Lynn, we had a wonderful presentation on ulcers at
the AERC convention. Ulcers can be prevented, without drugs. You didn't say
anything about prevention. Only, "Why can't we use drugs?". I think AERC's stand
is, "Why would you need drugs to get through a
ride?". AERC's main concern is for the horse's welfare, not the
rider's ability to compete on a compromised horse.
By the way, at this particular presentation, we
were told that so far, it has been shown that endurance horses have the lowest
incidences of ulcers. Why? Because we try to keep them turned out as much
as possible and keep hay or grass in their bellies at all times. This is what
helps prevent the acid to begin with.
If a horse has ulcers, research has also shown that
6 weeks or so of turnout and hay pretty much clear it up. Ulcers are not
necessarily caused by exercise, but lack of a healthy lifestyle for a horse.
Like turnout, lots of hay or grazing and as little stress as possible.
However, I still don't understand how some babies
are born with ulcers but I am sure we will find out soon enough.
If I had a horse that had chronic ulcers, I
wouldn't do endurance anyway. If they are that stressed, won't eat and do
poorly, medication will only mask the problem, not solve it. Is that what we
want? I would certainly advocate the use of medication to alleviate any pain and
start the healing process, but not to be able to compete. Just because other
organizations say it is ok, doesn't make it so.
A medicated horse doesn't need to be doing
anything except getting better.
