Agria launches Prevent the Pain campaign as ulcer claims highlight welfare concerns
Agria Pet Insurance has launched a new campaign aimed at raising awareness of Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) after its latest claims data revealed the condition accounts for more than 20% of all equine insurance claims.
The insurer says the figures demonstrate the significant impact gastric ulcers continue to have on horse welfare across Britain, with almost 30% of affected horses requiring further treatment after their initial claim.
Gastric ulcers remain a major welfare issue
Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome is one of the most common health conditions affecting horses and can lead to pain, changes in behaviour, poor performance and ongoing health issues if left untreated.
According to Agria’s claims data, a significant proportion of horses diagnosed with ulcers require continued veterinary care, suggesting that treatment can extend beyond an initial course of medication.
Vicki Wentworth, CEO of Agria UK, said improving awareness among horse owners is key to reducing the number of horses suffering with the condition.
“It is very apparent that far too many horses in Britain are suffering real pain and discomfort from ulcers, and that prescribed drugs may not always be the full solution.”
She added that the company will work alongside vets, farriers, physiotherapists and other equine professionals to help owners better understand ulcer prevention, treatment and long-term management.
Prevent the Pain campaign to support horse owners
Agria’s Prevent the Pain campaign will include:
- Educational resources for vets and equine professionals to share with horse owners.
- Practical advice on reducing the risk of gastric ulcers.
- Owner case studies highlighting successful diagnosis and treatment.
- Recognition of yards with management practices that minimise ulcer cases.
- Information exploring the links between ulcers and underlying health conditions.
The campaign also aims to encourage owners to recognise the early signs of gastric ulcers and seek veterinary advice before problems worsen.
Ulcers may indicate wider health issues
Agria shared the experience of one customer whose horse was initially diagnosed with squamous gastric ulcers before later investigations identified glandular ulcers linked to underlying orthopaedic pain.
The case highlights an important message promoted by the campaign: while ulcers require treatment, they can sometimes be a symptom of an underlying issue rather than the primary problem itself.
Agria vet Lars Mortensen said gastric ulcers are often caused by multiple factors and believes better education can help improve prevention as well as treatment outcomes.
Focus on prevention as well as treatment
While veterinary treatment remains essential for horses diagnosed with EGUS, Agria hopes its campaign will encourage owners to review management practices that may help reduce the risk of ulcers developing in the first place.
The insurer says improving understanding of feeding, turnout, exercise routines and recognising behavioural changes could all contribute to better long-term welfare for horses.
