From Chicago to Anchorage: The Iditarod Dogs by Jackie Denton

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

We started off this morning traveling an hour outside of Anchorage to the Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla, Alaska. This is where the canine athletes have their final vet checks before the race. The veterinarians assess every dog’s heart, muscles, and all-around health before giving them the all-clear to participate with their musher (human) in the race.

After watching the vet checks for about two hours, we traveled to Willow to the 17^thDog Kennel. This kennel is owned by Matthew Failor, from Ohio. He is racing in his 14^th Iditarod and one of his kennel handlers, Dane Baker is a rookie this year, meaning this is his first time racing the Iditarod. We spent time getting to know the dogs, learning about their race plans, as well as what they are planning on taking with them on the trail. Matthew’s favorite snack is Pringles and Dane prefers Sour Patch Kids!