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Athletic and Working Dog Newsletter

Published by Dr. Robert L. Gillette, DVM, MSE

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We will no longer offer subscriptions to the Newsletter.
  • I am thankful to the loyal subscribers over the years. I have enjoyed interacting with others that share the same interests as I. Unfortunately the demands of my day job have become so great that there is no extra time available to keep up with the Newsletter. The back issues will still be available.

    Back issues of the (Athletic and Working Dog Newsletter) can be purchased through our website store (Sports Medicine Veterinary Supplies)

    A Free Copy of the First Issue of

    The Athletic and Working Dog Newsletter

    Issue 1:1

    • Influences on Canine Performance
    • Temperature Regulation of the Dog
    • Sesmoids: Little Bones That Can Cause Big Problems


    Purchase Past Issues of The Athletic and Working Dog Newsletter at our web store Sports Medicine Veterinary Supplies for $8.00 USD per Issue.Past Issues that are available for purchase are listed in bold blue .

    • Article Summaries are listed below
    Issue 1:2
    • Nails: Long or Short
    • Managing Hyperthermia in the Athletic and Working Dog
    • The Psychological Aspects of Rehabilitation
    Issue 1:3
    • Impact Forces of the Carpus
    • Field Care of Hyperthermia
    • Canine Sports Psychology
    Issue 1:4
    • Carpal Wrapping
    • Sports Psychology: Inherent Drive
    • Lyme Disease Prevention
    • Readers Questions
      • Treating "Limber" or "Cold" Tail
      • Muscle Tear of the Back or Pinched Nerve
    Issue 1:5
    • Pharmaceuticals Currently Used for Lameness
    • Lameness Diagnosis in Performance Dogs
    Issue 1:6
    • Dog Food Selection
    • Nutritional Components: Sources of Energy
    Issue 2:1
    • Gait Comparison of the Horse and Dog
    • Variations in Metabolic Response to Activity Anticipation
    Issue 2:2
    • The Most Important Muscles of Performance
    • Athleticism and the Body's Defense Mechanisms
    Issue 2:3
    • Gait Analysis and Performance
    • Performance of the Canine Athlete
    Issue 2:4
    • Paw Pad Wound Management
    • An Introduction to Trigger Points in the Dog 
    Issue 2:5
    • Understanding and Analyzing Performance Drive of the Dog
    Issue 2:6
    • Field Emergency Care in Hunting Dogs or Dogs Working in the Field
    • Genetics and Performance
    Issue 3:1
    • Understanding the Greyhound Racing Gallop
    Issue 3:2
    • Exertional Rhabdomyolysis in the Athletic or Working Dog: Part I
    Issue 3:3
    • Optimizing the Scenting Ability of the Dog.
    Issue 3:4
    • Exertional Rhabdomyolysis in the Athletic or Working Dog: Part II
    Issue 3:5
    • Wound Management and Surgery of the Pinna of the Ear
    Issue 3:6
    • The Affect of Joint Movement Alterations on Dog Locomotion
    Issue 4:1
    • Managing Achilles Tendon Injuries
    Issue 4:2
    • Poison Management: A Brief Overview
    Issue 4:3
    • Managing Intestinal Parasites in the Athletic and Working Dog
    Issue 4:4
    • Achievement of Peak Performance Using the Tapering Method
      • Craig Angle
    Issue 4:5
    • Overtraining Syndrome
      • Craig Angle
    • How to Prevent Overreaching and Overtraining in Athletes
      • Craig Angle
    Issue 4:6
    • Hypothyroidism in the Athletic or Working Dog
    Issue 5:1
    • Soundness of the Athletic Dog


    Issue 5:2

    • Shoulder Problems of the Canine Athlete and Working Dog
    Issue 5:3
    • Diagnosing Stifle Problems Through Palpation: Part I
    Issue 5:4
    • Managing Skin Lesions of the Distal Limb
    Issue 5:5
    • Managing Exercise Induced Medical Cases
    • Basic Concepts of Canine Rehabilitation
    Issue 5:6
    • Feeding for Optimal Performance
    Issue 6:1
    • Enhancing the Jumping Ability of the Dog
    Issue 6:2
    • Vital Signs of Athletic Dogs
    Issue 6:3
    • Minimizing the Affects of Exercise on the Kidney
    Issue 6:4
    • The Affects of Exercise on Respiration and Scent in the Athletic and Working Dog
    Issue 6:5
    • Diagnosing Stifle Problems Through Palpation: Part II
    Issue 6:6
    • Neuronal Factors of Canine Movement and Performance
    Issue 7:1
    • The Canine Workout Companion
    Issue 7:2
    • Rear Leg Lameness: Two Similar Case Reports 
      • Megan Simpson & Robert Gillette

    Copies of Issues 1:2 - 7:2 can now be purchased at our web store Sports Medicine Veterinary Supplies for $8.00 USD per Issue.


