Equine Gastric Ulceration & Gastroscopy Clinic

We hold gastroscopy clinics at the Cross Equine Clinic on a fairly regular basis.

On a typical day we might have 8 cases and all but 1 have gastric ulceration of varying severity which are then put on a treatment regime.

We then follow up some of those cases in a subsequent clinic and will be able to see the healing of the ulcers.

So if you think you have a suspect case phone the clinic or one of the Vets to discuss the case and get a place booked.

Gastric ulcers are not confined to the racetrack

Whilst it is known that over 90% of racehorses in training have gastric ulcers, it's a less known fact that at least 60% of other performance horses are also affected by this underrated condition.  This can include show-jumpers, dressage horses, endurance horses, hunters and eventers.  Frequent transportation to shows is  also a contributory factor, as is stabling.  Also at risk are foals, and all horses and ponies post surgery.

Clinical signs

The symptoms of ulcers can impact significantly on a horse's performance however the vagueness of these symptoms mean they can easily be overlooked.  Poor appetite, weight loss, rough coat hair, sour attitude and mild to moderate colic, can all leave the most experienced owner and their Vet puzzled as to the cause.

A study in the US found that 63% of the performance horses examined had gastric ulcers, and in 77% of these their owners had reported poor performance.  Prior to the study, which included dressage horses, show-jumpers and hunters, many had been examined and treated for suspected musculoskeletal disorders which resulted in little or no improvement in performance.  The animals were reported as often resisting work, difficult to train, and many were suspected of having recurring back pain.

Diagnosis

The only definitive method of diagnosing ulcers is to perform a gastroscopy using a three metre long endoscope.  Ulcers are graded according to severity and, importantly it also gives the client/owner the opportunity to see the ulcers for themselves before treatment is recommended.

You are invited to attend our gastroscopy clinic with a horse you suspect may have ulcers.

It is important that you discuss a possible case with one of the Vets on 01291 650690 at the clinic on or email an enquiry to   cheptowvets@btinternet.com

There will be a maximum of 8 gastoscopies performed on the day , so reservations will be made on a first come first served basis.