Thermoregulation during Field Exercise in Horses Using Skin Temperature Monitoring

Area of Science:

• Equine physiology and thermoregulation
• Animal welfare science
• Sports science and veterinary medicine

Background:

• Hyperthermia and exertional heat illness (EHI) pose significant risks to exercising horses.
• Effective monitoring of thermoregulation is crucial for early detection of heat stress.
• Current methods often rely on non-invasive skin temperature (Tskin) assessment using infrared thermography (IRT).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the scientific evidence on surface skin temperature monitoring in horses during exercise.
• To discuss the methodologies, applications, and challenges of continuous Tskin monitoring.
• To highlight the limitations of Tskin monitoring alone in estimating core body temperature (Tcore) changes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies using infrared thermography (IRT) for Tskin monitoring during equine exercise.
• Analysis of methodologies, data interpretation, and practical applications.
• Discussion of challenges including inter-individual thermoregulatory differences.

Main Results:

• Continuous Tskin monitoring via IRT during exercise is not always a reliable indicator of Tcore changes.
• Inter-individual variations in thermoregulation require consideration for accurate assessment.
• IRT is a useful tool but should be combined with other clinical evaluations.

Conclusions:

• While Tskin monitoring is accessible, it requires careful interpretation alongside other clinical signs.
• Accurate assessment of equine thermoregulation during exercise needs to account for individual differences.
• Future advancements in wearable technology may offer improved methods for monitoring and intervention.