     

    Article Summaries

    1. 
    Title
    Athleticism and the Body's Defense Mechanisms

    Keywords
    dog system immune body metabolic 

    Summary
    Healthy, conditioned dogs are much more healthier than sedate dogs.  An active dog's system is better prepared to handle increased metabolic demands than the sedate dog.  The body system of an unconditioned dog is stressed at a lower level of demand than an active dog.  There are two scenarios where the immune system of the active dog will be depressed.  Depression of the immune system can be related to overall body condition. 

    Issue 
    2:2 

    2.
    Title
    Exertional Rhabdomyolysis in the Athletic or Working Dog: Part I

    Keywords
    dog muscle condition rhabdomyolysis run activity exertional horse 

    Summary
    Healthy, conditioned dogs are much more healthier than sedate dogs.  The body system of an unconditioned dog is stressed at a lower level of demand than an active dog.  An active dog's system is better prepared to handle increased metabolic demands than the sedate dog.  There are two scenarios where the immune system of the active dog will be depressed.  Some elite human marathoners seem to show a depressed immune system.

    It usually occurs in the best dogs or the hardest driving dogs.  Depression of the immune system can be related to overall body condition. 

    It is commonly seen in dogs participating in activities of high level.  Determine what type and level of activity the dog will participate in prior to allowing the dog to participate.  Brake the dog of chasing unwanted game.  Avoid placing the dog in a poorly ventilated environment.  Hyperacute Exertional Rhabdomyolysis

    Train the dog to come when called.  Minimize the factors of stress for highly excitable dogs.

    Issue 
    3:2

    2.
    Title
    Exertional Rhabdomyolysis in the Athletic or Working Dog: Part II

    Keywords
    dog muscle condition rhabdomyolysis run activity exertional horse 

    Summary
    Healthy, conditioned dogs are much more healthier than sedate dogs.  The body system of an unconditioned dog is stressed at a lower level of demand than an active dog.  An active dog's system is better prepared to handle increased metabolic demands than the sedate dog.  There are two scenarios where the immune system of the active dog will be depressed.  Some elite human marathoners seem to show a depressed immune system.

    It usually occurs in the best dogs or the hardest driving dogs.  Depression of the immune system can be related to overall body condition. 

    It is commonly seen in dogs participating in activities of high level.  Determine what type and level of activity the dog will participate in prior to allowing the dog to participate.  Brake the dog of chasing unwanted game.  Avoid placing the dog in a poorly ventilated environment.  Hyperacute Exertional Rhabdomyolysis

    Train the dog to come when called.  Minimize the factors of stress for highly excitable dogs.

    Issue 
    3:4

    3.
    Title
    Lyme Disease Prevention

    Keywords
    tick lyme disease dog vaccine 

    Summary
    Lyme disease is becoming more prevalent in the working and athletic population.  The dog is exposed to it through a tick bite from ticks of the Ixodes species (Deer Ticks).  One product that has shown to work against ticks is the PrevenTic Tick Collar.  The tick titers monitor the presence of antibodies to the various tick titers.  Lyme disease management should include tick collars (when possible), the topical tick products, the Lyme vaccine, and twice-a-year health check ups.

    Issue 
    1:4
     

    4.
    Title
    Managing Exercise-Induced Medical Cases

    Keywords
    dog activity problem exercise body 

    Summary
    In general, exercise and activity are healthy for the dog.  In any dog there can be times when an activity stresses the dog’s metabolic processes to extremes.  Hypoglycemic dogs will have blood glucose values less than 50 mg/dl.  Typical causes of hypoglycemia include over-working underconditioned dogs or allowing overanxious young dogs to be overworked.  The dog should be stabilized according to the clinical signs the dog is exhibiting.  The clinical issue is not exhibited when the dog isn’t exercising.  Set up a time where the dog can perform the specific activity. 

    Issue 
    5:5

    5.
    Title
    Managing Hyperthermia in the Athletic and Working Dog 

    Keywords
    dog energy work condition body 

    Summary
    A properly conditioned dog has a better chance of high performance than an unconditioned dog.  For groups that have multiple dogs the ideal situation is to have dogs training at various environmental conditions.  Conditioning/Training Programs
    The body needs energy to maintain homeostasis, and additional energy during physical activity. Nutrition program design
    For example sled dog diets are estimated around 44% protein, 50% fat, 6% carbohydrates.  This works for sled dogs but may not be good for other dogs for medical reasons. 

    Issue 
    1:2

    6.
    Title
    Managing Intestinal Parasites in the Athletic and Working Dog

    Keywords
    dog parasite intestinal worm larva 

    Summary
    Although the dogs do not show any traditional clinical signs, parasites can affect the dog’s performance.  Common intestinal parasites
    Adult dogs usually display significant immunity. 
    Tapeworms have minimal affect on the dog, but can be a sign of other parasites.  Hookworms
    Hookworms affect dogs of all ages.  Treatment Regimens for Canine Intestinal Parasites
    In the pet dog this level of parasite management might be sufficient. 
    Athletic and working dog modification
    All athletic and working dogs should be on a monthly worming program. 

