Ed and Bolt at the Vet Check

The Iditarod is a tough race so it’s important that every dog that starts the race is as healthy as possible. Vet checks before and during the race are mandatory to ensure the health of these super athletes. On Wednesday morning all of the teachers in my group visited Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla, Alaska for the prerace Vet Check. Every dog is completely checked over by a team of volunteer veterinarians. The mushers who live in Alaska usually have their vet appointments a week or two before the race, but the mushers who come from farther away have their dogs examined on Wednesday. Guess who was there? Our special Michigan musher, Ed Stielstra! He had just finished having his dogs checked. Ed is hoping to improve his finish this year, but doesn’t think he’ll win because his team is young. Most of his dogs are less than 3 years old, including Bolt, the dog Mrs. Perl’s and Mrs. Anderson’s class raised money to sponsor. Ed said that even though they don’t have the most experience, they are a fun group. He has had more fun this training season than ever before. I had a chance to meet Bolt. He’s a friendly guy-at least I think he is because he tried to kiss me! I hope you enjoy the pictures I took of Bolt and Ed.