Hypogammaglobulinemia in racing alaskan sled dogs

Abstract

Background: Serum immunoglobulin dynamics have not been studied in racing sled dogs, despite hypoglobulinemia having been reported during racing events. Hypothesis/Objectives: Hypoglobulinemia in racing sled dogs is associated with decreases in serum IgA, IgE, IgG, and IgM concentrations during prolonged exercise. Animals: One hundred and fifty-seven Alaskan sled dogs that successfully completed a 1,000 mile race. Methods: Serum was obtained from 118 sled dogs within 1 month before the race and within 12 hours after completing the race. Serum also was obtained after 4 months of rest from 51 dogs that successfully completed the race, including 12 previously sampled dogs. Serum total protein (..