Iditarod Dropped Dogs

According to Iditarod.com:

“Dropped dogs” is the term used to describe the canine athletes who have been part of a musher’s team during the race and have been dropped out of the race at one of the checkpoints for one reason or another. These athletes are transported back to Anchorage. They arrive in Anchorage at either Ted Stevens International Airport or on Lake Hood just behind the Millennium. Dog Drop volunteers assist in helping the dogs de-plane and the provide care for them until either they are picked up by their musher’s designated handler or are taken out to Hiland Mountain Correctional Center where they are cared for by inmates until they are picked up by handlers. The Dog Drop volunteers are involved in caring for the dogs as well as contacting handlers to schedule pickups and maintaining records of each “canine athlete” in their care. Kate Swift is the Dog Drop Volunteer Coordinator.

Since I was staying at the Millennium, I was able to visit with some of the dropped dogs Monday and Tuesday morning before my departure.

Some of the dogs appeared nervous/confused upon arrival. I'm sure they were wondering why they had been separated from the rest of their team.

Dogs received medical assistance from vets if necessary.

The volunteers were dedicated to providing each dog food/water, straw for a bed, blankets for warmth and plenty of TLC.

Most of these dropped dogs were suffering from minor ailments such as sore shoulders or hips.
One dog was thought to have pneumonia and was taken inside immediately.
All the dogs were sweet, affectionate and appreciative of the extra attention.

I considered it a privilege to be allowed to spend time with these incredible dogs.

This was, by far, one of my favorite experiences of the entire trip.

Happy Trails,