    Issue 
    4:3

    7.
    Title
    Minimizing the Affects of Exercise on the Kidney

    Keywords
    kidney body exercise blood dog 

    Summary
    Some activities can create significant physiological stresses on the body.  The kidney functions to excrete metabolic waste products.  External blows to the body in the area of the kidney can result renal damage. 

    External impacts can also traumatize the kidney.  The blood flow to the kidneys is altered to redirect blood to the working muscles.  Exercise itself changes the metabolic waste brought to the kidney.  Extreme exercise can result in muscle cell alterations.  There are many literary sources for treating kidney problems associated with exercise. 

    Issue 
    6:3

    8.
    Title
    Pharmaceuticals Currently Used for Canine Lameness

    Keywords
    dog drug effect product lameness 

    Summary
    In lameness caused by soft tissue, pain relievers or anti-inflammatory drugs are indicated. Aspirin (Acetylsalicylic acid, Ascriptin).  Side effects are primarily GI ulceration, vomiting, anorexia, melena, renal and bleeding disorders.  Phenylbutazone.  Naproxen is a cyclooxygenase inhibitor.  Piroxicam is used in humans for treatment of inflammatory bone and joint diseases.
    Ketoprofen.  GI side effects have been reported at therapeutic doses in dogs.
    Acetaminophen (Tylenol; paracetamol).  Ketorolac (Toradol).  Analgesia approximates that of opioids in humans without opioid side effects.  Ibuprofen is a cyclooxygenase inhibitor.  This drug is an anti-prostaglandin, which may also block prostaglandin inflammation. 
    Anti-inflammatory Immunomodulator

    Issue 
    1:5

    9.
    Title
    Temperature Regulation of the Dog

    Keywords
    temperature body dog increase work 

    Summary
    The dog must use other mechanisms to manage its body temperature. 
    Temperature Regulation
    The average body temperature of the dog is 101.5°.  Thermal receptors around the body report temperature variations to the Temperature Control Center. 
    Temperature Regulation Disorders
    Elevated Body Temperatures
    Increases in body temperature can have many causes.  This heat acts to increase the body temperature during exercise. 
    Heatstroke occurs when the dog’s body cannot handle or manage the increased metabolic temperature. 
    Clinically, the normal resting body temperatures for these dogs can be 99° - 100°. 
    Reported temperatures of normal healthy dogs during activity.

    Issue 
    1:1
     

    10.
    Title
    The Affects of Exercise on Scent and the Respiration in the Athletic and Working Dog

    Keywords
    dog respiratory air body dioxide 

    Summary
    The respiratory system includes the nose, mouth, pharynx, larynx, trachea, bronchial tree and lungs.  Air enters and exits through the nose.  To offset this state the respiratory system attempts to blow off carbon dioxide by increasing the respiratory rate.  The mental state of the dog can affect the respiratory system.  The dog’s body can be trained or conditioned to handle these affects.

    The dog has minimal sweating capabilities.  The dog’s response to an increase in temperature is by altering respiratory ventilation and dead space access.  A high respiratory rate can impede the dog’s ability to sniff. 

    Issue 
    6:4

    11.
    Title
    Vital Signs of Athletic Dogs

    Keywords
    dog work energy body rate 

    Summary
    The trained and conditioned canine athlete or working dog’s metabolism performs at a different level than the pet dog.  Some examples include dog pulls and dog long jumping. Examples of endurance dogs are the pointing breeds, foxhounds, and sled dogs. 
    Energy Factors
    Current Reported Vitals for Athletic and Working Dogs
    Normal recorded temperatures of working dogs are between 100° F – 108° F.  A dog’s heart rate usually increases with work.  Working heart rates range from 115 – 240.  This occurs in many types of working dogs. Body System Interaction

    Issue 
    6:2

    12.
    Title
    Carpal Wrapping

    Keywords
    wrap carpal impact force structure 

    Summary
    The metacarpus expands which spreads the forces of out reducing stress on the phalangeal structures of the toes.  An incorrect carpal wrap canlead to toe dislocations, toe fractures and metacarpal fractures.  The correct wrap provides carpal support but has minimal affect on the action of the paw 

    Issue 
    1:4
     

    13.
    Title
    Diagnosing Stifle Problems Through Palpation: Part I

    Keywords
    joint ligament rupture stifle tissue 

    Summary
    Stifle problems can be related to any of the structural tissues: muscle, ligament, tendon or bone.  Stifle Anatomy
    Structural Injuries
    The design of the canine stifle joint predisposes the anterior cruciate ligament to breakdown. 
    The basic structural tissues that are important in joint stability are the ligaments and the joint capsule.  The loss of structural function places altered stress upon other joint tissues.  If the tibia moves forward, the cruciate ligament is ruptured.  If the ligament is ruptured, again, the tibia moves abnormally forward. 

