The dogs are ready for longer runs, but we are still working them around 7 miles in order to get them traveling fast and surefooted on the slick glare ice that covers all of our main running trails. The area we live in is pretty much a floating sponge (muskeg) so when it freezes in the fall, the sponge sinks from weight and water seeps through and freezes. Without even a dusting of snow, it can be very challenging for the dogs, but with consistant training on the rough terrain, the dogs have learned not only to keep their footing, even around ice patched windy corners, but also to do it quickly. We have decided to stay at this mileage until we achieve the goal of running this trail at an average speed of 10mph. Right now they are traveling around 9mph average, so it's not too far to go!
Here are some photographs of the area where we live and the dogs out on a run. The first picture is of the first clouds we've seen in nearly a month! It turned out to be nothing. The second photo is of our dog team taking a break during a midday run.
Here is our dog team just coming back from a run, about to get a drink of water and a snack. Each dog gets as much water as they want and a handful of kibble or chunk of meat as a reward. The picture on the right shows you why we need some snow! It's really bumpy!
Our ponds are frozen solid, and we take this opportunity to train the puppies that ice is fun. We skate around and play with the puppies as they gain confidence on the weird surface. We bring the puppies and pet dogs on lots of walks, and they have a great time. Once the snow flies we'll harness break the puppies and have the pets pulling firewood and water.
And of course, Denali is always looking over us. Although it's beautiful, we long for the day that it is hidden by snow clouds!
