Another dog has died for the Iditarod. 155 dogs have died to date. We know this through the media since the race first started, but no official count is made by race officials and yes, death issues are looked into.
New rules will drive dogs harder. Iditarod dogs have died in summer workouts as well as in the race. 155 dog deaths are 155 deaths too many. Can you imagine if the mushers died at this rate?
I am not opposed to mushing and even enjoy the thrill of skijoring. I am opposed to dogs having to die for a race.
The Iditarod is said to commemorate the serum run to Nome. That relay was 674 miles (not 1,000) with 20 brave mushers, 18 teams and 150 loyal dogs, the longest stint was 91 miles; the package was then passed to the next team.
Wouldn’t a relay race, passing a 20 lb. package be more entertaining, humane and true to the spirit of the “Great Race Of Mercy’’ as it was called then? Sadly some dogs died in that life-saving relay as well but now deaths need not continue…
If you dare, check out “The Dog Sled Coalition,’’ a group committed to improving the lives of Iditarod sled dogs.
Carrie Kinison