Two Face, a dog belonging to Matt Failor, seems to be asking Kim Henneman, DVM, DACVSMR from Utah,  “Are those your real ears?”  Or maybe, the dog is inquiring about the shamrocks as the photo was taken on St. Patrick’s Day in Unalakleet.

Each year there are approximately 45 veterinarians who come to the Iditarod trail to volunteer their time and talents with the greatest athletes on earth.  It’s a group of men and women who represent many countries around the globe.  In common is their degree in veterinary medicine, a membership in the International Sled Dogs Veterinary Medical Association (ISDVMA) and a love for sled dogs.  These folks give up weeks from their own practices to work as veterinarians for Iditarod.

Iditarod’s Chief Veterinarian Stu Nelson says, “The Iditarod is unique, even when compared to other sled dog races.  Travel is strictly by air or snowmachine, living conditions are typically very crowded, meals are often haphazard, rest periods may be sparse and schedules can change at a moments notice.  Often, Murphy’s Law rules.  We have had veterinarians from France, England, Canada, Austria, Australia and Germany to name a few of the foreign countries as well as the United States.”    

Watch for more Telephoto Stories.  Having worked as an Iditarod volunteer for twelve years and having my camera handy every hour of every day, the Eye on the Trail Iditarod photo library contains roughly 20,000 pictures.  Sharing photos with a brief description to tell a photo story is a great way to share favorite photos and unique pieces of Iditarod history with Iditarod fans, family and friends.  Enjoy and comeback soon for another Telephoto Story.