It is my pleasure to introduce you to Dr. Mike Davis. Mike is a veterinarian and exercise physiologist, and is the Director of the Comparative Exercise Physiology Lab at Oklahoma State University.
Dr. Davis’ other projects into the study of strenuous exercise have included field studies at racetracks, training centers, and even the Alaskan backcountry where he studies sled dogs during the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race® and the Yukon Quest International Sled Dog Race®. Mike has been conducting research on sled dogs for over 10 years, using funds provided by the ACVIM Foundation, federal research agencies such as Department of Defense and National Institutes of Health, and in some cases, his own money. These studies have resulted in effective protocols for the prevention of exercise-induced gastric ulcers in racing sled dogs, greater understanding of the short-term and long-term effects of cold air on the lungs’ immune system (which can lead to an asthma-like syndrome in humans known as “ski asthma”), and improved methods of promoting fatigue resistance in soldiers.
These elite sled racing dogs are perfect examples of how the body can utilize glucose-independent processes which are supported during sustained strenuous exercise. Studying the dogs’ unique methods for alleviating or preventing oxidative damage can lead to discoveries that benefit humans as well.
“Sled dog research applies to athletes participating in ultra endurance events,” said Dr. Davis, noting that an Ironman would be considered the shortest event that would apply, “but more likely to people who simply perform significant amounts of prolonged strenuous exercise day after day, regardless of whether or not it is considered a sport.”
Mike has generously agreed to be our guest for “Ask a Musher” series, renamed “As a Vet” for him. He has worked with many of our favorite mushers including Martin, Karen, Aliy and Seb. Mike will check in on the forum for 2 weeks from January 19th to January 31st and answer our questions. Perfect timing before The Yukon Quest!! Feel free to not only ask about his research but any questions about sled dog races from a veterinarian’s perspective. I first met Mike at The Dockdog Nationals in 2008 when my dog Hank was presented with Outstanding Canine Volunteer for Chase Away K9 Cancer. Chase Away K9 Cancer Fund is administered by The American College of Veterinary Medicine Foundation of which Mike is the President. I have since tried really hard not to “stalk” him at Dockdog events and pester him with all my questions about sled dogs and sled dog racing.
Cindy, Libby and Hank
PS here is link to an article written in laymen’s terms about his research
http://outsideonline.com/bodywork/20100 ... rch-1.html
PS Thank you to the ACVIM for parts of the above text.