Alaskan Huskies are the dogs that compete most successfully in long-distance sled dog races.  These animals descend from northern breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes.  Today's racing dogs are smaller and faster, bred for speed and endurance.

Soldotna Animal Hospital is one of the locations for pre-race bloodwork and ECG checkups prior to the Iditarod.  Dr. Bowser has worked as a trail veterinarian for the Iditarod, the Copper Basin 300 and is currently head veterinarian for the Tustumena 200, and Iditarod qualifier held here on the Kenai Peninsula.

Soldotna Animal Hospital cares for many dogs that are involved in recreational mushing and skijouring activities.  We also provide veterinary care for competitive dog mushers such as Mitch Seavey (Iditarod champion 2004), Lance Mackey (Yukon Quest champion 2005 and 2006), Tim Osmar (Yukon Quest champion 2001), and Dean Osmar (Iditarod champion 1984). 

For more information on the sport of sled dog racing please see the links below.

www.iditarod.com                                                 www.tustumena200.com

www.yukonquest.com                                            www.cb300.com