You have DONE it!

An enormous thanks and a hearty HOWL! This note is actually from Aliy…. not Lydia. But I howl at times too. And this is one of them.

YOU… the SP Kennel dedicated fans, supporters – and most of all best dog friends ever – have made Lydia’s journey possible. I personally want to thank each and every one of you so very much. It is touching what people can do when we love each other and our dogs. ❤️

When Moira left for New Zealand in April after the closing ceremonies at Iditarod, honestly, she was a little sad. She was going back to New Zealand without her best 4 legged buddy. She and Lydia had become the very best of friends this past season (not to mention for the 6+ years before that.) Moira hoped that Lydia would eventually make the long journey to become her “fur ever” friend, but she just wasn’t sure when and how it would financially happen. Moira and I had a heart to heart and I said, “Don’t keep that burden all on yourself. Share your struggle and let our SP Kennel family of friends help. They will want to help you and Lydia. They have been there for us thru thick and thin.” So today is very exciting! So… here we are! YOU did it!

As of today we have raised about $6,000 (US$). Much of that has been spent already on: vet appointments, prescription drugs, vaccinations, blood draws and ‘overnight’ lab testings, travel crate, airline tickets (three flights) and a large amount went to the Pet Travel consultant. They have been worth the fee. The consultant (as well as Michelle at NP Vet) has walked us through the many stages of what tests, vaccinations, and exams are needed and exactly when. All of this has been very time sensitive. Lydia needs to arrive at New Zealand quarantine exactly at the correct time according to her legal medical documents. Our Consultant even has a “back up” emergency plan for an alternate airline flight incase the preferred flight does not leave Fairbanks on time.

We have set aside the remainder of the money for the in country quarantine fees and New Zealand taxes. If we have any dollars left from the fundraiser (ha ha ha) Moira promises to buy Lydia approved biscuits from all of you. Actually… she promises to buy biscuits regardless!