Peeling Back the Layers: Performance Horse Round Table Discussion

Why is your sport horse not performing at its best? In this insightful round table discussion, Dr. Mike Pownall and the veterinary team at McKee-Pownall break down the multi-layered causes of poor performance in equine athletes. From subtle lameness and dental pain to ulcers and metabolic disease, this episode explores the interconnected systems that influence your horse’s health and rideability.

Joined by Drs. Esther Millares, Natalie Sanza, and Katelyn McNicol—with lead vet assistant Karen Foell—this episode emphasizes the importance of early detection, diagnostic precision, and a collaborative care approach. Whether you’re a competitive rider, trainer, or passionate owner, this episode will change the way you think about what’s really going on when your horse feels “off.”

Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome to the EquiConnect Podcast

01:20 – Why poor performance isn't just lameness

03:00 – Most common causes of lameness in sport horses

05:20 – When it’s not the limbs: other sources of poor performance

07:00 – Dental health: the missing link in equine performance

09:15 – Signs of dental pain and behavioural clues

11:00 – How often should your horse’s teeth be checked?

12:30 – Bit-related injuries and overlooked oral discomfort

13:00 – Gastric ulcers: pain, behavior, and underperformance

15:00 – Why diagnosis matters before treatment

17:30 – Preventing ulcers through diet, stress reduction, and training plans

20:00 – Understanding metabolic disease: EMS and Cushing's

23:30 – Preventing laminitis and managing metabolic horses

25:00 – Myths that delay proper care

27:00 – Supplements, shoeing, and the importance of diagnostics

30:00 – New tools: regenerative therapies and smarter supplements

32:00 – The power of teamwork: vet, farrier, body worker, nutritionist

33:00 – Final thoughts and takeaways

Quotes

“Believing a stiff horse is just naughty is like blaming your car for being slow when the tires are flat.” – Dr. Esther​ Millares

“Dental pain can be constant and invisible—but it affects everything from eating to contact under saddle.” – Dr. Katelyn McNichol

“Gastric ulcers don’t just hurt—they change your horse’s entire mindset.” – Dr. Natalie ​Sanza

“Education and empathy—not judgment—are how we improve sport horse care.” – Dr. Esther​Millares

“Diagnosis isn’t just a step—it’s the foundation for treatment that works.” – Dr. Natalie​ Sanza

Key Takeaways & Resources

Diagnosing Poor Performance

• Poor performance is rarely caused by a single issue. Often, subtle lameness, gastric discomfort, dental problems, and metabolic disorders overlap.
• Know your horse’s “normal.” Behavioural changes are often the first clue.

Dental Health

• Subtle dental pain may show up as training resistance, chewing abnormalities, or changes in body condition.
• Annual dental exams are essential; some horses benefit from 6–9 month intervals.

Gastric Ulcers

• Ulcers cause both physical and behavioural symptoms and are common in sport horses.
• Gastroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosis and should guide tailored treatment plans.
• Management includes low-stress environments, frequent hay access, and limited high-intensity work.

Metabolic Conditions

• Equine Metabolic Syndrome (EMS) and Cushing’s Disease (PPID) can impact energy, recovery, and condition.
• Laminitis prevention starts with early diagnosis, diet changes, and consistent exercise.

Advanced Therapies

• Tools like stem cell therapy, PRP, and IRAP are extending equine careers and targeting healing.

Collaborative...