How to Care for Sled Dogs
Dog sledding is one of the most challenging sports in existence, requiring sledders and dogs to brave dangerous hazards such as freezing temperatures and harmful wildlife for days on end. However, dog sledding can be a rewarding experience for those who wish to test their limits of endurance and love working with dogs. If you're thinking about taking up dog sledding, learning how to properly care for sled dogs can drastically improve the health of the dogs and decrease the risk of injury and death while on the trail.
Instructions
-
-
1
Vaccinate. Take all your sled dogs to the veterinarian and make sure they have all the standard vaccinations up to date. Keeping sled dogs vaccinated can prevent them from catching life-threatening illnesses, such as the parvo virus or rabies.
-
2
Provide bedding. When sled dogs are in the kennel, provide them with clean and dry bedding to keep them healthy and establish trust, which is invaluable while on the sled trail. Use fresh straw in the sled dog's kennel and change it frequently.
-
-
3
Feed a good-quality diet. Sled dogs need a diet with plenty of fat and nutrients. While running on the trail, sled dogs use 8,000 to 10,000 calories per day, though sled dogs need nutrition all year to keep healthy. Buy high-quality dog food and supplement it with chicken fat or corn oil to keep the sled dogs energized.
-
4
Water consistently. When dogs are not sledding, provide them with a bucket of water. When the temperature drops below freezing, take away the buckets of water, water once a day and add water to their food. Dogs can eat snow on the trail, but you need to provide water regularly to prevent dogs from becoming dehydrated.
-
5
Use dependable sledding equipment. Break in equipment before going out on the trail, since new equipment can have unforeseen complications. Sledding equipment should be comfortable for the dogs and tested to make sure it doesn't break easily.
-
6
Use foot ointment. Applying anti-inflammatory ointment to the feet of sled dogs while on the trail can help with the pain of sore muscles.
-
7
Use dog booties. Place dog booties on the feet of sled dogs during a race to prevent injury and keep feet dry while running.
-
8
Avoid pushing dogs for speed. Pushing dogs for speed can cause burnout and injury, and possibly death. While on the trail or running a sled race, allow sled dogs to find a comfortable speed that doesn't strain them.
-
9
Leave injured and sick dogs at designed dog drops. If a dog becomes sick or injured during a sled race, avoid pushing the dog onward, as this can result in more serious injury and death. Leave the injured or sick dog at a designated dog drop with a chain and some food and water. You will most likely have to fill out a form at the dog drop.
-
1
References
Resources
- Photo Credit huskie dogs sledding image by Earl Robbins from Fotolia.com
