Although the 2016 Iditarod doesn’t start until March 5th, organizers are already getting ramped up. According to their Facebook page, more than 70 competitors are already registered from places as distant as Norway, and they are looking for volunteers to help out with the race. You can get all the details at the official website.
They are also running a raffle (details pictured here) to help pay for the race. Only 4,000 tickets will be sold, each priced at $100. Four lucky winners will each receive a Dodge truck, while 16 more winners will each receive $1,000.
The Iditarod is one of my favorite dog-related annual events. I, of course, love seeing the beautiful dogs in action, but I’m also interested because I cannot imagine why anyone would want to put themselves through the incredible challenge, battling solitude, weather, and distance.
Some day, I want to go to the race and observe or even volunteer, but I’ll be home wrapped up in a blanket watching it this year.
Until next time,
Good day, and good dog!
Margery – Thanks for responding. While there have been canine deaths nearly every year the Iditarod has been run, I don’t know that they come out of cruelty. These dogs were made for this kind of work, and the race is meant to honor their history. There are numerous vet checks along the route and dogs are routinely pulled from teams if there is any kind of a problem. I think the Iditarod tries very hard to promote healthy dogs, but you’re right, there are times when they fall short of the mark. When compared to, say, dog fighting, it pales in comparison. I have never been to Alaska to see the race, but from the pictures I have seen, the dogs are loving every minute of it, even though it is grueling. Again, thanks for your comment. Maybe we will see some discussion from other readers on this important issue.
The Iditarod is terribly cruel to dogs. FACTS: http://helpsleddogs.org