    Issue 
    5:3

    14.
    Title
    Diagnosing Stifle Problems Through Palpation: Part II

    Keywords
    stifle ligament injury joint problem 

    Summary
    Ligamentous Injury
    Posterior ligament problems usually do not create as great of a problem as injuries of the other three stifle ligaments.  A posterior cruciate problem will be identified by pain exhibited during stifle extension.  Avulsion of stifle ligaments can create a confusing diagnostic issue.  Meniscal injuries are most commonly associated with ligament injuries, ACL and medial collateral.  Bone
    The stifle is a very muscular joint.  Many injuries to these muscles and their tendons can present as stifle problems. 

    Issue 
    6:5

    15.
    Title
    Field Emergency Care in Hunting Dogs or Dogs Working in the Field

    Keywords
    if dog body field hypoglycemia 

    Summary
    Hypoglycemia is also known as exertional hypoglycemia, hunting dog hypoglycemia or sugar fits.  Field treatment of hypoglycemia involves infusing the body with glucose of some form.  The emergency field treatment involves stopping any exercise or work, cooling the patient if overheated, muscle massage.  Foreign body penetration is a very common problem seen in the field dog.  If the foreign body has entered the body it can usually be visualized.  If it is a wire cut, flush, medicate, and staple if needed.

    Issue 
    2:6

    16.
    Title
    Gait Comparison of the Horse and Dog

    Keywords
    dog leg phase force rear 

    Summary
    Horse-Dog Variation
    After the rear legs touchdown during rear leg support, the front leg touches down before the last rear leg takes off.  There are braking forces and propulsive forces.  Impact forces result in braking forces placed upon the body.  The stride sequence of the dog's gallop gait.  The rear support phase is followed by the rear flight phase as the dog propels itself forward.  The dog then impacts the surface with its front legs, which begins the front support phase, which is followed by the front flight phase. 

    Issue 
    2:1

    17.
    Title
    Lameness Diagnosis in Performance Dogs

    Keywords
    dog lameness palpate problem pain 

    Summary
    In the canine athlete and working dog any musculoskeletal abnormalities are accentuated.   Lameness
    Musculoskeletal lameness is usually caused by pain. 
    Palpation Basics
    Allow the dog to approach on its own.  Once the dog feels comfortable, begin to pet the dog and stand up for the examination.
    Then flex and extend each phalangeal joint.  Palpate the long bones and soft tissue structures of the foot and then move proximally to the carpus if palpating the front leg.  Radiographs and palpation can assess Bones.  While palpating the elbow one hand is placed on the carpus. 

    Issue 
    1:5

    18.
    Title
    Managing Achilles Tendon Injuries

    Keywords
    tendon suture screw injury figure 

    Summary
    Achilles tendon injuries are not rare in the athletic and working dogs.
    The tendon of the superficial digital flexor passes through the attachment site of the Achilles tendon and acts independently.
    Tendon Healing
    In summary, tendon healing, even when successful, does not result in normal tendon. 
    Tendon Surgery as described by Dr. Carmichael
    Using K-wires to transfix the tendon facilitates handling of the tendon ends. 

    Issue 
    4:1

    19.
    Title
    Managing Skin Lesions of the Distal Limb

    Keywords
    skin graft wind tissue place 

    Summary
    Stretching skin involves utilizing and manipulating surrounding skin to cover the deficit.  Skin clamps can be used to bring the skin edges together.  The wound is managed as an open wound and bandaged.  Potential procedures include strip grafts, mesh grafts and axial pattern flaps.  Assess the wound upon presentation, clean it and assess for viable skin tissue.  Sutures are also placed through the graft incisions to hold the inner graft tissue in place. 

    Issue 
    5:4

    20.
    Title
    Paw Pad Wound Management

    Keywords
    pad wind bandage suture dog 

    Summary
    Applying digital pressure to the bottom and sides of each pad will expose any pad problems (Figure 2).  Applying point pressure to each pad to assess possible pad problems.   The drain is placed under the pad.  The pad incision is then repaired and an absorbable bandage is placed over the pad.  Sutured pad tissue will actually heal faster than leaving the wound open.  Thrown Pads or Abrasions
    Bruised Pads
    Bruised pads occur after working a rocky surface.  Suturing pad lesions is the fastest way to heal pad lesions. 

    Issue 
    2:4

    21.
    Title
    Sesmoids: Little Bones that Can Cause Big Problems

    Keywords
    joint problem sesmoids digit paw 

    Summary
    Sesmoids are small bones that are located at the metacarpal/phalangeal joints in the front paws and the metatarsal/phalangeal joints of the back paws (Figure A2). 
    The sesmoids associated with Digit II are numbered 1 and 2. 
    Secondary problems associated with sesmoid injuries include: injuries to off leg, toes, metacarpals, carpus, shoulder, triceps strains, trigger points, vertebral muscle strains, psychological (drive) problems, and working problems. 
    To assess sesmoid problems the metacarpal/phalangeal joint or metatarsal/phalangeal joint is flexed. 

