Infrared thermography (IRT) in-horses trained for endurances races

The aim of this study was evaluate the possibility of using the infrared thermography technique (IRT) to detect the work-related stress in 8 horses involved in training exercise (light, medium, strong) for endurance races Max temperature in left and right lacrimal caruncle by thermography and hearth rate were assessed before and after training with different intensity. Cortisol serum content was also determined on blood collected at training, Max temperature at lacrimal caruncle of left eye was significantly affected by intensity of training and time of measure while the other parameter were significantly influenced by the time of measure only. Max temperature in left and right lacrimal caruncle was positively and significantly correlated with the heart rate while positive but no significant relationship was found with the cortisol serum content.