The Lowdown on Siberian Huskies, Just the Basics

Congratulations on your decision to welcome a Siberian Husky into your home! Whether you have already made this decision or are still considering it, this chapter provides a brief overview of the book and serves as a starting point for exploring the world of Siberian Huskies.

Knowing What to Look for: A Husky’s Breed Standard

Identifying a Siberian Husky can be challenging due to the presence of similar-looking breeds such as Alaskan Malamutes, Samoyeds, Alaskan Klee Kai, Northern Inuits, wolves, and wolf-hybrids. It is crucial to adhere to specific standards to confirm that the dog in question is indeed a Siberian Husky.

• Size
• Body
• Front and back views
• Neck
• Skull
• Teeth
• Expression
• Eyes
• Ears
• Feet
• Tail
• Coat texture
• Color
• Nose
• Gait
• Temperament

Chapter Recognizing What a Siberian Husky Is (and Isn’t) discusses these standards in greater detail to help you identify a true Siberian Husky.

HUSKIES STARTED WITH THE CHUKCHIS

The Chukchis are a semi-nomadic group known for their reindeer-hunting traditions in northeastern Siberia. Presently, their overall population stands at approximately 16,000, although historical records suggest that it was once more significant. The Chukchis have faced adverse weather conditions and political challenges throughout their history, leading to their nickname as the "Apaches of the North," a term they do not use for themselves. Rather, they refer to themselves as the Luoravetlan, which translates to "the genuine people."

The region known as Siberia is commonly associated with frigid temperatures, yet historical evidence suggests that the earliest Chukchis may have experienced a more temperate climate. During this period, dogs were utilized primarily for hunting the abundant reindeer population. However, approximately 3,000 years ago, the climate underwent a significant shift for the worse. As a result, the reindeer were forced to travel greater distances in search of food, and the Chukchis, who relied heavily on these animals, had to migrate along with them, bringing their entire households with them.

The Siberian dogs were trained to excel in sled hauling, a skill highly valued by the Chukchi people. Only individuals who were very young, very old, or very ill were permitted to ride in the sleds as passengers, highlighting the esteem in which these animals were held. The sleds were primarily employed for transporting goods, with the Chukchi people walking alongside. Occasionally, Chukchi women and children would assist in pulling the sleds, working in tandem with the dogs.

The Chukchi culture is renowned for its richness and complexity. Among their many beliefs, they developed a sophisticated religion that included a vision of heaven guarded by their revered Chukchi dogs. It was widely held that mistreating these dogs would result in exclusion from Chukchi heaven.

Due to the Chukchis' reliance on reindeer for heavy loads, they placed great importance on the development of their dogs' speed, endurance, and agility. This investment proved fruitful, as the Siberian Husky has proven to be unparalleled in its ability to transport light loads over great distances at impressive speeds, all while requiring minimal sustenance.

The Russians are coming!

The Chukchis posed a significant challenge to the Russian government during the 1700s as they refused to surrender despite the Russians' efforts to control the fur trade. The Chukchis would simply relocate their settlements, even onto icebergs, to avoid being caught. However, a Russian general named Pavlutskiy attempted to defeat the Chukchis by entering a narrow ravine, which proved to be a fatal mistake. The Chukchis were ready for an ambush and successfully killed the Russians, including Pavlutskiy, and seized their weapons. With the help of disaffected Russian serfs, they learned how to use the firearms. Eventually, the Russians realized it was best to leave the Chukchis alone.

The Communists versus the Huskies

During the 1930s, there was a push by the Communist regime to eradicate traditional, non-Soviet cultural practices, which included the elimination of native dog breeds. The use of sled dogs was deemed obsolete and replaced with motorized vehicles. However, this decision proved to be misguided when the vehicles were unable to navigate the snowy terrain in Chukchi land.

In 1947, the Soviet Congress made a decision to reclassify hunting dogs into four new subdivisions, which did not correspond to any real breed. This decision included the elimination of sled dogs and reindeer-herding dogs. Interestingly, the Husky breed was not included in these classifications. The Soviets deemed the Husky too small to pull anything, despite their historical use in sled hauling throughout Siberia for thousands of years.

The Siberian breed was notably smaller than other Arctic breeds, typically weighing around 50 pounds, leading to some ridicule from the Russians. However, the Chukchis recognized the unparalleled long-distance sledding capabilities of these dogs. To increase their power, the Chukchis would simply add more dogs to the sled, and due to the Siberian's exceptional temperament, up to 18 or 20 dogs could be harnessed together without any conflict.

