Some sled dogs race until they are in their twilight years and some dogs don’t. People always ask me how I know when to retire a dog. I’ll simply ask you to look at these pictures and you will understand. It’s not that Hoss wouldn’t lead another SP Kennel team to the Iditarod finish line – he’s been there 5 years in a row, it’s something else…
Tom first met Hoss five years ago on one of our North Slope Mushing Adventures. There was a bond. Both were reliable hard workers, but they had a mellow and sometimes carefree attitude. Tom and Hoss have been in coorrespondence ever since.
So, Tom and his wife, Cindy, stayed at the kennel this past weekend and Hoss followed them home to Pennsylvania. His biggest adjustment will be to their kitty, he has already mastered the couch. (And, yes… there were some tears at the airport.)
Thank you Hoss for your years of sled dog passion, you will be missed by the team.
Great post! You folks always take the best care of your dogs. Wish Hoss a happy retirement.
Happy retirement Hoss!
That is a nice article.
Hello ~ I enjoy your website and blog very much. Macgellan did a great job this past winter keeping us all updated on the latest. He has a fun way of conveying the information. Has he moved on and no longer in Alaska?
Thanks,
Barbara
Hoss is my favorite and I hope he is happy in his new home. I really admire these sled dogs. I have never before become attached to other peoples dogs. I think it is because they love their work so much and they always pull that sled as hard as they can. We could all do well to follow their example.
Happy retirement Hoss! I know he will have a good home and you will miss him! I wish him the best! BTW, how old is Hoss?
Hi there all, Cindy from PA here… Just a retirement update on our boy Hoss, he Loves KoKoKitty, they play and have a mutual respect. He has had some health issues, (don't we all), but under control. He is a wonderful addition to our clan, and he is the most loving and carefree of the bunch. He had surgery on his right shoulder, tendon was super tight, now on the mend and as eager to go for his walks as ever. We love him very much, and are ever so thankful to Aliy and Allen for allowing us to be his humans in his retirement. Hugs and woofs to all!! Cindy and Tom Eckhoff and Hoss.