Related Experiment Videos
Internet Survey of Participant Demographics and Risk Factors for Injury in Flyball Dogs
Christina Montalbano1, Lauri-Jo Gamble2, Katherine Walden2
1Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States.
Frontiers in Veterinary Science
|December 5, 2019
Summary
Younger dogs in flyball are more prone to injuries, particularly in their limbs and paws. Protective wrap use was also linked to a higher risk of injury in these canine athletes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Canine Sports Medicine
- Animal Biomechanics
Background:
- Injury risk in canine sprinting sports like greyhound racing and agility is documented.
- Flyball, a canine sprinting sport, lacks similar injury risk assessment.
- This study addresses the gap in understanding flyball-related canine injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of injuries in dogs participating in flyball.
- To identify risk factors associated with injuries in flyball dogs.
- To analyze patient-specific variables, equipment, and training practices related to flyball injuries.
Main Methods:
- Survey data from 375 flyball participants was collected and analyzed.
- Variables included patient specifics, equipment, training, and injury data.
- Univariate analysis and backwards nominal logistic regression were used to identify risk factors (p < 0.05).
Main Results:
- 39% of dogs sustained at least one injury, with 172 injuries reported.
- Limb injuries were most common (forelimbs 30.8%, hindlimbs 25.6%), with paws/nails frequently affected (19.2%).
- Younger age and carpal wrap use were significantly associated with increased injury risk (p < 0.01).
Conclusions:
- Younger dogs exhibit a higher risk of injury in flyball.
- Carpal wrap usage is positively associated with increased injury risk.
- Further investigation into wrap utilization and injury risk in flyball is warranted.