Have you ever wanted to take a ride on a dogsled? Have you seen TV coverage of the Iditarod and wondered what it might be like? The truth is, the experience is every bit as much fun as it appears. With hundreds of sled dog touring kennels in the US and hundreds more around the world, it is also more accessible than you think.

Touring kennels offer a variety of services. By far the most popular is the traditional dog sled ride on snow. Rides on snow are typically in the winter months of December through March (depending on location and hemisphere.) Reservations are almost always required and there are usually weight limits. Many kennels let the customers drive their own sleds, while others provide professional drivers and let the customers sit back and enjoy the ride.

If you are planning a winter vacation, check your destination for nearby kennels. Many of the touring kennels are located near ski areas. A peaceful tour through the woods pulled by huskies is a great way to spend a day off from skiing. Sledding kennels also offer more in depth programs for sleddog lovers looking for a deeper experience. Spend anywhere from 30 minutes to 21 days on a dogsled, working with your own team.

Some touring kennels also offer skijoring. Skijoring is for guests with some cross country skiing experience. Basically you put your skis on, hook a dog or two in front of you, and then try not to hurt yourself. It is a wonderful way to experience cross country ski trails is a different way.

And the fun does not have to stop when the snow melts. Many sled dog kennels offer rides on wheels during the warmer months. There are dog carts which usually have four wheels, a steering wheel and a brake. Dog scooters usually have two wheels. There are three wheeled dog powered carts also, but I have yet to see a dog unicycle (send me a link if you find one!)

Another option for those not ready to take a ride is a kennel tour. Kennel tours include some education about nutrition, vet care, dog training, and racing. The hands-on part of the tour usually includes petting puppies and handling a sled. Many kennels also include a pulling demonstration as part of there kennel tour.

Click on one of the links below to learn more.

• Sled rides on snow
• Sleddog skijoring on snow
• Cart rides on wheels
• Kennel tours

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