Additionally, Siberian Huskies possess several notable advantages. Due to their upbringing in a familial environment as opposed to being left to fend for themselves, they exhibit a reliable temperament around children. Moreover, they possess unparalleled speed and endurance, requiring minimal sustenance compared to any other breed globally.

Understanding Why Huskies Make Great Pets

Siberian Huskies are highly regarded as loyal and affectionate canine companions. It is important to note, however, that they are a breed that requires significant attention and physical activity due to their energetic nature. Prospective Husky owners should be prepared to provide ample exercise, affection, and a stable environment. It is crucial to recognize the responsibilities that come with owning a dog, particularly one with the boundless energy of a Siberian Husky.

When bringing a new Husky home, it is important to consider several factors:

• Children: While most Huskies are good with children, it is important to note that not all Huskies are the same. However, Huskies are generally playful and can adapt well as long as your children treat them with kindness.
• Cost: Owning a dog can be expensive, factoring in medical care, high-quality food, grooming, supplies, toys, training classes, and more.
• Your home: If you prefer a meticulously clean home, a Husky may not be the best fit for you. They can shed, and if they do not get enough exercise, they may focus their attention on things you would rather they didn't, such as your couch pillows or coffee table legs.

It is important to keep in mind that a large fenced backyard is ideal for a Husky, as they require plenty of space to exercise. If you do not have a fenced yard, be prepared to take your Husky on a daily walk.

• Climate: Huskies prefer cooler climates due to their thick coats, and they are particularly susceptible to heat exhaustion.
• Time and exercise: Huskies are energetic and require a lot of attention and exercise.
• Other pets: While Siberians generally get along well with other dogs, it is important to be mindful of other pets, including cats, unless the Siberian has been around the cat since puppyhood.

Chapter Selecting a Siberian Husky provides more detailed information regarding these topics.

Picking a Husky: Where to Go and Where to Avoid

When searching for a Husky, there are several options available, ranging from shelters to breeders. It is crucial to carefully consider each option to make an informed decision.

It is strongly advised to avoid purchasing a Husky from a pet store due to their association with puppy mills. These establishments have a reputation for mistreating dogs, and the likelihood of acquiring an unhealthy pet is significantly higher, resulting in increased veterinary expenses.

The following are the most reliable sources for obtaining a Husky for your family:

• Breeders: A breeder is the best option to obtain a genetically healthy, well-tempered, and robust Siberian puppy. Breeders take extra precautions to ensure their dogs are in good health. Many breeders participate in dog shows and sports, and they often sell their puppies that are not suitable for these activities, making them excellent pets for you.
• Shelters and rescue organizations: If you prefer an older Husky that was surrendered by its previous owners, shelters and rescue organizations are ideal. Their dogs are typically affectionate and require a loving home.

Recommendation

For those interested in adopting a Husky, we suggest reaching out to your local shelter or rescue organization. These establishments typically offer the opportunity to visit and interact with the dogs in order to determine compatibility. Adopting an older dog is often a less time-intensive process than bringing home a puppy. For further information on these options and locating your new furry family member, please refer to Chapter Selecting a Siberian Husky.

OLAF SWENSON SAVES THE DAY

Regrettably, it is believed that there are no remaining purebred Siberian Huskies in their native land due to their disappearance during the Stalinist purges, which also resulted in the loss of most of the Chukchis and millions of dissident Russians. However, it is fortunate that some Huskies were exported to North America, with the last of them arriving in 1929. Notably, Arctic explorer and fur trader Olaf Swenson acquired some of these Huskies at a high cost of $150. Swenson had established amicable relationships with the Chukchis over several years and was the only outsider ever granted permission to enter Chukchi territory.

Swenson appreciated the amiable disposition of the Siberian dogs as well as the compassionate care they received from their Chukchi caretakers. He recognized the correlation between these two elements. In contrast, numerous other breeds in the northern region were subjected to harsh treatment by their handlers, which ultimately led to their own aggressive behavior.

Swenson had a strong desire to acquire a specific dog named Billkoff (Snowball) for a period of two years. Despite his persistent efforts, he was consistently denied the opportunity to purchase the dog, regardless of the amount he offered. However, Swenson once performed a small favor for the Chukchi, and although he did not see his friend for a year, he was warmly welcomed upon his return. His Chukchi friend graciously presented Billkoff to Swenson and insisted that he accept the dog as a gift, refusing any payment in return.

