Clear answers. Compassionate care. All at your property.
Gastric disease — including gastric ulceration — is extremely common in horses, yet the signs are often subtle and easily mistaken for training, behavioural or feed-related issues. The only reliable way to diagnose gastric ulcers is through gastroscopy, where a flexible camera allows direct visual examination of the stomach lining.
At Avon Ridge Equine Veterinary Services, this advanced diagnostic procedure can be performed on-farm, meaning your horse receives gold-standard assessment without the stress or risk of travelling to a clinic.
Why choose us?
Our mobile gastroscopy service is led by Dr Tania Sundra, who has:
• authored several peer-reviewed papers on equine gastric disease
• travelled around Australia teaching veterinarians how to safely and effectively perform gastroscopy
• many years of clinical experience diagnosing and treating gastric disease in a wide range of horses — from paddock companions to elite performance horses
This depth of clinical and research involvement allows for thoughtful interpretation of findings, paired with practical and achievable management recommendations.
What our Mobile Gastroscopy Service includes
When you book a gastroscopy with Avon Ridge Equine, you can expect:
• A careful review of your horse’s history, signs and risk factors
• Safe, calm sedation to keep your horse relaxed throughout the procedure
• A complete gastroscopic examination using portable hospital-grade equipment
• Immediate discussion of the findings and what they mean for your horse
• A clear, individualised treatment and management plan
• A written report for your records or referring veterinarian
Gastroscopy is usually performed after an overnight fast to ensure the stomach is empty and visibility is optimal.
Why gastroscopy matters
Because horses can develop different types and grades of gastric disease, correct diagnosis guides correct treatment. Gastroscopy allows assessment of:
• the squamous (upper) and glandular (lower) stomach
• the presence, severity and location of ulceration
• delays in gastric emptying
• other abnormalities that may explain pain, weight loss or performance changes
Once we can see the problem — treatment becomes far more targeted and effective.
Calm care — clear direction
Our goal is to ensure you finish the appointment with clarity and confidence, including:
✔ an accurate diagnosis
✔ a treatment plan that suits your horse and management environment
✔ guidance on feeding, management and stress reduction
✔ advice on monitoring progress and when (or if) re-scoping is recommended
Gastroscopy removes the guesswork — helping horses get comfortable again sooner.