Dogsey

The subsistence diet of people in Arctic regions has been associated with health benefits, which may be due in part to its high level of antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids. Concern over toxins such as mercury entering the diet prompted Scientists from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, US to conduct a study into the levels of mercury and antioxidants in sled dogs, investigating the impact of the local diet upon the health of the population.

The rationale put forward by the University team was that since the dogs typically have a diet similar to that of the Alaskan natives in the region – heavily reliant upon subsistence foods for parts of the year - and given similarities in key biochemical pathways, the researchers could use the dogs as a unique model for subsistence living.

The study involved 12 Alaskan huskies from four rural villages along the Yukon River, who had been given a diet of at least 90% local cooked salmon for the last two months; salmon comprising a major part of the diet during the summer. Twelve dogs at a reference kennels had received no fish or fish products but been given meat-based commercial dog food.

The study found fewer antioxidants in the village dogs' blood when their fur had higher mercury levels. In comparison, the kennel dogs had significantly higher levels of antioxidants. These results suggested that mercury can reduce antioxidant levels and may lead to dietary insufficiency. However, Kriya Dunlap, a member of the research team, said that antioxidant levels are only one “health index” and that the level of mercury found in the study was within the safe level, as advised by the US Environmental Protection Agency. She added that “the health benefits of eating salmon far exceed the risks”.

The scientists plan to continue to develop sled dogs as a research model for subsistence living.