Billkoff demonstrated exceptional leadership skills as Swenson's lead dog. Even the most stubborn dogs on the team willingly followed his lead, providing a crucial advantage. From the team's perspective, the lead dog's role may even surpass that of the driver since the driver lacks reins to direct the team and must rely on the lead dog's guidance.

Recognizing the endangered status of the Siberian Husky breed, Swenson took action by importing top-quality Chukchi dogs to the United States. These dogs were distributed to various locations, including Maine and Quebec, and some were selectively bred with the renowned Leonhard Seppala's dogs (see sidebar for more information on Seppala).

Introducing Your Husky to His New Home

Assisting your new Husky in adjusting and acclimating to your household can be a challenging task. As your pet is unfamiliar with their new surroundings, it is important to approach this experience with patience and care. Chapter Welcoming Home Your Husky provides comprehensive guidance on various aspects, such as introducing your Husky to their first meal and providing reassurance during their initial night in your home. Additionally, if your Husky is not yet potty trained, it is advisable to initiate housetraining at the earliest convenience.

Recommendation

It is highly recommended to schedule a comprehensive checkup with your veterinarian before or shortly after bringing your new Husky home. Additionally, the following sections highlight several other essential aspects to keep in mind during the process of welcoming a Husky into your home.

Ensuring you have the right supplies

When welcoming your new Husky into your home, it's essential to ensure that you have the necessary supplies to make both your lives comfortable. Below are some crucial items to consider:

• Collar: A well-fitted collar is necessary to attach the ID tag and leash for walks.
• Leash: A sturdy leash, also known as a lead, allows you to take your Husky on walks and keep them safe.
• Harness: You may prefer a harness to a collar, which fits around your dog's chest and torso instead of their neck.
• ID tag: As Huskies tend to run off, having their name and your contact information on the ID tag is imperative.
• Food and water bowls: Stainless steel or chrome bowls are the best options to feed and water your Husky in style.
• Bed: With a wide variety of bed types available, it's important to choose one that is machine washable to eliminate Husky hair and odors.
• Crate: Even if you don't plan on using a crate for sleeping, it's crucial to have one as Huskies often like to retreat to their crate. A wide assortment of crates are available.
• Toys: Toys are a great way to entertain your Husky and prevent boredom. Consider using different types of toys to stimulate them, and a combination chew and toy is highly recommended.

For further information on these supplies and more, please refer to Chapter Outfitting Your New Husky.

Listening to your Husky

Huskies communicate with their owners through both verbal and nonverbal cues. Understanding and interpreting these cues can help strengthen the bond between the owner and their Husky, while also preventing potential issues. This section provides an overview of the various ways in which a Husky may communicate with their owner.

Verbal communication is a common way in which dogs express themselves. Here is a brief overview of the different types of verbal cues that Huskies may use (Chapter Figuring Out What Your Husky Is Telling You provides a more detailed explanation):

• Barking: Huskies tend to bark less frequently than other breeds, but may use barking to mark their territory.
• Howling: A long and drawn-out howl may indicate that the Husky is communicating with their pack or other Huskies, warning of intruders, or expressing pain or sorrow.
• Whining: This may indicate that the Husky wants something from their owner, such as to be let in or out, or to be petted.
• Growling: If a Husky growls, it is likely a warning to whoever they are growling at.
• Yelping: This may indicate that the Husky is in pain.

Nonverbal cues are another way in which Huskies communicate with their owners. Here are some common behaviors to watch for and their explanations (Chapter Figuring Out What Your Husky Is Telling You provides more details):

• Circling and sniffing: This behavior is often exhibited when a Husky is greeting other dogs.
• Mounting: This is a sign of dominance and may indicate that the Husky is trying to establish themselves as the leader of the pack.
• Pawing: This may be a sign of dominance or an attempt to get the owner's attention.
• Bowing: A Husky that bows is typically exhibiting playful behavior.
• Belly-rubbing response: This behavior is a common way for Huskies to show that they enjoy being petted.
• Licking or tail-chewing: These behaviors can indicate a variety of things, such as nervousness, the need to eliminate, or fleas. It is important to inspect the Husky to determine the cause of these behaviors.

Helping your Husky make new friends

To ensure your Husky is comfortable around other dogs and people, we recommend the following suggestions:

• Introduce your Husky to a variety of people during your daily walks. Encourage your puppy to interact with individuals of all ages, including children, seniors, and cyclists, to help them become accustomed to different types of people.
• Enroll your Husky in a puppy kindergarten class. This is an excellent way for your puppy to learn new commands, obedience, and housetraining techniques.
• Introduce your Husky to children of all ages, from infants to tweens, but always supervise interactions with young children who may not know how to properly interact with a dog.
• Allow your Husky to socialize with other dogs and animals. Exposure to other dogs and animals can help your Husky feel more comfortable and content in various social situations.

