Diagnosing eating related issues

Equine Gastroscopy

As you know, horses can have many issues related to eating, which is why our equine gastroscopy machines are crucial in our diagnostic processes. Gastroscopy is a valuable veterinary tool that uses a flexible video endoscope to examine the equine esophagus and stomach. This uncomplicated procedure is performed while the horse is under light sedation. Sedation is not needed to control pain, but to instead to control the "ticklish" feeling your horse may experience as the small (1 cm) endoscope is passed through their nose. A gastroscope is the only way to accurately diagnose the presence and severity of stomach ulcers in horses.  It can also be used to identify stomach impactions, parasites, tumors and other abnormalities that may be affecting your horse's GI tract.

Stomach ulcers are extremely common and are the second highest cause of poor performance after Lameness.  Do you have a grumpy gelding or a moody mare?  Behavioral issues are often a sign of gastric ulcers.  Gastric ulcers cause chronic pain which leads horses to perform poorly or have a poor attitude under saddle.  This is one of the main reasons we scope horses.  The difference we see in performance and attitude is quite remarkable.

Image of Equine Gastric Ulcers
Gastric Ulcers reported in horses  (AAEP)
25-50%
FOALS
60-90%
FOALS

Treating and Preventing Equine Ulcers

At Countryside, we do not believe in blindly treating horses for ulcers for several reasons. First, we do not want you to invest in an expensive treatment for a horse that does not even have ulcers. Secondly, we don't want to prolong any suffering for the horse. There are several different types and grades of equine ulcers that require different levels and lengths of treatment. We want the best result and outcome for you and your horse. Once your horse is diagnosed, medication and lifestyle changes will be necessary. We are here to guide you through this process, and we will recommend an exercise and feeding program for your horse.

Read more about the importance of diagnosing Ulcers in this recent article from Dr. Dan Carter, ‘Why it’s worth chasing the ulcer diagnosis.”

Did you know horses are designed to be grazers? Frequent intake of roughage aids stomach acids and reduces risk for ulcers.
From the Blog

News & Articles

As many of our clients know, we love sharing our knowledge and important animal health news. Our blog contains valuable educational resources in one easy location.

Sep 13

Decoding Equine Pain: How to Recognize the Signs

As Pain Awareness Month begins, it's crucial to spot subtle signs of discomfort in horses, often masked by their natural ability to hide pain. By closely monitoring behavior and recognizing equine facial expressions, owners can learn to spot pain.
More
Aug 8

Focus on Soundness: Strategies for Injury-Free Horses

Expert Insights from Our Veterinarians. Plus, simple yet effective tactics to prevent injuries and maintain soundness.
More
Jun 29

Sweatless Summers: Unraveling the Mystery of Anhidrosis in Horses!

Identify the telltale signs of anhidrosis in horses and the practical approaches that can make a difference...
More
Jun 28

Furry Freedom Fest: Tips for a Safe and Fun July 4th!

In preparation for the upcoming Independence Day, we dive into ways to ensure our dogs, cats, and horses have a safe Furr-ocious 4th of July!
More
Jun 4

Trending Topic: Help, my horse has hives!

Uncover the mysterious world of equine hives and discover what's really behind those itchy, raised bumps. From unexpected culprits to playing detective to find the trigger, this blog post reveals the secrets to ...
More
Jun 1

From Racing to Re-homing: Client Stories of Triumph

Derby week has come and gone, but these inspiring stories of success and triumph from some of our off-the-track Thoroughbreds are timeless.
More
Feb 27

The "Non-Steriod" Future of Arthritis Treatment

From training to competition, repetitive movements and trauma can lead to inflammation of the joint. There is a new, non-steroid, biotechnology treatment available.
More
Feb 1

Signs your horse may be dealing with a muscle disorder

Has your horse’s performance declined? Has he or she lost muscle across its top-line? Are you exerting a lot of effort to get and keep your horse going? This Post delves into muscle disorders.
More
Jan 6

All About Hoof Health

The foundation of a horse’s health is a strong, healthy hoof. Read on for insightful tips and proactive planning to ensure your horse has happy feet all year round.
More
13 Sep

Decoding Equine Pain: How to Recognize the Signs

As Pain Awareness Month begins, it's crucial to spot subtle signs of discomfort in horses, often masked by their natural ability to hide pain. By closely monitoring behavior and recognizing equine facial expressions, owners can learn to spot pain.
More
8 Aug

Focus on Soundness: Strategies for Injury-Free Horses

Expert Insights from Our Veterinarians. Plus, simple yet effective tactics to prevent injuries and maintain soundness.
More
29 Jun

Sweatless Summers: Unraveling the Mystery of Anhidrosis in Horses!

Identify the telltale signs of anhidrosis in horses and the practical approaches that can make a difference...
More
28 Jun

Furry Freedom Fest: Tips for a Safe and Fun July 4th!

In preparation for the upcoming Independence Day, we dive into ways to ensure our dogs, cats, and horses have a safe Furr-ocious 4th of July!
More
4 Jun

Trending Topic: Help, my horse has hives!

Uncover the mysterious world of equine hives and discover what's really behind those itchy, raised bumps. From unexpected culprits to playing detective to find the trigger, this blog post reveals the secrets to ...
More
1 Jun

From Racing to Re-homing: Client Stories of Triumph

Derby week has come and gone, but these inspiring stories of success and triumph from some of our off-the-track Thoroughbreds are timeless.
More
1 Mar

The "Non-Steriod" Future of Arthritis Treatment

From training to competition, repetitive movements and trauma can lead to inflammation of the joint. There is a new, non-steroid, biotechnology treatment available.
More
1 Feb

Signs your horse may be dealing with a muscle disorder

Has your horse’s performance declined? Has he or she lost muscle across its top-line? Are you exerting a lot of effort to get and keep your horse going? This Post delves into muscle disorders.
More