    Issue
    1:1 

    22.
    Title
    Shoulder Problems of the Canine Athlete and Working Dog

    Keywords
    muscle joint shoulder dog injury 

    Summary
    This joint is not like the phalangeal joints.  Joint strain is managed conservatively.
    Muscle Injuries
    Diagnosing muscle injuries of the shoulder can be challenging.  The palpation procedure can help to discern between the scapular muscles and the shoulder muscles.  The glenohumoral joint is flexed.  Pain elicited by these manipulations will identify muscles associated specifically with the shoulder joint.  This assesses the scapular muscle group.  Palpate each muscle individually.  This identifies which muscles are associated with the shoulder lameness.
    Level three muscle injuries may require surgical repair. 

    Issue
    5:2

    23.
    Title
    Soundness of the Athletic Dog

    Keywords
    dog problem musk force work 

    Summary
    A sound dog is defined as a dog with a healthy musculoskeletal system.  The problem is observed by the dog’s handler as the dog works or performs certain tasks.  By definition the dog is not lame. 
    The altered forces cause a secondary problem that alters the dog’s gait. 
    Athletic and working dogs are just as susceptible to these problems as the general dog population. 
    Many dogs, both sedate and active, have multiple MuSk issues. The front legs of the dog act to absorb the forces produced by the rear of the dog.  Movement Initiation

    Issue
    5:1 

    24.
    Title
    The Affect of Joint Movement Alterations on Dog Locomotion

    Keywords
    joint carpal tape restriction angular 

    Summary
    Of the appendicular joints, the carpal joint shows the greatest range of motion during the trot gait. 
    Results
    Angular displacement before carpal restriction
    ROM values in degrees for the joints before carpal taping. 
    Angular displacement after carpal restriction
    Angular displacement between joints on the taped and untaped sides of the body showed statistically significant asymmetries at the carpal and shoulder joints following unilateral carpal restriction (Figure 2). ROM values in degrees for the joints before carpal taping. 

    Issue
    3:6

    25.
    Title
    Understanding the Greyhound Racing Gallop

    Keywords
    time stride greyhound flight rear 

    Summary
    Gaits
    The Greyhound Racing Gallop 
    A stride sequence of the Greyhound racing gait. Movement Initiation 
    measurements are Stride Time, Support Time (Front, Rear, & Total), and Flight Time (Front, Rear, and Total). Divisions of the Greyhound Racing Stride. 
    Kinematic Time Measurements 
    The data shows that velocity is related to stride frequency, support time, front/rear support distance and time ratios, and rear flight time, and rear distance. A strong rear support phase is evident by rear flight time and distance. Faster Greyhounds have higher stride frequencies, longer rear flight times, and longer rear flight distances. 

    Issue
    3:1 

    26.
    Title
    Dog Food Selection

    Keywords
    dog food brand feed diet 

    Summary
    Dog Food Selection
    This refers to which brand of dog food are you feeding.  In the United States the three major dog food brands are Purina, Hills, and Iams/Eukanuba.  All three also have diets that are designed for the active dogs.   First, determine the energy needs of the dogs. Determine the prices, assess your management program, then determine the needs of your dogs.  For example, some dogs need to eat diets that are hypoallergenic.  All of the commercial dog foods are acceptable for feeding. 

    Issue
    1:6

    27.
    Title
    Feeding for Optimal Performance

    Keywords
    energy muscle dog source activity 

    Summary
    Metabolic Energy
    There are three basic energy sources utilized during work: Immediate Energy Stores, Glycolytic Energy Sources and Oxidative Energy Sources.  Sprint/strength activities utilize immediate energy sources while endurance activities mainly use oxidative energy sources.  The immediate energy source is ATP. The oxidative energy system can also utilize protein as an energy source.  Energy Utilization during Work and Exercise.  The immediate energy source is ATP. Sprint athletes utilize the immediate energy stores and the glycolytic energy system. 

    Issue
    5:6

    28.
    Title
    Nutritional Components: Sources of Energy

    Keywords
    protein dog energy source nutritional 

    Summary
    The major dog food companies have created dog food that can address all of the nutritional needs of the normal dog in one daily feeding.  Active dogs still need a different nutritional program than their inactive counterparts.  Protein Resources The protein supply should be digestible.  Vegetable proteins have a digestibility of 80-85%.  Protein digestibility is determined by the protein source, and the digestive tract of each dog. The protein sources in the major dog foods are made with good quality proteins.  Fat Resources Fats are an excellent energy source producing 8.5 Kcal/gram. 

    Issue
    1:6

    29.
    Title
    Achievement of Peak Performance Using the Tapering Method

    Keywords
    taper train performance athlete increase 

    Summary
    The reduction in training is known as “tapering”. Tapering is the period of training just before a major competition that induces peak performance. What is tapering? The Training Load Reduction of the training load during the tapering period can be described as a decrease in training intensity, training volume, and/or training frequency. Taper Duration The Type of Taper
    Tapering Research Finally maximum voluntary strength increased significantly with all three tapering methods. The goal of the taper is to optimize competition performance. 