Please note that socializing a dog who has not been properly socialized after 18 months can be a challenging task. We recommend allowing your Husky to interact with other people and animals. Chapter Socializing Your Siberian provides valuable information on effective methods for socializing your pet.

Incorporating some discipline and training

Providing proper discipline and basic training is crucial when living with a Husky. It is important to establish clear training goals and ensure consistency within your family before teaching your Husky commands.

Some essential commands to teach your Husky include:

• Watch Me: This command grabs your Husky's attention and helps them focus on your commands.
• Come: Although challenging, this command is crucial for your Husky's safety.
• Sit: This is one of the easiest commands to teach and should be mastered early on.
• Stay: This command helps your Husky develop patience and self-control.
• Leave or Get Out: Use this command to keep your Husky out of certain areas, such as the kitchen during meal preparation.
• Heel: A Husky that heels during walks is much more enjoyable to be around.

Chapter Training Your Husky provides in-depth guidance on these commands and more, including effective teaching methods.

Keeping an eye open for behavior issues

As a responsible Husky owner, it is important to be aware of certain behaviors that may be indicative of underlying issues that require attention. The following are some key concerns to keep in mind:

• Separation Anxiety in Huskies: Huskies may exhibit signs of separation anxiety due to various reasons, such as being left alone at home or the departure of a family member for college or death. There are several ways to address this issue, including desensitization techniques and medication, depending on the severity of the anxiety.

THE INFLUENCE OF LEONHARD SEPPALA

One of the most prominent figures in Siberian history is Leonhard Seppala, a Norwegian native hailing from the fishing village of Skyjaevoy, situated 250 miles within the Arctic Circle. Seppala was accustomed to harsh weather conditions and even enjoyed them. Upon immigrating to the United States in 1914, he made Alaska his new home and began his career by working in the goldfields and operating freight dogs. Eventually, he became enamored with the sport of racing.

To commence his new pursuit, Seppala procured some juvenile racing Huskies from Jafet Lindeberg. Originally intended for sale to the renowned Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen for his South Pole endeavor, the dogs became available when World War I disrupted Amundsen's plans. Seppala entered his new team in the 1914 All Alaska Sweepstakes Race (see Chapter Sledding with Your Siberian for further details), but suffered a resounding defeat. During a whiteout blizzard, he became disoriented and nearly fell off a 200-foot precipice. Fortunately, his Siberian lead dog, Suggen, reacted promptly and averted a calamity. Undaunted by the harrowing experience, Seppala resolved to try again the following year.

Seppala had a successful racing career with his Huskies, achieving victory in the All-Alaska Sweepstakes in 1915, 1916, and 1917. The races were suspended due to the United States' involvement in World War I. Seppala's triumphs extended beyond Alaska, as he also won races in New England and throughout the east coast of the United States. His accomplishments demonstrated the Husky's capacity to race over various distances, not solely marathons. Presently, Huskies are recognized for their proficiency in middle distance racing, spanning from 30 to 60 miles. This distance may be considered middle distance for Huskies, but not necessarily for humans.

Seppala's remarkable success in dog racing led to unfounded accusations of superhuman abilities and hypnotism. However, it is important to note that throughout his lengthy career, Seppala never resorted to striking his team of dogs, and only used his whip once to encourage them to quickly resume running after a brief rest. Presently, the use of whips is prohibited in official sled dog races.

• Thunder Fear: While it may be challenging to eliminate a Husky's fear of thunder, there are several ways to desensitize your furry friend. Creating a calm environment, offering gentle hugs and soothing words, providing supplements, or administering medication are all viable options.
• Digging: Huskies have a natural inclination to dig, and while it may be impossible to control this behavior entirely, you can redirect your Husky's attention by engaging in playtime, offering affection, and ensuring adequate exercise.
• Chewing: Puppies, in particular, have a propensity to chew, and Huskies are no exception. When you observe your Husky chewing on an inappropriate item, replace it with a more suitable option. Ensuring that your Husky receives enough exercise can also assist in managing this behavior.
• Escape Artist: Huskies are renowned for their ability to escape, making it challenging to retrieve them once they are out of your sight. To prevent this, ensure that your fence is secure and at least 6 feet tall, preferably 8 feet, to keep your Husky safely contained.

