Health challenges in long-distance dog sled racing: A systematic review of literature

Abstract

Long-distance dog sled races, e.g. Iditarod (Alaska) and Finnmarksløpet (Northern Norway), are extremely demanding sporting events that might expose mushers, handlers and a large number of organisers and volunteers to risks for their health. The purpose of this systematic literature review (PROSPERO registration n. CRD42017069136) was to identify and summarise all available scientific literature relative to health issues connected to participating in these races. Using a literature search strategy in line with PRISMA guidelines, 117 scientific studies, sought through databases (Google Scholar and PubMed, between 2nd and 9th May 2017) and scrutiny of reference lists, were screened. Studies published in English treating any health issues assessed during or after a long-distance dog sled race were included, with no restriction in relation to their study design or the characteristics of participants studied. The quality of the studies was assessed using a standardised checklist. Ten studies met the criteria for being included in a qualitative analysis. The data synthesis showed that participants underwent strenuous psychophysical load, with insufficient sleep/rest and inadequate energy intake. Findings on hydrations are mixed. The risk of incurring in life-threatening injuries or infections was low, although injuries and infections of minor severity were common. No alterations of blood markers were observed from before to after the races. These findings will help planning prevention and treatment strategies in long-distance dog sled races. However, more research is needed in this field in the future.

The Effect of Two Acute Bouts of Exercise on Oxidative Stress, Hematological, and Biochemical Parameters, and Rectal Temperature in Trained Canicross Dogs

“…The distance of canicross races ranges from relatively short “sprint” distances of approximately 5 km to longer competitive distances of 45 km or more ( 3 ). The canicross runners usually compete with their dogs over two consecutive days with identical courses on both days, while Greyhound races are usually held once per week ( 4 , 5 ) and the sled-dog races for up to 14 days to be completed ( 6 ). The canicross is the sport that can promote increased physical activity and encourage people to exercise with their dog to improve race times, competitive performance, health and fitness in both species ( 7 ).…”

“…Most dogs competing in canicross are owned by pet owners, with limited prior experience of training and preparing canine athletes. On the other side, most sled dogs, Greyhounds and military working dogs are under the influence of experienced canine athlete trainers, strict policies and protocols regarding veterinary checks prior to racing, and restrictions on acceptable race conditions ( 4 – 6 , 37 , 66 ). Furthermore, canicross races are not comparable to Greyhound and sled-dog races.…”

“…Furthermore, canicross races are not comparable to Greyhound and sled-dog races. While Greyhound races are characterized by the short distance, short duration, and single breed involvement, sled-dog racing is also breed specific (Samoyed, Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky) and covers very long distances ranging from 500 to 1,569 km in a continuous competition lasting for up to 14 days to be completed and takes place under extremely challenging environmental conditions (the temperature is below 0°C and the snow conditions) ( 6 ). Canicross sport is placed between these two extremes and introduces the added resistance of pulling against the human athlete, the two-day format of most races, and far more variable breed involvement.…”