Why is your sport horse not performing at its best? In this insightful round table discussion, Dr. Mike Pownall and the veterinary team at McKee-Pownall break down the multi-layered causes of poor performance in equine athletes. From subtle lameness and dental pain to ulcers and metabolic disease, this episode explores the interconnected systems that influence your horse’s health and rideability.

Joined by Drs. Esther Millares, Natalie Sanza, and Katelyn McNicol—with lead vet assistant Karen Foell—this episode emphasizes the importance of early detection, diagnostic precision, and a collaborative care approach. Whether you’re a competitive rider, trainer, or passionate owner, this episode will change the way you think about what’s really going on when your horse feels “off.”

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to the EquiConnect Podcast

01:20 – Why poor performance isn't just lameness

03:00 – Most common causes of lameness in sport horses

05:20 – When it’s not the limbs: other sources of poor performance

07:00 – Dental health: the missing link in equine performance

09:15 – Signs of dental pain and behavioural clues

11:00 – How often should your horse’s teeth be checked?

12:30 – Bit-related injuries and overlooked oral discomfort

13:00 – Gastric ulcers: pain, behavior, and underperformance

15:00 – Why diagnosis matters before treatment

17:30 – Preventing ulcers through diet, stress reduction, and training plans

20:00 – Understanding metabolic disease: EMS and Cushing's

23:30 – Preventing laminitis and managing metabolic horses

25:00 – Myths that delay proper care

27:00 – Supplements, shoeing, and the importance of diagnostics

30:00 – New tools: regenerative therapies and smarter supplements

32:00 – The power of teamwork: vet, farrier, body worker, nutritionist

33:00 – Final thoughts and takeaways

Quotes

“Believing a stiff horse is just naughty is like blaming your car for being slow when the tires are flat.” – Dr. Esther​ Millares

“Dental pain can be constant and invisible—but it affects everything from eating to contact under saddle.” – Dr. Katelyn McNichol

“Gastric ulcers don’t just hurt—they change your horse’s entire mindset.” – Dr. Natalie ​Sanza

“Education and empathy—not judgment—are how we improve sport horse care.” – Dr. Esther​Millares

“Diagnosis isn’t just a step—it’s the foundation for treatment that works.” – Dr. Natalie​ Sanza

Key Takeaways & Resources

Diagnosing Poor Performance

• Poor performance is rarely caused by a single issue. Often, subtle lameness, gastric discomfort, dental problems, and metabolic disorders overlap.
• Know your horse’s “normal.” Behavioural changes are often the first clue.

Dental Health

• Subtle dental pain may show up as training resistance, chewing abnormalities, or changes in body condition.
• Annual dental exams are essential; some horses benefit from 6–9 month intervals.

Gastric Ulcers

• Ulcers cause both physical and behavioural symptoms and are common in sport horses.
• Gastroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis and should guide tailored treatment plans.
• Management includes low-stress environments, frequent hay access, and limited high-intensity work.

Metabolic Conditions

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s Disease (PPID) can impact energy, recovery, and condition.
• Laminitis prevention starts with early diagnosis, diet changes, and consistent exercise.

Advanced Therapies

• Tools like stem cell therapy, PRP, and IRAP are extending equine careers and targeting healing.

Collaborative...

In this episode of the EquiConnect Podcast, Dr. Mike Pownall and co-host Karen Foell dive into the crucial topic of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) with veterinarians Dr. Rafael Gomez and Dr. Natalie Sanza. They explore the different types of ulcers, common causes, and cutting-edge treatment approaches. Listeners will gain valuable insights into diagnosing and managing this prevalent condition in horses, as well as key strategies for prevention. Plus, get an exclusive look at the upcoming Gastroscopy Open House Event—a must-attend opportunity for horse owners to see gastroscopy in action. Whether you're a competitive rider, trainer, or dedicated horse owner, this episode is packed with expert knowledge to help keep your horse healthy and happy.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] – Introduction to the EquiConnect Podcast and episode overview

[00:01:00] – Meet the experts: Dr. Rafael Gomez & Dr. Natalie Senza

[00:02:00] – What is Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS)?

