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> 2.  There were some great suggestions on data that could be collected and
> the data.  Would anybody be willing to take the first cut at compiling a
> list of suggested studies?  Sue or Heidi?  Others?
This would be my Big Numero Uno suggested study:

1.  Identifying the long term effects of repeated bouts of dehydration.  We
already know with peer-reviewed data that the average endurance horse
finishes a ride around 5% dehydrated (and some up to 12%), and that cellular
function begins to be adversely affected around 3-4%.  Assuming no major
metabolic breakdowns, the target organ most likely to suffer permanent damge
is the kidney.  There are some blood parameters that are indicative of
kidney damage, but mostly just indicate some current level of dehydration,
or severe kidney disease---not early damage.  The best ways to measure true
kidney function are either by serial urine samples throughout the ride,
along with blood samples; or injecting a harmless substance into the body
and measuring over the next hour or two how fast the kidneys are able to
filter it out.  (Or you can do a kidney biopsy, but that's really high risk
and not worth even considering).

The former protocol of collecting urine is pretty easy, but involves A LOT
of rider cooperation, since horses don't always conveniently pee in a vet
check while a volunteer is waiting there.  So there's the rub---this is
incredibly valuable data, but what would it take for an endurance rider to
agree to do whatever it takes to collect several urine samples throughout a
ride?  Money?  A ride made up only of research participants as is the
Middleburg Research Ride (this would be my guess)?  Whatever it takes, IMO,
this
Susan G



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