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National Park Service Dog Kennels
Sled
dogs have been used to protect Denali
National Park and its wildlife since
the park was established. The very
first ranger ever hired, Harry Karstens,
founded the kennels around 1921 and
used dog patrols to stem poaching,
which was devastating wildlife populations
in the newly-created park.
Today, these sled dogs serve the
same purpose. In the winter, they patrol
some two million acres of park. Sometimes
they haul supplies to designated
wilderness where mechanized vehicles
are prohibited. Occasionally, they
transport wildlife researchers.
In summer, the 30 dogs in the kennel
serve another useful purpose: educating
visitors. Visitors can walk around
the kennels themselves and pet some
of the dogs. Keep hold of small children
though—these dogs are enthusiastic
and can inadvertently knock over small
youngsters. Only the very friendliest
dogs are allowed actual contact with
visitors, however.
An interpreter - led program explains
how the kennels work, what the dogs
eat, how dogs hook up to the sled,
and where the dogs go when they retire.
A winter camp is set up, including
wall tent and small wood stove, so
you can get a sense of life on the
winter trail.
The highlight of the tour is usually
when 6 sled dogs are hooked up to a
sled, and an employee holds on and
goes for a quick, wild ride on a loop
trail. It is obvious the dogs love
it and are chagrined when they are
not chosen for the demonstration run.
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