Poster Presentation 24th International Conference of Racing Analysts and Veterinarians 2026

Exercise-Associated Sudden Death in Racing Greyhounds: Incidence and Post-Mortem Findings Across Australasia (130433)

Michelle Ledger 1 , Steven Karamatic 2
  1. Veterinary Services and Animal Welfare, Racing Queensland, Deagon, QLD, Australia
  2. Greyhound Racing Victoria, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Abstract:
Exercise-associated sudden death (EASD) in racing greyhounds is a rare but significant event, typically occurring during or immediately following high-intensity exercise. This retrospective study examines the incidence and pathological features of EASD across Australasia, based on race-day reports and post-mortem examinations conducted between 2015 and 2025. International literature estimates the incidence at approximately 1 in 10,000–20,000 race starts.

EASD was defined as any unexpected fatality occurring within one hour of strenuous exercise. The incidence rate per 1,000 race starts will be presented, alongside post-mortem findings categorised into four primary pathological groups:

  1. Exercise-Induced Acute Abdominal Haemorrhage (EIAAH):
    Marked by retroperitoneal haemorrhage, commonly resulting from unilateral iliopsoas muscle rupture (predominantly right sided), leading to hypovolaemic shock. Sub-lumbar haematomas and significant peritoneal blood accumulation were frequent findings.
  2. Identifiable Cardiovascular Abnormalities:
    Includes congenital or acquired cardiovascular lesions that may predispose greyhounds to EASD. These abnormalities were confirmed through gross or histological examination.
  3. Non-Specific Acute Cardiovascular Collapse:
    Cases without identifiable structural lesions showed widespread visceral congestion and haemoperitoneum. These findings suggest per acute cardiac failure or impaired venous return, although the underlying mechanisms remain unclear.
  4. Open or Non-Diagnostic Findings:
    Includes cases with null or non-specific post-mortem changes, where no definitive cause of death could be established.

Electrolyte analysis of post-mortem blood samples frequently revealed hyperkalaemia; however, interpretation was limited by haemolysis and delays in sample collection. The potential role of inherited hyper-fibrinolytic disorders and subclinical cardiac pathology warrants further investigation.

This study highlights the importance of timely, standardised post-mortem protocols and improved race-day monitoring. The findings provide a foundation for future research into predictive biomarkers and preventative strategies to reduce the risk of EASD in racing greyhounds.