Howl’s Tribute

He was a "dog's dog".

He never begged for attention or food, he never sucked up to anyone for anything - not that he wasn't an affectionate and loving dog, but he got it all on his terms. He was as proud an animal as they come.

He knew his place in the universe and loved being in it. He carried himself with extreme dignity - heck, even we called him Mr. Howl. Although he was our first Canadian Champion dog, Howl was not at home in a ring - it was on the trail that he shined. He was a 'professional' sled dog. He took his job seriously and did it exceedingly well. 

He was one of the dogs that made the switch with me from sprint racing to distance racing. He was on my winning 6-dog sprint team in the mid 90's, my winning Gold Rush Trail 54 mile race team, my 2000 Iditarod team - and everything in between. He led our teams for many miles in the beginning and was one of the key players in our 4th place Race to the Sky finish. He was a sire of Champion and Iditarod finishing dogs and his offspring are always evident in our dog teams.

He died like he lived - on his terms - never showing weakness, just leaving when he felt it was his time.

When we meet again there will be no tearful greetings and overt displays, just a rejoining of souls and hearts. 'Till then Mr. Howl.

Karen