We are now in full summer mode and that means that we’re not only working on projects around the homestead, but we’re also planning for the coming season and getting ready to launch the Dog Sponsor Program again. We had all our dogs sponsored last season, and we’re so incredibly thankful for that!
This spring and summer we have re-homed a few dogs to homes that better suit their individual personalities and abilities. Rehoming dogs we have raised from pups and love deeply is never easy but it’s always in the best interest of the dogs and all these dogs have moved to close friends and/or local Alaskans that we trust. Example; Wicket went to our good friend Tupper Becker who also sews our amazing sled bags, and Wuta went to his sponsor for the last two years! We love having a chance to see our old team mates, but most importantly it warms our hearts that they are with loving, active families who can give these dogs what they need and want!
We have also added a few dogs to the family. The five Arlo siblings Figment, Jackson, Treason, Tock (see above) and Jip came to us from Hey Moose! Kennel this spring and they’ve adjusted to their new home and family really well. We are very excited about these dogs, especially since they are out of one of the Elements (Oxygen) and grandchildren of Silver/Chicken. Jackson and Figment both were a part of Andy Pace’s Quest team and finished with him in the 2019 Yukon Quest, and the other siblings are showing amazing potential too (they were trained, and extras, in Andy’s team).
As we release the dog sponsor program for this coming season we want to thank every single one of you for your amazing support throughout the years. It means so much to Brent and the rest of the team here at Wild and Free!
If you are interested in sponsoring a dog, check the dogs out here. The dogs that are available to sponsor have a yellow button on the right hand side.
$1000 Sponsorship
This sponsorship is reserved for the “main man” himself, Silver, who is the beginning of the Wild and Free Mushing Kennel. Silver is now 17 years old, but is still the leader of our pack and can always be found roaming “wild and free” in his retirement. As Silvers sponsor you will receive a Silver Hat and Hoodie. Read more about Silver here.
$400 Sponsorship
This sponsorship level is for the race team members that weren’t a part of the 2019 YQ Champion team. These dogs are both the experienced and the up-and-coming athletes – all training to be part of our race teams this coming season. They may not be selected to run each race throughout the race season, but they have more than earned their status and spot on the on the race teams of Wild and Free Mushing.
$250 Sponsorship
This sponsorship level is for;
1) The Retired dogs at the Wild and Free Mushing Kennel. These dogs have gone the distance more than once in their racing careers and have earned the right to live out their retirement mentoring the younger dogs and roaming free around the Kennel.
2) The new Puppies at the Wild and Free Mushing Kennel. These cute little fur balls are what we look forward to every season. They are full of energy and curiosity, and are just starting to experience the world and learning what it is like to be born a sled dog.
$500 Sponsorship
This sponsorship level is for the 2019 Yukon Quest Champion Team – the leaders at the Wild and Free Mushing Kennel. These dogs have what it takes to run 1000mi and do it healthy and happy. Some of the dogs are veterans, and others ran their first races in 2019. No matter what, they have more than earned their status and spot on the race teams of Wild and Free Mushing.
$300 Sponsorship
This sponsorship level is for yearlings and experienced dogs that will be running our second teams in races this coming season. The older, experienced dogs will be leading the way for our young dogs in training, but hopefully also in racing.