When we arose for the day, it was just beautiful outside. Sunny and around 60 degrees and would go up to 70. Since we were so disappointed about yesterday, we decided to spend the day seeing other features at the park.
First we went to the Murie Science and Learning Center where we listened to a presentation about Pre historic Animals and fossils that have been discovered in the park which included some I sure have never heard of and don’t remember them now. That was not a favorite subject in my science classes in school. There are just things I never understood and find hard to believe today. When we get old and dumb we tend to stay that way. UUGH! There were several children there and I believe that it’s a great place for them to learn about the history of the park and it’s creatures.
We discovered we could take a tour to the Sled Dog Kennels and watch a demonstration as well as pet some of the dogs. Gosh!, what strength these dogs have and they are so eager to get harnessed to a sled so they can pull it. On a need-to day, they can pull the sled, master and cargo up to fifty miles in one day. The normal is around twenty miles. The dogs are not just for show, the park uses the dog sleds for routine transportation when snow is on the ground. It is the best mode of transportation for the Rangers. Some parts of the park are busy year round.
They stay outside in all weather in a dog house to help ward off the elements, especially when the temperature drops down to forty below zero. BRRR. They are chained to the dog house to prevent them from running away. The normal life span for pulling a sled is up to eight years. After that, the park starts looking for someone to adopt them. The adopter is legally required to keep the dog in a cold climate, like Alaska, and provide an active life style. They are not your normal dog, they are super athletes. Employees of the park can volunteer to take the dogs for a walk, minimum three times a week, and can apply to adopt their dog. It takes the park a good while to approve it. Obviously, not just anyone can adopt one.
Being such a nice day, and the next day was predicted to be as well, we decided to take the 12 hour tour all the way out to Kantishna, ninety three miles into the park. So, we got our tickets and prayed for good weather. We heard that for every one good weather day there were two or three rainy ones. Oh well!
I'll wait my turn
Pick me, pick me
See My Pretty Blue Eyes? I'll just stay here
Which harness do I pick? They are color coded for the size of the dog.
We'll use this sled
After the Run
I like this one
Smell Something? I farted.
Ground Squirrel--Hey, what about me?
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