Equine gastric ulcers are among the most common health conditions affecting horses, particularly those in training, competition, or intensive management. While treatment with medications such as omeprazole remains important, new research suggests there is much more to ulcer prevention and recovery than simply reducing stomach acid.

Modern horses live in conditions vastly different from those of their wild ancestors. While contemporary management practices are designed to support performance, convenience, and safety, they may also help explain why gastric ulcers have become one of the most common health problems in horses today.

Core strength training is often underused but should be included throughout a horse’s career to support a healthy back and aid recovery. While horses cannot train with weights, research shows simple, effective exercises can be done at home to strengthen core muscles.

There’s something irresistible about spending a bright, sunny day in the saddle, whether you’re training, competing, or simply exploring the trails. Yet beneath the pleasant atmosphere lies a very real challenge for horses: the combined impact of heat, humidity, dehydration, and fatigue. Horses produce enormous amounts of heat during exercise, up to sixty times more than at rest, and their ability to release that heat depends entirely on the environment around them. As riders, understanding this delicate balance is essential because even a fit, well‑trained horse can quickly become overwhelmed.