Pannus or Uberreiter’s Disease seen in Siberian Husky and Alaskan Husky breeds

by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM Pannus or Uberreiter’s disease refers to a corneal abnormality most prevalent in German Shepherds, Border Collies, Siberian Huskies and Australian Shepherds. Alaskan Huskies often include these breeds in their lineage, and although infrequent, they are also affected by Pannus. There are several definitions of the disease process, but the condition …

Laryngeal Hemiplegia: a disorder affecting husky breeds

by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM The medical topic for this discussion pertains to a condition affecting the respiratory tract, and more specifically, the larynx. The disorder, which may be inherited or acquired, is referred to as laryngeal paralysis or laryngeal hemiplegia. It is considered as a hereditary abnormality in Siberian Huskies and husky mixed breeds, …

Basic outline of Iditarod dog care measures

by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM Musher Entry Requirements Completion of qualifying races approved by the Iditarod Trail Committee. Review of performance by Iditarod Race Officials. Veterinarian Selection 5 years minimum clinical practice experience. Previous experience working with racing sled dogs. Ability to work with others as a team. Fluency in English – some foreign veterinarians …

Rabies, a topic of concern for dogs and humans

by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM I have chosen to address a topic of concern for dogs and humans in this article. Rabies is a disease we are all familiar with, at least on a superficial level, but I think its important to emphasize some key points about this infection that may not be common knowledge. …

Jeff Deeter on Training for the Cold

Jeff Deeter is used to the daily routine of running sled dogs in the elements. The weather in and around Fairbanks this winter may help this veteran Musher and his team.

Aaron Burmeister on Dog Nutrition

Aaron Burmeister, video from 2015 Iditarod, comments on how nutrition is a big factor in a healthy running sled dog team. With temperatures dipping well into the negative digits in Manley, it’s very important to keep those dogs fueled for their long trip.

ACL type injuries found to be rare in sled dogs

by Stuart Nelson, Jr., DVM Many of you may have experienced knee injuries, including ACL tears. You know what I’m referring to! Ouch! For those of you who may not be aware, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is critical to normal function of the knee joint. This structure, most commonly referred to as the cranial …

Ten Tips for Taking Care of Your Dog

PROVIDE A PROTECTED AND CLEAN LIVING ENVIRONMENT FOR YOUR DOG. Shelter from the elements and hazards, as well as good hygiene, are basic to a quality life.         ALWAYS KEEP FRESH WATER AVAILABLE. Maintaining optimal hydration is important for health and energy. FEED A QUALITY DIET AND PREVENT OBESITY. Overweight humans and animals can adversely …

Jessie Royer wins Northern Air Cargo 4×4 drawing

Thanks to all who tuned in to the Northern Air Cargo 4×4 musher drawing! If you missed it, veteran musher Jessie Royer won the Northern Air Cargo 4×4. We drew keys almost to the last musher. We also announced Aaron Burmeister as the Northern Air Cargo Herbie Nayokpuk Memorial Award recipient. Watch the full video …

Aaron Burmeister honored with 2020 Northern Air Cargo Herbie Nayokpuk Memorial Award

Veteran Iditarod musher Aaron Burmeister of Nome and Nenana, Alaska, was chosen as the musher who most represents the spirit of Herbie Nayokpuk, the “Shishmaref Cannonball,” and was bestowed the Northern Air Cargo Herbie Nayokpuk Memorial Award.   Race checkers along the Norton Sound part of the Iditarod trail – from Unalakleet to Nome – …