/ 2007 Archived Material / Trail Tidbits 3

Target Iditarod Teacher on the Trail^™ Trail Tidbits 3

by Kim Slade

The Wells Fargo’s Lead Dog Jack:

Huskies won’t be the only dogs out on the trail – Jack; Wells Fargo’s Lead Dog will be traveling along the trail too!

 In the days of the Gold Rush, dogs like Jack helped Wells Fargo agents guard gold and treasure shipments as they moved from mining camps to WF offices.  These dogs became symbols of security and faithful service in the express business.

 Since these security dogs played a role in transportation, I felt it only fitting that Jack travel along the Historic Iditarod Trail.  He will be my companion and will show up in my journaling, “Where is Jack?”  Look for him along the 2007 Iditarod Trail!

 Vet Checks Take Place Today:

Final pre-race check-ups took place today at the Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla.  All Iditarod dogs go through a variety of tests in order to run the race.  Electrocardiograms (ECG), blood work, and overall checks for general well-being had to be done by 5 p.m. today, Wednesday, February 28, 2007.  The dogs also underwent the essential “HAWL” examination.  The “H” stands for heart & hydration, the “A” is for attitude & appetite, the “W” stands for weight, and the “L” is for lungs. 

 Right now mushers are carrying 20 dogs, but each musher will soon have to declare his or her team.  They will have until Sunday to make a final decision which sixteen dogs will leave the chute.