ANCHORAGE, Alaska (KTUU) – As the 54th running of the Iditarod Trail comes to a close, it is the last ‘Last Great Race’ for some of the athletes who are now in need of new homes.

Julie St. Louis has dedicated years to finding new homes for retired sled dogs through The August Fund. The organization works to match the dogs with families based on activity levels and lifestyle. St. Louis herself has an Iditarod veteran of her own.

“Jimmy is my sidekick,” St. Louis said. “He’s our spokesdog right now for our organization, and he’s run Iditarod three times. He finished with three different mushers because he was such a good leader.”

The dogs remain active and energetic even after their racing careers end. Many compete for nearly a decade before retirement.

“Even, you know, 11-year-old, 12-year-old retired sled dog, you wouldn’t know it when I bring them out in public and people ask how old,” St. Louis said. “They think they’re puppies sometimes.”

While they may be older, the dogs suited still enjoy everything from skijoring to hiking. St. Louis said the organization works to match each dog with the right family.

“If they want to skijor or, you know, if your kid wants to do a one or two dog mushing or just hiking with your dogs, we have the dogs,” St. Louis said.

McKena Hanson, a Jr. Iditarod musher, said the dogs’ personalities vary as they age. Hanson’s family adopted a dog through the August Fund who McKena says has mellowed out.

“She’s a lot older now. She’s 12, turning 13 next year. And she’s kind of pretty calm. She’s just like a couch potato. She’s definitely calmed down. And she’s enjoying her retired life. They’re really just… I mean, it all depends on the dog’s personality,” Hanson said.

Still, Hanson said keeping the dogs active is important for their well-being.

“They’re very food motivated,” Hanson said. “But as long as taking them out and keeping them active is what’s going to keep them happy and healthy.”

If an owner is unable to keep up with the activity a retired sled dog needs, St. Louis said the dogs they won’t be suited for that household.

“They’re not obviously for everyone. They’re bigger dogs. They’re strong,” St. Louis said.

Like all dogs though, St. Louis said they still enjoy quality time on the couch.

“We also have some that are older and they’re just ready to chill,” St. Louis said. “So, just come talk to us and let us match you up with whatever dog is right for your activity level.”

Though their racing career may be over, every dog deserves a home after their racing career ends.

“Every dog deserves to be happy and deserves to be loved by a family,” Hanson said. “So, it’s just important to keep them happy.”

The August Fund will be at PetSmart in Tikahtnu Commons on Sunday from 3 to 6 p.m. for those interested in adopting a retired sled dog.

Source: alaskasnewssource.com