Gastroscope Clinic - Thursday 26th February 2026
Are you worried your horse may be suffering from gastric ulcers?
Gastric ulcers are one of the most common conditions affecting horses, particularly those in regular work, competition, or experiencing changes in routine. Unfortunately, many horses suffer silently, with symptoms that can easily be mistaken for behavioural or training issues.
To help owners gain clarity and support early diagnosis, Starling Equine Vets are pleased to be hosting a Gastroscope Clinic on Thursday 26th February at our inpatient facility at Bologney Stables and Livery.
What are gastric ulcers?
Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) occurs when the lining of the stomach becomes damaged by stomach acid. This can lead to discomfort, pain, and reduced performance, and in some cases can significantly affect a horse’s wellbeing.
The only definitive way to diagnose gastric ulcers is via gastroscopy, a procedure that allows our vets to directly visualise the horse’s stomach using a specialised camera.
Signs to look out for
Gastric ulcers can present in many ways, and not all horses show obvious symptoms. Some of the most common signs include:
Reduced appetite or unexplained weight loss
Poor body condition
Sensitivity or pain when tightening the girth
Recurrent or mild colic episodes
Poor or inconsistent performance
Changes in behaviour
Reluctance to extend the stride
If your horse is showing one or more of these signs, gastroscopy may help identify whether ulcers are contributing to the problem.
About our Gastroscope Clinic
Our clinic on Thursday 26th February 2026 provides a convenient and cost-effective opportunity for owners to have their horse examined by our experienced veterinary team.
Clinic details:
Location: Starling Equine Vets’ inpatient facility at Bologney Stables and Livery
Procedure: Gastroscopy performed by our vets
Clinic price: £200, including sedation
Overnight stabling: Available at an additional cost if required
This clinic price represents a discounted rate compared with standard gastroscopy appointments.
What happens during gastroscopy?
Gastroscopy is a routine and well-tolerated procedure. Your horse will be lightly sedated, and a long flexible endoscope is passed gently through the nostril into the stomach. This allows us to assess the stomach lining for signs of ulceration and determine the type and severity present.
The procedure typically takes around 20 minutes, and in many cases owners are able to see images from the examination and discuss findings with the vet on the day.
Treatment and next steps
If gastric ulcers are identified, treatment options and associated costs will be discussed with you at your appointment. Treatment plans are tailored to the individual horse, our aim is always to support both short-term healing and long-term gastric health.
Booking information
Appointments for this clinic are limited and must be booked in advance.
To secure your place:
📞 Call: 01473 970393
📧 Email: office@starlingequinevets.co.uk
Please note that a £50 non-refundable deposit is required to secure your appointment due to limited availability.