BET PRO2 Test FAQ’s:


Q. Is it better to have a horse with Above Average Total Blood Volume as compared to Average Total Blood volume?

A. No, the data shows (as is commonly seen in other population studies) that horses with Average Total blood Volume will tend to perform just as well on average as those with Above Average Total Blood Volume.


Q. How does an individual’s Total Blood Volume relate to
information from its heart scan?

A. At present, the relationship between the cardio (heart scan) and vascular (TBV) components are unknown with regard to performance. It is known that (based on unpublished data) a significant drop in performance is seen in the bottom 12% of Thoroughbreds based solely on their resting stroke volume via heart scan. Future studies will determine how many of these individuals would also be in bottom 20% the PRO 2TEST eliminates.


Q. Should a horse with Below Average Total Blood Volume be
purchased?

A. Horses with Below Average Total Blood Volume that have good conformation (lower oxygen needs) can still be very competitive, particularly at sprint distances. However, based on both PRO 2TEST studies, their chances of competing in stakes and particularly graded stakes will be diminished.


Q. How old does my Thoroughbred need to be?

A. Assays are available for yearlings (at least 14 months), as well as for two-year-olds and racehorses.


Q. Is the testing safe?

A.Yes, the marker used to determine Total Blood Volume has been used in human and animal research for nearly 50 years. It is essentially cleared from the system within 48-72 hours and has an excellent track record for safety. Racing horses can be tested as the marker will not affect post race tests.


Q. If my horse has below average Total Blood Volume, is there anything that can be done to increase it?

A. Total Blood Volume is inherent to the individual and nothing beyond the normal increases associated with growth, age and training will permanently increase it relative to the individual's size.


Q. Once a horse is tested, is there any need to re-test it for example as a 2YO or older race horse?

A. No, any change in Total Blood Volume due to age, growth and training will only be relative in nature.


Q. How does the PRO 2TEST compare with the unscrupulous and/or illegal measures I am reading about to boost a horse's oxygen carrying capacity?

A. Measures to delay fatigue, increase the number of red blood cells and/or circulatory capacity are therapeutic in nature whereby an attempt is being made to treat a possible deficiency. The PRO 2TEST is diagnostic in nature and simply determines whether any deficiency in oxygen carrying capacity is likely to exist.


Q. How long does it take to test a horse?

A. Testing requires about 20 minutes per horse. However, since there is a 15 minute waiting period during the test, 5 to 6 horses can be tested at the same time actually shortening the test time per horse to just a few minutes.