Termografia como parâmetro de análise fisiológica de cavalos durante a competição de vaquejada

Abstract

Infrared thermography allows to detect thermoregulatory changes, being a useful tool to assist in the localization of the inflamed area or to identify subclinical atrophies. Thus, the objective was to evaluate the thermography and changes in the physiological parameters of horses at different times during the competition. Thirteen Quarter Horse horses of both sexes, aged between six and nine years old and live weight ranging from 525 ± 25 were used. The physiological parameters heart rate, respiratory rate and rectal temperature were evaluated at four moments (rest, before the race, post race and rest after race). In addition, thermographic images of the eye, ear, oral mucosa, anterior limb hoof bulb and hind limbs were captured. Temperature and relative humidity were monitored. The physiological variables and the horse's surface temperature increased after exercise and decreased after bathing, suggesting evidence of vasomotor mechanisms for horse thermal exchange. It was concluded that the infrared thermography allowed to accurately determine the horse's body surface temperature, being an alternative to precisely the impact of environmental factors and physical effort, supporting the decision and promoting animal health and welfare.