Chapter  Solving Bad Behavior discusses these problems and others in greater detail and gives you advice on how to deal with them.

Caring for Your Husky

When bringing a Husky into your household, it is essential to provide appropriate care and attention. With the abundance of options available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best course of action. Questions such as which food to choose and which vaccines to administer may arise. Additionally, potential emergency situations, such as choking, may cause concern. However, there is no need to fret. The following sections offer a concise overview to help you begin. Furthermore, Part 4 contains a wealth of advice and guidance, presented in clear and concise language, to assist you in your journey.

Making sure your Husky has proper nutrition

Providing your Husky with highly nutritious and flavorful food is crucial for their overall well-being. It is recommended to carefully review the labels of any food you plan to feed your Husky. There are various types of food options available that you may want to consider.

• Dry: Often called kibble, it’s the most convenient type of food.
• Canned: Canned foods are much more expensive than dry food; you can mix canned with dry for taste.
• People food: Fresh veggies and fruit, lean meat, and yogurt are okay. Stay clear of dairy products (milk can give your dog diarrhea) and processed meat. At all costs, avoid raw eggs, onions, chocolate, grapes and raisins, macadamia nuts, sugar-free gum and candy, and yeast, which can be deadly.

Caution

It is recommended to refrain from consuming semi-moist food due to its high sugar content, which can lead to obesity and tooth decay.

Chapter Feeding Your Husky explains dog nutrition and the different types of food that are best for your Husky.

Giving your Siberian a spa treatment

Proper grooming is a crucial aspect of canine care that goes beyond mere aesthetics. It not only promotes the overall health and well-being of your furry friend but also provides an excellent opportunity for you to bond with your dog. As a Husky owner, it is essential to pay attention to the following grooming practices:

• Brushing and combing: Huskies have a double coat of hair that requires regular attention. It is recommended to give your Husky a thorough brush at least once a week and lighter brushing and combing several times a week.
• Bathing: Due to a Husky's non-oily skin, frequent bathing is unnecessary. When bathing your dog, it is advisable to use a mild, unmedicated shampoo specifically designed for double-coated dogs and ensure thorough rinsing.
• Trimming nails: Regularly trimming your Husky's nails is crucial, and it is recommended to do this task weekly.
• Brushing teeth: To prevent plaque buildup, it is recommended to brush your Husky's teeth regularly using toothpaste designed specifically for dogs.

Chapter Grooming Your Siberian discusses these grooming tasks and more in greater detail. You may want to turn to a professional groomer for help with some of the more complex grooming, so I give suggestions on finding the right groomer for you and your Husky.

Ensuring your Husky is healthy

Ensuring the health and happiness of your Husky is crucial, and it is your responsibility as a pet owner. Regular visits to your veterinarian are highly recommended to assess your dog's well-being. During these visits, your veterinarian will discuss the importance of administering a range of vaccines to your Husky, including:

• Canine parvovirus: Also known as parvo, this highly contagious viral infection can be prevented by complete immunization between 16 and 18 weeks of age.
• Distemper: A severe disease that attacks the nervous system and remains a primary cause of death for dogs worldwide. Puppies should be completely immunized between 12 and 14 weeks of age.
• Hepatitis: Another serious disease that is similar to distemper. Puppies should be immunized at 12 weeks.
• Rabies: A fatal virus that affects both dogs and humans. Puppies should be immunized between 16 and 24 weeks of age.
• Kennel cough: An acute respiratory condition commonly found in dogs that live in close quarters like kennels and shelters. Puppies should be immunized at 16 weeks.

In addition to heartworm, fleas, ticks, and other ailments, your veterinarian will provide treatment. Chapter Focusing on Your Husky’s Health and Wellbeing delves into further detail regarding the various conditions that your veterinarian will address.

Noting any changes in your Husky’s health

It is important to have a thorough understanding of the physical characteristics of a healthy Husky in order to recognize when veterinary assistance is necessary. The following vital signs should be monitored closely:

• Rectal temperature: The temperature should fall between 100 and 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Gum color: The color of the gums is an indicator of blood perfusion and oxygenation. The gums should be a healthy pink color.
• Capillary refill time: This measurement is a reflection of the dog's circulatory health.
• Heart rate: Typically, a Husky's heart rate is around 60 beats per minute. Larger dogs tend to have slower heart rates.
• Respiratory rate: A healthy dog typically breathes between 10 and 30 times per minute. However, panting dogs may breathe up to 200 times per minute.