[00:03:00] – The two types of gastric ulcers: Squamous vs. Glandular

[00:04:30] – Causes of equine ulcers: Feeding, stress, and more

[00:08:00] – How feeding schedules affect ulcer development

[00:09:30] – Stress and its impact on gastric health

[00:11:00] – Shocking statistics: How common are gastric ulcers?

[00:14:00] – Diagnosing ulcers: Why gastroscopy is the gold standard

[00:17:00] – Recognizing symptoms: Poor performance, weight loss, and more

[00:19:00] – The role of treatment: Omeprazole, GastroGard, and other medications

[00:25:00] – Preventing ulcers: The power of management & nutrition

[00:31:00] – Three pillars of ulcer prevention: Management, supplements, and medication

[00:34:00] – Post-treatment care: How to prevent relapse

[00:36:00] – Exciting event: Gastroscopy Open House on March 22nd

[00:40:00] – Final thoughts & key takeaways

Notable Quotes:

“More than half of the horse population suffers from ulcers—whether they’re in the wild or in competition.” – Dr. Rafael Gomez

“The only way to diagnose ulcers with certainty is through gastroscopy—there is no magic test from the outside.” – Dr. Natalie Sanza

“If we don’t change management after treatment, ulcers can return in as little as two days.” – Dr. Rafael Gomez

“Management is the best medicine. The right feeding schedule, turnout, and stress reduction are key.” – Dr. Natalie Sanza

Resources & Mentioned Topics:

📌 Gastroscopy Open House Event – March 22nd, 2025 at the Campbellville location

Learn more at http://www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at info@mpequine.com

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube

In this episode, we explore the potential impact of U.S. tariffs on Canadian veterinary goods. While tariffs are often expected to disrupt industries, the veterinary field may be more insulated than anticipated. We discuss how tariffs might (or might not) affect medication prices, service fees, and product availability for horse owners. Additionally, we dive into the challenges of sourcing equine medications in Canada—an issue that goes beyond tariffs. Dr. Mike Pownall sheds light on what equestrians can expect in the coming months.

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] Introduction to the Episode

[00:01:00] Overview of U.S. tariffs and their potential effects on veterinary products

[00:02:00] Will tariffs impact the cost of equine medications? (Prevequine, Prascend, Bute, Banamine)

[00:03:00] What products are currently affected? (Saddlery, blankets, and some supplements)

[00:04:00] Will service fees increase at McKee-Pownall?

[00:05:00] Broader economic concerns for horse owners (inflation, rising costs, consumer spending)

[00:06:00] The real challenge: Regulatory barriers to medication availability in Canada

[00:07:30] How drug shortages—not tariffs—pose the bigger threat to equine healthcare

[00:08:30] Medication shortages

[00:09:00] Closing remarks & where to find more information

Learn more at http://www.mckeepownall.ca

Contact us at info@mpequine.com

Connect with us on social:

Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/mckee-pownall-equine-services

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/McKeePownallEquineServices/

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mckeepownallvet/?hl=en

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj6fmvGm8DO6NHta0IOvs2A

This podcast is not a substitute for regular & emergency veterinary care. Our purpose is to inform & educate horse people not to diagnose & treat medical conditions without a valid a veterinary-client-patient relationships.

Mentioned in this episode:

Introductory Osteopathy Offer

 Is your horse not performing at its best? Maybe there's a behavior change or lameness you just can't pinpoint. Equine osteopathy could be the solution you're looking for and now is the perfect time to give it a try. McKee-Pownall is making equine osteopathy more accessible with an exclusive 15% discount on our introductory osteopathy package available when you purchase before March 31st, 2025. If you're a Wellness Plan member, you'll enjoy an additional 5% off, bringing even more savings to this essential care for your horse. Don't miss this chance to invest in your horse's health and performance. Book your equine osteopathy session today and give your horse the care it deserves.

Gastroscopy Promotion