Today we visited Denali National Park Kennels to take a look at the sled dogs used to patrol the park in the winter months.
It was a warm afternoon and preferring cooler conditions many of the dogs were having a siesta.
Like Rudolf, when the dogs are old enough, they try out for the sled team. Those that don’t make the cut are put up for adoption. To qualify for a sled dog, you have to live in a cool climate…I don’t think Bainbridge Island counts a cool climate.
When the dogs were brought out and attached to the fake sled, no more siesta.
And here comes the fake sled…
Here is the ranger that explained all the stuff to us. These sled dogs are selected for their strength, not speed. They are a reliable transportation in the park during the winter months when it becomes too cold to start an engine. They also make good bed companions when it gets really cold.
