Before running the Iditarod, every dog must undergo thorough veterinarian checks, blood testing and have an electrocardiograph (ECG) to ensure they are fit and healthy to run 1,000 miles.
These are compulsory checks for all dogs that compete and the results of these tests are scrutinised by Iditarod vets; any dog that doesn’t meet strict requirements will not run the race. If you are interested in more information about this please check out the Iditarod website rules section.
On Wednesday we took 43 “possibles” to town for their blood draw and ECGs. Thanks to volunteer vet techs Sara, Sophie, Jenna and Jan for the care they took with our friends!
L-R: Nelson gets some reassurance from Sara as Sophie takes a blood sample; Ranger has his ECG from Jenna and Jan while Meghan gives him some love.
A thorough veterinarian check will take place for all of these dogs next week!
Thanks so much for these pictures and the news that 43 dogs are in the running (no pun intended) to take the 32 (16×2)spots available on the Red and Black teams of Sp Kennel!!!
Woof, woof, woof!!!
–Margaret
Oh 43 possibles…so waiting to see if I have guessed the 16 dogs for the RED Team! Not very many days to wait for the teams to be revealed. Thanks so much. It won't be long until the race starts. Go SPK.
It's got to be hard to reduce down to the 32 with so much talent to choose from! I'm sure you"ll pick a great combo for each Team! By this time next week us fans will know the Rosters….still can't believe we only have 7 more days!!! I'm soooooo excited! Better get my Armchair "sled" ready for some racing!
Can't wait to learn who will be selected to run with the Red and Black Teams!!! Best of luck to ALL.
thanks for informing of the requirements for dogs prior to running, was always curious to know what checks the dogs go thru prior to the run.