engleski

Markers of oxidative stress in search and rescue dogs during fieldwork

Exercise can result in oxidative stress characterised by an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants what can have a negative influence on homeostasis. The aim of the study was to evaluate oxidative stress in Croatian Mountain Rescue Service dogs after a simulated field search exercise. Eighteen healthy dogs of different breeds, mean age 3.05 (±1.85) years were included in this study. Two blood samples were taken from the dogs, early morning before and immediately after the 6 hours fieldwork. The analysis consisted of determination of two serum indicators of oxidative stress - reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and biological antioxidant potential (BAP) - and two erythrocytes antioxidant enzymes- glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Significant decreases (p<0.05) in serum level of d-ROMs and erythrocyte activity of SOD were recorded after the fieldwork. A decreasing trend in BAP level and GPx activity was also observed post activity, but not statistically significant. Increases in SOD and GPx enzyme activity in erythrocytes corresponds with enhanced resistance to oxidative stress. Our study demonstrated decreases in SOD activity, which could indicate the reduction in enzymatic antioxidant activity. BAP represents total antioxidant potential, while dROMS measure pro- oxidant status, and can give an estimate on potential ROS production. In trained individuals, due to repetitive endurance training, oxidative stress markers remain unaltered. The conclusion of our study is that a proper moderate intensity, long duration exercise in search and rescue dogs could lead to conditioning and improvement on the canine organism to respond to oxidative stress.

exercise, search and rescue dogs, oxidative stress

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