CARE OF THE CANINE ATHLETE BY ALLAN BROWN
Some years ago Dr Chris Boemo, a respected greyhound veterinarian, wrote an interesting article about a subject close to every trainers heart—How To Enhance Performance And Win Races. Chris highlighted the fact that some dogs are better than others and will always be better athletically, but nevertheless, there are ways to maximise every dog’s performance and improve the bank balance. There is a lot to this topic, but in brief, here are some tips which just might make the difference, including the fact that when top performance is expected all systems involved in producing this result must be functioning at maximum levels. Dr. Boemo highlighted training regimes, muscle activity, minimising fatigue and optimising recovery as key points to success. He also referred to three vital aspects of muscle contraction including: Energy “Enzymes involved in chemical reactions associated with energy production and muscle contraction” Elimination of waste products from muscle cells. Dr. Boemo outlined other factors, including post race snacks and other supplements to aid recovery, replenish energy and the elimination of lactic acid as a waste product. Many people new to the greyhound world ask about the best methods of training and it is here Chris Boemo’s wisdom shines through. He stated that the days were long gone “when you could just walk a dog around the block twice a day and race it once a week and win races”. It is important to improve cardiovascular and muscle fitness and conditioning”. There is no doubt that most dogs benefit by free galloping on a regular basis. This natural form of activity strengthens all parts of the dog including muscle groups, joints and connective tissue and prepares the hound for what is required at the track. Walking and swimming have some specific benefits, including maintaining cardiovascular fitness as a result of free galloping, as it stimulates other systems important for energy production and waste elimination. EXPERTS AGREE Recognised authorities, both human and veterinarian agree wholeheartedly with Dr. Boemo. For example, Dr. John Kohnke, noted veterinary specialist says, “energy with the exception of water is the most important constituent in a greyhound’s diet. Energy is fuel for muscles, nerves and metabolic functions and, “without energy the greyhound will not perform”. Dr. Kohnke also says, “diet must be fortified with a large range of macro (large) and micro (small) nutrients to meet athletic demand and maintain body reserves, optimum metabolic function and racing soundness”. He also refers to losses of fluids and complementary electrolytes by the canine speedster, especially potassium and how replacement must take place. In this regard, the three electrolytes I recommend for replacement are (1) Betacel, The daily electrolyte of choice for racing greyhounds, (2) Beta-K, the slow release potassium booster tablet, specially formulated for greyhound use and (3) Recharge, the original ‘sports’ drink for greyhounds that rapidly replenishes electrolytes and fluids lost during exercise, transportation and stressful conditions. Dr. Kohnke’s statements are powerful endorsement for appropriate supplementation and are well supported in the human field. In his book, Optimum Muscle Recovery, Dr. Edmund R Bourke, covers the same ground as his veterinary counterparts with his four R theory. These are Restore Fluids and important minerals to recover from dehydration, Replenish glycogen, a primary fuel source of energy; Reduce muscle and immune system damage resulting from the physical stress of exercise and Rebuild muscle protein, which is important for maintenance of muscle structure and function.