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July 26, 2013 by

This is the last week of the Summer 2013 Canine Warrior test protocol. Through 90 degree temperatures, drenching rains, monster mosquitoes, troublesome porcupines and a wild fire evacuation, our team of 16 SP canines and 4 SP humans have walked increasingly longer treks on trails near Two Rivers. This is week 7, so the test groups will complete 14 miles each day for 5 days.

During this exercise regime, groups of dogs have ingested different amounts of protein. Blood sampling at the beginning and end of this week will provide data to determine the effects of protein levels on canine hydration during exercise. Results will help to improve the stamina of military bomb sniffing dogs in the Middle East.


Dingle, Tug, Lester, Beemer and Nelson trek through Iron Creek. Note the GPS collars

Scooter, Spicy, Spoog, Jezzy and Ryne begin a trek.

Just a reminder:
Here are the 16 SP dogs who are taking part in the Canine Warrior testing this summer: Chemo, Waylon, Viper, Honda, Rambler, Nelson, Lester, Tug, Dingle, Beemer, Spicy, Spoog, Scooter, Willie, Outlaw and Boris.





Dr. Mike and Amanda transport dogs back to waiting dog trucks.

Dr. Mike Davis, from Oklahoma State University, and his support staff, Christa and Shannon arrived on Sunday to set up the blood testing lab and to help transport dogs to and from the trails. They join Ryne, Amanda, Kristina and Aliy, the dog walkers!


Despite sometimes challenging conditions, both dogs and walkers have enjoyed being free to wander in Interior Alaska hills and forests this summer. As you can see from the photos, they are all smiling, dogs and people. I think they may be sad when it’s all over.


Nelson, the canine collector.

P.S. Nelson gets the prize for collecting the most “stuff” (mud flaps, old clothing, critters, bones) in the 7 week period. Boris gets the prize for having had the most porcupine encounters. A dubious achievement (with no lasting scars).

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9 Responses

  • Adorable!!! Thanks so much for this report!

    Your description of the "Mighty Sixteen" and their 7-week course in outdoor living was perfect!

    What a rich experience for your perhaps most intellectually curious dogs (JMO).

    –Margaret

  • Very nice summer (in spite the evacuation). You guys and the dogs are just CHAMPIONS!!!

  • I loved the 3rd picture down – something common for folks in Alaska. If it's OK can you share what kind of pistol is most common?

    I am a big fan of SP Kennel and appreciate so much all that you share on your blog.

    Barbara

  • Oh, Boris, you have an inquiring soul, don't you! Hopefully, you are done with inquiring about the porcupines! I know they are cute, but they do NOT want to play.

    Frances (Boris's sponsor)

  • Aahhh so you do have porcupines…
    How many did he get?
    Not enuf to need a vet?
    You remove them yourself, eh.
    I've had whole litters who were free running circle & try to kill a porcupine. Not fun. Not worth the run:(
    How do you call them off???!!!
    Of course some dogs respond more than others:)

  • Don't worry about Boris. He didn't miss a beat. He had quills mostly in his face and neck that Ryne and Amanda managed to pull out. He was even reasonably accommodating during the procedure. We hope he has learned a lesson.

  • What a wonderful report. Thanks kennel mom. Nelson looks very proud of his collecting prowess. The dogs and humans must be sad the test is coming to an end. Am glad Boris is okay.

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