Hi everyone,

I have finally started some intensive basic dressage training with my 6 yo wb gelding. Prior to this work, Lorenzo has had a rather cruisey life as a station horse out in the country but was recently bought back in to the city/stable life with me. It's been about 3 weeks since we started working together maybe 5 or 6 times a week of half hour sessions. We are working on straightness and frame - it's been hard work for both of us!!

A few days ago Lorenzo started exhibiting signs of mild colic. He is on and off his food, a bit lack luster, no stomach sounds and has colically eyes. He was laying down a lot initially but has not done this for over 24 hours.

The vet thinks he may be suffering from stomach ulcers. I've read a bit about it, and can see it can be caused by stabling and high stress/pressure such as dressage training.

I was wondering if anyone has had any experience with a horse like this? What did you do? How did you treat/manage it? Will I have to retire him to a less stressful discipline?

I've read that a suspected 40% of dressage trained horses can suffer from this ailment so I'm hoping I'm not alone!

Lorenzo is turned out during the day and stabled with hay at night. He does get a fair amount of grain in his feed because of his size which I've read can contribute to the ulcers.

Any info on your experiences would be greatly appreciated!