary:
* Standard pre-purchase exams are designed to assess the horse's overall physical health.
* The menace reflex test is a specialized neurological test and is usually only performed when there are specific concerns about the horse's neurological system.
It's important to remember that the scope of a pre-purchase exam can vary depending on the buyer's needs and the horse's intended use. If you have any concerns about a horse's neurological health, you should discuss it with your veterinarian and consider a more comprehensive examination.