Bridgett called me a few minutes ago to say she was driving over to get me. She’d just gotten a call that a dropped dog had arrived from Unalakleet who was “released” and ready for pick up. We got to the dog compound and who do we see…
It’s Beemer! His report noted that he had no injuries or medical problems, and that Allen dropped him only because he was starting to lose some weight. Although Beemer had been eating very well, it’s hard for yearlings to “keep up” on calories. Their metabolisms — like most juvenile animals — just burn energy too fast. So, Beemer made it all the way to the coast on his debut Iditarod, running 862 miles of tough trail in difficult conditions. This is a huge accomplishment for any dog, but it is simply extraordinary for a yearling… Way to go Beemer!
We hugged the stuffing out of him and told him many, many, many times what a good boy he is! He is obviously very tired and was quite happy to sleep on my lap as we drove back. He is now relaxing in luxury, occupying a kennel in Bridgett’s heated entryway. He will get all the food he can eat, frequent walks to work out the kinks plus more hugs and kisses than he’s ever imagined.
Beemer didn’t quite make it to Nome, but he sure gave it a heck of a run. We can all look for great things from this lad in the future! (Note: For what it’s worth, it seems to me that the smart money locks up this young superstar’s sponsorship right away!)
