Amy Wheaton — one of our fantastic “dog care” support people in Anchorage — just called to say that she had picked up Allen’s dropped dog. Sorry to say, it’s Heeler!
Heeler’s wrist has been acting up a bit lately, getting a little swollen during some training runs. Every time, though, it has quickly gone back to normal, so you couldn’t count him out. Not being absolutely 100% was why he didn’t make Aliy’s “A-Team” but Allen chose him for the “B-Team” for one important reason: He is a solid, experienced Iditarod dog who could be a strong, guiding influence to the youngsters on the team. Allen was skeptical from the start about Heeler making it all the way to Nome and said, “If I can get a couple of days out of the lad to show the kids how it works, that’ll be great!”
So, attaboy Heeler! You got them to Finger Lake and gave them a great start… Good dog!
Thanks Macgellan. It is great to have the extra info. I am glad that Aliy is doing so well and I was curious as to which dogs were dropped and why.
Great job you are doing.