    Issue
    4:4

    30.
    Title
    How to Prevent Overreaching and Overtraining in Athletes

    Keywords
    dog train rest overtrain athletic 

    Summary
    The cycle consists of the amount and type of training stress, competition stress, recovery, and rest a canine athlete receives. Rest and recovery are the main contributors to overreaching and overtraining because too little rest and recovery produces increased stress on the body. Canine athletes can develop an imbalance in the training, competition, recovery, and rest cycle. This cycle is important because it determines how much training stress, competition stress, recovery, and rest a dog receives. The dog will overreach and eventually suffer from overtraining syndrome. If training and more competitions persist, then the dog may develop overtraining syndrome.

    Issue
    4:5

    31.
    Title
    Overtraining Syndrome

    Keywords
    dog syndrome overtrain train symptom 

    Summary
    Overtraining syndrome is a common cause of decreased performance and illness in athletes. Symptoms of overtraining syndrome include muscle soreness, fatigue, decreased coordination, weight loss, and frequent illness. When dogs train too hard and do not complete rest intervals in their training, (i.e. tapering) they develop overtraining syndrome.  Just because a dog experiences a decrease in performance does not mean it has overtraining syndrome. Overtraining syndrome is preventable. Remember, if allowed, a dog has an internal drive that will push the dog past the dog’s physical limits. This will result in overtraining syndrome. 

    Issue
    4:5

    32.
    Title
    Tapering Variations Utilized in Canine Competition

    Keywords
    dog event work train program 

    Summary
    Tapering has shown positive results in human training programs designed for major competitions.  The dog’s training program should be assessed before implementing a tapering technique.  The handler and the dog would perform activities that require some basic commands.  In field dogs the same type of regimen can be applied.  Work with the dog on the weaknesses and manage as normal.  Minimize physical activity and encourage positive interaction.  The day prior to the event the dogs should be allowed to rest as best as possible. 

    Issue
    4:4

    33.
    Title
    Canine Sports Psychology: Inherent Drive

    Keywords
    dog work activity perform sample 

    Summary
    The answer became obvious after watching these dogs. The inherent drive to perform can be so strong that it affects the dog physically.  Certain breeds of dogs were bred specifically to perform selected tasks.  Some examples are the herding breeds, the retrieving breeds and the guard dogs.  This intensity also has an affect on the dog's metabolism. 

    When evaluating an athletic or working dog's health status, blood should be drawn at three separate times associated with their performance task.  The post-activity sample is taken after the dog has been put through a short workout or just as the dog finishes the event.  In summary, a dog's drive to perform is a very important component of performance.  Some dogs are so inherently driven that it is affects the physical status of the dog. 

    Issue
    1:3

    34.
    Title
    Enhancing the Jumping Ability of the Dog

    Keywords
    jump dog muscle problem strength 

    Summary
    There are many activities that the dog performs that require the dog to jump.  An article by Tokuriki (1979) discusses the biomechanics and muscle activity associated with the jumping action of the dog.  The jump action allows the dog to raise its body upwards.  If the height of the jump is below the lift height of the dog’s gallop its locomotion is minimally affected by the jump.  The paravertebral muscles are the most important muscles related to jumping.  It is important to understand the factors that influence the dog’s ability to jump when analyzing their jumping performance.  There are usually three types of jumps used by the dog: 1) a high jump, 2) a long jump and 3) hurdles.  Muscle strength and endurance are positive factors.  The rear legs then launch the dog upwards.  The structural components of the jump are the muscles, bones and joints.  Negative Jump Factors There are many factors that have a negative influence on a dog’s jumping performance.  The most common underlying problems affect the paravertebral muscles.  Trigger points are localized muscle spasms within a muscle.  Enhancing the jumping ability of the dog Long jump and hurdles depend on horizontal movement.  The high jump requires more body strength and proper jumping form. High Jump The high jump involves lifting the dog’s body up onto high surfaces or over high jumps.  Training the proper jumping form plays the greatest role in high jump performance.  Long Jump A strength/conditioning program can then be implemented to optimize the dog’s ability to jump.

    Issue
    6:1

    35.
    Title
    Gait Analysis and Performance

    Keywords
    gait analysis side dog movement 

    Summary
    The walk and trot are symmetrical gaits. In this type of gait the movements of the right side mirror the movements of the left side.   Lameness is defined as a variance from normal gait.  Gait analysis is a diagnostic tool that can be used to assess lameness.
    Subjective gait analysis is the most common diagnostic tool to assess lameness.  (Figure1)  Most gait abnormalities can be detected with subjective gait analysis.  Observing dog gaits.   Video analysis is used to assess the kinematic parameters of locomotion. 

    Issue
    2:3

    36.
    Title
    Genetics and Performance

    Keywords
    gene trait dog performance breed

    Summary
    In the pointing breeds some dogs run longer than other dogs.  The genes can work together to produce a certain trait. If the pair of genes has a dominant gene and a recessive gene the dominant trait will be demonstrated.  The female dog has two “X” genes and the male dog has one “X” gene and one “Y” gene.  genes of significance.  Sex-related traits are carried through the “X” gene.  Figure 2.  Figure 3.  Figure 4. 

