Is everyone in the lower 48 doing well? Hee, hee! I love asking that!
It was a full day in Alaska. The day could not have been prettier or more perfect – brisk weather (cool in the shade, warm in the sun) and beautiful blue skies with just a few clouds teasing Mt. McKinley.
Are you ready to oooh and aaah?
Today’s show and tell….
This morning we enjoyed a tour of Jeff and Donna King’s Husky Homestead. Jeff King, the “winningest musher in the world,” opens his Alaska homestead to the public every summer for a fascinating tour of his champion dog kennel. Jeff won the 1,049-mile Iditarod Sled Dog Race three times. The homestead is home to 75 Alaskan Huskies.
When the bus rolled up to the homestead, we were greeted by a gang of puppies ranging from 3 weeks to 12 weeks of age.
Socializing starts young. I know a lot of breeders who make you wash your hands and take off your shoes before they will even show you their puppies. Jeff encouraged us to love and handle the puppies for almost half an hour.
This little guy playfully tugs at Cole’s hair.
This puppy baby wanted to snuggle under Cole’s neck.
We saw the dogs being trained, and learned about the dogs themselves – their history and lifestyle. These dogs were clearly well-loved and allowed to do what they were bred to do: run and pull. We saw their enthusiasm in action in front of a four-wheeler, on their powered training carrousel , and “gerbil wheel.”
Some Odd facts shared by the King Family:
- When racing, Alaskan Huskies consume 3,000 calories.
- They usually run six hours on and six hours off, sleeping on straw so they don’t burn calories keeping warm.
- Jeff starts out with sixteen dogs. In other words, he takes his “bench” with him. Dogs who get injured or young dogs out for training will be sent home during the race. He usually finishes with between six to eight dogs.
- And finally, Cole’s and my personal favorite ODD fact: If you are ever stranded in the Arctic Circle, never eat polar bear liver! It is toxic to humans. Good to know, don’t you think?!!
Puppies are counted before you board the bus or I might have been tempted…just a little…
Next up! Alaskan White Water Rafting.
The Oddest part of this experience is the wet suit. Your mind keeps telling you, “OH MY GOD! I AM GOING TO BE DRENCHED IN 35 DEGREE GLACIER WATER!” And you are drenched, but you stay almost completely dry. Despite the fact you never get wet, your mind will keep trying to convince you that you will for almost the entire trip.
We stayed almost dry, while riding some real wild and crazy rapids. IT WAS FUN!!
After a full Alaskan Day, the sun did not set but we did!
Glad you were in my Odd neighborhood. Feel free to drop by any time. Odd Loves Company and odd loves you and you and you!! I would love to hear from you in the comment section of this blog, or on Facebook or Twitter!
Katybeth
Alaska~Day 3: Glaciers & Wild Ice Cream Eating Meese
Alaska~Day 4: Puppies and More
Alaska~Day 5: Wild Alaskan Man
Alaska~Day 6:~ Moose, Caribou, Dall Sheep, Bear….Oh My!
Alaska Day 7~Alaska Day 7~700 Alaskan Miles!
Alaska Day Wrap-Up ~So you want to go to Alaska….?
Those puppies were so cute, I even want one now!
XOXO
M
This is so fantastic! I really want to go to Alaska. I love this country and I must see it all! I thought the Tetons were fabulous but this picture really looks exciting naturally the puppies helped. I suspect Cole really has enjoyed himself. You have given Cole lifetime memories he will never forget.Thanks for sharing.
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