All dogs that start the Iditarod, either Ceremonial or Restart must undergo a number of tests and checks before being deemed fit to start.
Our team hopefuls had their blood draw and EKG the other day. This evening every dog was thoroughly checked by kennel friend and sponsor Dr Tamara Rose.
She looked at every dog individually with a hands-on physical; checking ears, eyes and teeth, stretching out all their limbs to check their range of motion and see if there were any harness or booties rubs or chicken legs (where hair has come off the backs of legs – we use leggings to try to avoid this). She also verified their required vaccinations and signed-off the team as ready to race.
The dogs will go on one final run on Wednesday and the final selection will be made then. We’ll let you know the Ceremonial Run roster on Saturday and the full race roster on Sunday.
Always nice to hear how all the Teams must undergo such a rigerous health check before heading down the trail…..SO important to be in tip top shape when heading off on this long wilderness trek! After that Wednesday run make sure you bubble wrap them all to keep them perfectly safe and fit! Ah….if it were that easy, huh!
WOOF WOOF WOOF
Thanks ever so much for news of plans for team announcements for Saturday and Sunday. And Lydia looks adorable!!!
GO RED!!! GO BLACK!!!
Thanks for the information. I’m glad that everything is going well with the veterinarian exams. The beginning of the exciting adventure is only 4 days away! I can’t wait to see the team rosters! 🐕🐕🐕🐕
I hope you have two amazing teams of 17, all passing with flying colors, and excited about the adventure in front of them.
We’ll be watching. Don’t think for a minute that you’re alone out there.
We’ll be sending positive thoughts, vibes, prayers, and pride your way through the entire race, no matter what happens.
Go SPK!
<3 🙂 <3