    Issue
    2:6

    37.
    Title
    Influences on Canine Performance

    Keywords
    dog performance work information canine 

    Summary
    Our goals should be to optimize our dog’s performance and at the same time minimize any detrimental affects of the workout.  Each issue will contain a section with information devoted to the physiological aspects of performance, a section with information about the musculoskeletal system as it relates to the active dog, and a third section that includes various topics that include canine drive, event-related physical activity or miscellaneous information about athletic and working dogs.

    Issue
    1:1

    38.
    Title
    Nails: Long or Short 

    Keywords
    nail traction long paw dog 

    Summary
    One side thinks that the longer nail helps provide traction, much like cleats in the human.  The other side cites that the longer nails predispose the dogs to injuries of the toe. 
    Figure 1. Figure 2. 
    On soft surfaces the paw spreads out allowing the webbing to help provide traction.
    The negative side of long nails far outweighs any potential benefit.  The longer nail acts like a fulcrum, which increases detrimental forces placed upon the bone and ligamentous structures of the paw (Figure 3). Longer nails predispose the digits to fractures, dislocations and nail injuries. 
    Figure 3. 

    Issue
    1:2

    39.
    Title
    Neuronal Factors of Canine Movement and Performance

    Keywords
    movement body cns fatigue train 

    Summary
    Voluntary movements originate in the Central Nervous System (CNS).  A movement pattern is initiated in the CNS.  At that time a desired movement “set point” is established for that movement.  normal movement scenarios, these movements become second nature. 
    Training and Conditioning
    Movement patterns are represented in the brain of individuals when automated performances occur. If a structural fault develops or is incurred, body movement is altered.  Once a dog is injured the movement patterns change.  Neuronal Fatigue

    Issue
    6:6

    40.
    Title
    Optimizing the Scenting Ability of the Dog

    Keywords
    dog scent ability work body 

    Summary
    Many dogs utilize their scenting abilities in their work or competition.  Scenting dogs or detection dogs work in various settings.  The scenting factors include 1) scent production, 2) scent maintenance, 3) scent reception and 4) physiological abilities (Figure 2).  Factors That Impede Scenting Ability
    A dog's mental capacity can affect how it works.  A dog's health can have a detrimental affect on the dog's ability.  Optimizing Scenting ability
    The dog's metabolism will affect their ability to smell and work. 
    Nutrition and Scent
    Avoid under-training and over-training the working dog. 

    Issue
    3:3

    41.
    Title
    Performance of the Canine Athlete

    Keywords
    performance event athlete canine dog 

    Summary
    Relative performance compares the individual's performance relative to the competitor's performance. Skills can be defined as working skills and athletic competition. Working performances would, for example, include drug dogs, hunting dogs, and herding dogs. To judge performance you must determine what event is involved, the activities of this event, and the performance definitions of this particular event. The athlete is defined as an: (1) elite athlete, (2) amateur athlete, (3) professional athlete, and the (4) recreational athlete. Performance can be analyzed once we have set our performance expectations for the defined event. Performance is affected by internal factors and external factors. 

    Issue
    2:3

    42.
    Title
    The Most Important Muscles of Performance

    Keywords
    muscle body longissimus hamstring leg 

    Summary
    The other muscle groups that play a key role are the thigh muscles.  The Muscle of the Thigh
    The hamstrings are actually four different muscles.  Figure 1.  The muscles involved in forward propulsion.
    Back Leg Muscles. The Muscles of the Back
    There are the postural muscles and the muscles of action.  Muscles of the back.  The longissimus dorsi muscles lay below the Latissimus Dorsi muscles
    The muscles lose their rigidity.  Uphill running can help strengthen the longissimus muscles

    Issue
    2:2
     
     

    43.
    Title
    Understanding and Analyzing Performance Drive of the Dog

    Keywords
    dog drive reward perform problem 

    Summary
    Inherent Drive
    The dog is a carnivore.  Reward Drive
    An inherently driven dog will not necessarily perform better than a reward driven dog. 
    Some dogs respond better to food reward, other dogs respond better to play reward.  Some dogs prefer different objects.  Determine the source of the dog’s drive.  The three basic reasons for canine performance drive are inherit drive, reward drive, and fear drive.  Inherit drive is the internal drive of the dog to perform the actual task. 
    Issue
    2:5

    44.
    Title
    Variations in Metabolic Response to Activity Anticipation

    Keywords
    dog participate workout anticipation sample 

    Summary
    This results in a set of normal metabolic parameters and values specific for this group of dogs. 
    Labrador Retrievers who were trained to compete in retriever field trials participated in the study.  This sample was designated as the pre-workout sample (Pre).  The dogs knew they were about to perform because they had been driven out to the activity grounds and had witnessed other dogs participating in retrieving exercises.
    The blood values that significantly increased with anticipation were calcium and total bilirubin. 

