Stardancer Husbandry and Health
Care Practices
The Star Dancer Historical Freight Dogs are fed a very high quality
poultry based kibble formulated specifically for athletic dogs. I
supplement the kibble with raw meat during
cold weather conditions and any day they go for a run, plus the day
following. They are also supplemented with probiotic and salmon
oil.
During winter, the dogs are given a small portion
of feed in a large volume of water each morning. Their water is "baited" to
encourage them to drink quickly, before the water can cool and freeze.
During warmer months they are provided with fresh clear water at all
times.
The dogs receive the bulk of their feed, again
with a healthy ration of water, each evening. While on the trail I
also provide frequent high protein and high fat snacks of raw meat or
fish.
When a new dog is introduced to the Stardancer team he or she is taken
to visit our veterinarian as soon as is mutually convenient.
During this initial visit the dog is given a baseline physical
examination, any vaccinations that may be needed, and not been
previously receives a
microchip for identification purposes. Stardancer dogs are treated
for potential parasites (wormed) quarterly. Each Stardancer Historical Freight Dog
receives an annual physical examination, just like their musher.
The kennel is poop-scooped at least twice each day, once following the morning
watering, and again after evening feeding. Often the kennel is
scooped a third time at some point during the day just to keep things
neat, tidy and healthy. Each dog receives individual one-on-one
attention every time I do something in the yard. This may range
from a brief hug to a quick obedience training session, a message, clipping
overgrown toenails or whatever other sort of activity the dog seems to
be interested in initiating.
Each day the dogs go on a run they
receive a hands-on physical exam to identify any injuries or issues,
which can then be treated. The dogs receive a similar examination
the next morning, looking for symptoms that may be delayed in onset or
may have developed overnight. Frequent handling allows me to be
certain of a dog's health and physical condition, and makes it easier
for the dog to tolerate handling by a veterinarian when necessary.
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