A Randomized Cross-Over Study Comparing Cooling Methods for Exercise-Induced Hyperthermia in Working Dogs in...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Physiology

Background:

• Working dogs face a high risk of non-pyrogenic hyperthermia due to exertion or environmental heat.
• Effective cooling methods are crucial for preventing life-threatening heatstroke in dogs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of partial water immersion versus isopropyl alcohol application for cooling working dogs with heat stress.
• To evaluate the physiological impact of these cooling interventions on working dogs.

Main Methods:

• A cross-over study involving 12 working dogs experiencing post-exertional heat stress.
• Dogs underwent three intervention days: passive cooling, partial water immersion, and isopropyl alcohol application.
• Core body temperature and heart rate were monitored throughout the study.

Main Results:

• Both partial water immersion and isopropyl alcohol significantly cooled dogs compared to passive cooling.
• Partial water immersion demonstrated superior cooling efficiency compared to isopropyl alcohol.
• Isopropyl alcohol application led to a notable increase in heart rate, indicating potential stress.

Conclusions:

• Partial water immersion is a more effective and better-tolerated cooling method for working dogs post-exertion.
• Veterinarians and handlers should prioritize water immersion for managing heat stress in working dogs.