An Internet survey of risk factors for injury in North American dogs competing in flyball.

Abstract

A survey was used to investigate injuries in dogs competing in flyball. Complete surveys were obtained from 272 respondents with 589 dogs. In the past year, 23.3% of dogs were injured, with 34.1% injured during their career to date. Common injury sites were paws/digits, back, shoulder, and iliopsoas muscle/groin. Injury in previous years, modified by weight:height ratio, was a significant risk factor for injury. Dogs > 2 y of age had increased risk of injury, as did dogs with best times < 4.0 s. Canadian dogs had increased risk of injury (30.7% injured) compared to United States dogs (20.1% injured). This relationship was modified by participation in other sports, which generally reduced risk of injury in Canadian dogs. Further investigation of risk factors should include differences in training and competition between the United States and Canada, as well as injury prevention strategies.