    Issue
    2:1

    45.
    Title
    Poison Management: A Brief Overview

    Keywords
    dog if substance charcoal patient 

    Summary
    Medical management of poison cases in these dogs is the same as the pet dog. 
    Toxic exposures can be presented as dermal, ocular or oral. 
    Skin Decontamination
    Rinse the dog’s skin until the soap and the toxic substance is removed.  If the detection dog was working drugs it is important to monitor the dog’s mental state for at least 24 hours post exposure.
    Oral Ingestion
    Emesis
    Activated Charcoal
    Severe vomiting should be controlled before activated charcoal administration.  Toxin Dilution
    Cathartics
    Cathartics enhance the movement of substances through the gastrointestinal tract.  Decontamination Contraindications

    Issue
    4:2

    46.
    Title
    The Canine Workout Companion

    Keywords
    dog workout owner exercise distance 

    Summary
    This information indicates that having a canine workout companion benefits the human, the dog and the human-dog relationship.
    The exercise program will create a shift in the owner-dog relationship.  In most dog fight incidences, if one dog can be controlled (via the leash) it can minimize the injury occurrence between the two dogs.
    Some owners may find that their dog can handle distance increases greater than ¼ mile.  Pre-Workout Examination
    Then the dog’s age should be assessed.  The dog can make an excellent workout companion.  The exercise is good for the dog. 

    Issue
    7:1 

    47.
    Title
    Wound Management and Surgery of the Pinna of the Ear

    Keywords
    ear hematoma suture place cartilage 

    Summary
    The ear is divided into three parts: the external ear, the middle ear, and the inner ear. 
    Figure 1. 
    Anatomical descriptors of the pinna of the ear
    Aural Hematomas
    Figure 2. Blood supply of the pinna of the ear
    The ears were to be cleaned and massaged 3-4 times daily to help express hematoma contents.  A 1/4" penrose drain was inserted and sutured in place.  Avulsion Injuries
    The two skin surfaces are sutured together using simple interrupted sutures or a continuous pattern suture. 

    Issue
    3:5

    48.
    Title
    An Introduction to Trigger Points in the Dog

    Keywords
    trigger point dog problem muscle 

    Summary
    Myofascial trigger points are often overlooked and misunderstood in the dog.  Whether trigger points are a true muscle pathology is controversial.  In most of the pet dog population, trigger points are not a significant problem.  Trigger points weaken the muscle tissue.  All primary problems should be addressed first, before any trigger point therapy is provided.  Usually trigger points are a secondary problem, related to a primary musculoskeletal problem elsewhere.  Identifying a  trigger point can help diagnose a related problem.  There are many ways to treat trigger points. 

    Issue
    2:4

    49.
    Title
    Basic Concepts of Canine Rehabilitation

    Keywords
    tissue rehabilitation problem body phase 

    Summary
    The primary problem is defined as the tissue structure that is initially injured or affected.  The primary problem affects how the body moves and functions. The rehabilitation process then involves repairing the primary problem and correcting the associated secondary and tertiary problems.  Rehabilitation begins by focusing on the disrupted tissue and the surrounding tissue. Phase one of rehabilitation should allow tissue healing, minimize tissue instability and finally help to minimize body deconditioning.

    The second phase of rehabilitation will focus on limb reconditioning. 

    Issue
    5:5

    50.
    Title
    The Psychological Aspects of Rehabilitation

    Keywords
    rehabilitation dog handler time period 

    Summary
    Physical rehabilitation from an injury or lameness usually includes a period of rest.  This can be mentally depressing to the dog. For example, it can be in the form of some obedience commands during the bathroom leash walks.  Kindly supportive words spoken to them any time during the day will let them know that the handler is not mad or reprimanding them.  A proper rehabilitation program will take into account the mental aspects and confusion by the dog during the rehabilitation time period.

    Issue
    1:2
     

    General Information

    This Newsletter was devoted to those individuals that handle athletic or working dogs.  I have spent a good part of my life working with and taking care of performance dogs.  I consider what they do as a form of art.  Dogs running, jumping, working or moving in any way amazes me.  I am attracted to it just like any art or music lover is inspired by a picture or song.  Because of this passion I have been lucky to not only experience the thrill of working with these dogs, but also to interact with some of the great owners, trainers, and handlers of some of the greatest athletic and working dogs.   In this sense I would like to disseminate this information that I have accumulated over the years to others that could benefit from my successes, experiences, mistakes and even some of the failures.

    The newsletter will have information that applies to all active dogs and sections devoted to information that relates to specific interests.  There are some performance factors that apply to any dog and there are some factors that only apply to certain activities. 



    Distribution

    Back issues of the Newsletter will be E-mailed in a PDF file format that can be printed in a hard-copy format. 



    Subscriptions are no longer available.

    Back issues costs $8 per issue. 


    Back issues of the (Athletic and Working Dog Newsletter) can be purchased through our website store (Sports Medicine Veterinary Supplies)


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