In Chapter Responding to Emergencies, readers will gain insight into identifying and effectively managing emergency situations.

THE GREAT SERUM RUN: MISSION OF MERCY

In January 1925, Leonhard Seppala accomplished a remarkable feat amidst a severe diphtheria epidemic that had taken over Nome. The situation was dire, as two Eskimo children had already succumbed to the disease and there was a real risk of wiping out the native population, who had little immunity. The city's serum supply had been depleted, and the nearest source was almost 1,000 miles away in Anchorage. Despite the valiant efforts of three unskilled pilots who offered to fly some unreliable planes to Anchorage and then to Nome, the harsh 80 mph winds and blizzards made it an impossible task.

The success of the mission was reliant solely on the Huskies. A serum package was transported from Nenana to Nome, with the guidance of Seppala. A team of 20 highly skilled drivers and over 100 dogs were enlisted for the arduous journey. The task was further complicated by the need to periodically warm the serum, as its effectiveness was uncertain if frozen. To ensure proper insulation, the containers were wrapped in reindeer skin, quilt, and canvas.

In an impressive display of endurance and resilience, a team of dogs led by mushers Charlie Evans and Seppala completed a grueling 658-mile journey through blizzards and waist-deep snowdrifts in just five and a half days. Despite challenging weather conditions, the team persevered through temperatures as low as 62 degrees below zero. Tragically, two dogs perished during the journey, but their determined mushers pressed on, with Evans even taking their place to pull the sled himself. Notably, Seppala drove 340 of those miles, with his 12-year-old lead dog Togo proving to be a surprising standout. Despite a rocky start marked by biting and resistance to handling, Togo ultimately emerged as one of the greatest racing dogs in history.

Togo, while not physically striking, possessed exceptional leadership skills. His remarkable abilities were exemplified during the great Serum Run, which marked his final public appearance. Despite being injured and advanced in age, he successfully led his team to the finish line. Following his retirement, Togo passed away in Poland Spring, Maine in 1929, at the age of 14 or 15. Togo's preserved remains have been on display in various locations, including Harvard's Peabody Museum and the Shelbourne Museum in Vermont. They are currently housed at the Iditarod Headquarters in Wasilla, Alaska, where they can be viewed by interested parties.

The last portion of the serum relay was completed by Gunnar Kasaan, who arrived in Nome on Groundhog Day. Kasaan utilized a team of dogs belonging to Seppala, with Balto serving as the lead dog. Despite Seppala's belief that Balto was not a top-tier dog, Balto proved him wrong.

Balto, previously portrayed in a negative light as a mere freight dog, demonstrated exceptional abilities during a critical situation. When Kasaan became lost on the treacherous ice of the Topkok River, Balto exhibited remarkable scenting skills in 50 mph winds and successfully led the team to safety. Without Balto's intervention, the team would have likely suffered a catastrophic fate.

In the early morning of February 2, 1925, Kasaan arrived in Nome, delivering the much-needed serum to the only physician in the area. Despite his dogs being cold, exhausted, and injured, Kasaan tended to their needs and successfully completed his mission. This event marked the end of the diphtheria epidemic, and it also served as the inspiration for the modern sled race known as the Iditarod. Kasaan later toured with Balto, and the team was eventually sold to a movie producer who made a film about their journey. Unfortunately, the dogs were mistreated and forgotten until a Cleveland businessman, with the help of local school children, purchased them for $2,000. The dogs lived out their lives in peace at the Cleveland Zoo, and Balto was later preserved and displayed at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History upon his passing in 1933.

Carrie M. McLain Memorial Museum

While on his travels in the eastern region, Seppala entrusted some of his animals to Harry Wheeler of Quebec, who subsequently began breeding them. As a result, all Huskies that are currently registered with the AKC can trace their lineage back to this original breeding stock.

Located in New York City's Central Park is a bronze statue of Balto, which was funded by children's penny collections. While some Siberian enthusiasts may have preferred Seppala's cherished Togo to be immortalized, the statue serves as a symbol of the unwavering bravery of all the dogs who participated in the remarkable journey against insurmountable odds. Regardless of whether it is Togo or Balto, the statue stands facing north, forever dreaming of its immortal run in the service of humanity. The inscription on the statue reads, "Dedicated to the indomitable spirit of the sled dogs that relayed anti-toxin 600 miles over rough ice, across treacherous waters, through arctic blizzards from Nenana to the relief of a stricken Nome in the winter of 1925. Endurance. Fidelity. Intelligence."