Analysis of the season-dependent component in the evaluation of morphological and biochemical blood parameters in Shetland ponies of both sexes during exercise

Abstract

Determination of morphological and biochemical blood indices facilitates assessment of the health and welfare of horses, their nutrient demand, the effects of training already undertaken, and the horses’ suitability for exercise. Identification of the season-dependent components and the effects of sex and exercise on changes in frequently referenced haematological and biochemical parameters was the main goal of the current study.

Keywords

• seasonal changes
• shetland ponies
• haematological parameters
• aminotransferases
• lactate dehydrogenase
• lactate-to-pyruvate ratio