TDK conference 2024

Findings: Greyhound muscles contain a higher proportion (80%-100%) of fast-twitch type IIa fibers, relying more on anaerobic metabolism compared to other breeds, which primarily use aerobic type I fibers. Most dog breeds cannot exceed their VO2max while running. These characteristics allow greyhounds to achieve exceptional speeds, such as running 100 meters in 5.33 seconds (67 km/h).

Objectives: 1) Compare pre- and post-exercise hematological, biochemical, and blood gas parameters in all dogs, examining changes based on size, age, and weight. 2) Correlate these changes with running performance, identifying clinical or laboratory parameters that best reflect performance.

Materials and Methods: We examined 35 dogs, with 27 producing evaluable results (9 males, 18 females). They ran an average of 400 meters. Average height at the withers was 68 cm, body weight was 28.59 kg. Samples were collected in Jászberény, Zsámbék, and Csorvás. Blood was drawn before running, 5 minutes after, and between 40 minutes and 1 hour post-exercise. Clinical data (heart rate, respiration, temperature) were recorded at each time point. Routine hematological parameters were measured using the ADVIA 2120, blood gas and electrolytes with an ABL80-Flex analyzer, and biochemical parameters with a Beckman Coulter 460.

Results: Significant changes were seen in hematological parameters at the three time points, except for eosinophil granulocyte and platelet counts. Hematocrit (Ht) values showed a marked increase: 54% before running, 71% after 5 minutes, and 53% after 40-60 minutes. Among biochemical parameters, only lactate dehydrogenase remained unchanged. Acid-base deviations beyond normal ranges were observed in pH, HCO3-, base excess, and lactate values. Lactate levels were 1.03, 12.69, and 1.84 mmol/L at the same intervals. Potassium levels were the only blood gas parameter without changes. Ht and lactate changes correlated with performance.

Conclusion: Greyhound running induces significant changes in blood parameters, though most remain within normal ranges, except for Ht and lactate, which may indicate performance.