Pawsitively Dog-Powered

Wonder what it is like beginning the sport of mushing as a junior? Junior Musher Ian, his mom Ashlee, and his mentor Cruz join us for an episode to talk about how they all work together to make this sport a reality. Even with long distances between them- this team works together to find a way. From finances, to mentor feedback, and building teams- we talk about it all! 

Let's face it, living with dogs is adventurous and things don't usually go as planned. In this episode guests share fun, entertaining, and unexpected stories from their time on the trails with their dogs. 

Dog-powered sports aren't just for your stereotypical sled dogs. In fact, small dog owners everywhere are finding that these active sports have an abundance of benefits for their small dog's behavior, energy needs, and their relationship as a team. In this episode Chelsea sits down with a fabulous panel (Abbey Johnson CPDT-KA, FDM, AKC Evaluator; Heather Coiner CTDI, AKC Evaluator; Maia Perez; and Paula Nowak CNWI, CTDI) for an in-depth discussion of what these sports look like for small breed dogs and how you can get involved. 

Finding your passion and pursuing it at the top level takes commitment. But it also takes laughter and time to dig deep to find your fire. In this episode, Chelsea sits down to chat with elite skijor athlete Jessica Pulliam. Join us for an honest conversation about some of the challenges and some of the beautiful moments that come from our engagement in dog-powered sports. 

All dogs deserve to live a life full of adventure- but some of our canine partners have some impairments that require us as owners and caregivers to be mindful! With some modifications we can help bring out the best in disabled dogs so they too can enjoy adventures and for some, dog-powered sports!

Maiu Lünekund has quickly become immersed in many facets of dog-powered sports and loves getting out into nature with her dogs. In part two of the conversation, Chelsea and Maiu talk about her big journey on the Kungsleden. Maiu, her two Alaskan Huskies Linkka and Odezza, a pair of skis, and a pulk headed out for a month long trip. From preparation, to adventures on the trails and returning home- we talk about it all! Plus, Maiu shares some real life tips to help you plan your next trip. 

Have you ever dreamed of bigger adventures? Maiu Lünekund didn't come from the sleddog world but has quickly become immersed. When she isn't on the trails with large teams she enjoys multi-day and week off the grid trips with her Alaskan Huskies. In part one of our conversation, Chelsea and Maiu talk about how she got into sleddog sports, living the van life, and some of the real-world realities of dog adventures. 

We all hope for clean runs on the trail without any incidences. But are you prepared for the unexpected? Join Chelsea as she sits down to chat with musher and veterinarian Taylor Johannigman. They talk about some medical conditions you should be aware of, packing your first aid kit, and some on-trail triage. 

Resources Mentioned in This Episode: 

For 21 years Niina has enjoyed dog-powered sports. Now, racing at an elite level in sprint classes, she shares with us a little about her training, racing, and behind the scenes prep of what it takes to get her and her dogs in top form. 

Raising puppies responsibly is a lot of work. To add in harness training can seem overwhelming with so many mixed messages on the internet. In this episode join Chelsea and she sits down to talk with musher and DVM Sarah Kassing about the science behind puppy growth and development and some key considerations you should make while raising your next sled dog.