'Raising the bar': Letter to editor of Whistler Question from Craig Beattie
April 1, 2009

In light of the recent article in last week’s Question regarding dogsledding in the valley, we at Canadian want to ensure that everyone understands how we have raised the bar in this industry.

At Canadian Dogsled Adventures our dogs are treated to the best life in the world. We have created an operation that all other companies will need to strive to meet or exceed the best practices that we have set as our standards.

Here are a few points that illustrate how:

Currently we are the only company with an on-site kennel, which allows our dogs to be in their most comfortable environment, always.

We provide large, covered, fenced-in shelters with personal dog houses, tiled floors, and shared interactive living space in the beautiful Callaghan Valley.

Our dogs are very personable. Puppies live in with people to get them accustomed to the general public, and they are intermingled as well — 75 per cent are spayed and neutered to limit population and reduce stress.

On-site medical check-ups, visits and vaccinations are performed regularly by Dr. Hoff, VMD. We are also currently involved in a study with the University of Saskatchewan, Dr. Meghan Smart, PhD, to perfect and optimize the diet required for sled dogs. For example, breakfast is a warm stew of mostly chicken, rice, broth and kibble.

Our handlers live with the dogs to ensure the sociology, psychology and well-being of the dogs is closely monitored. Modifications, adjustments and improvements are constantly being made. We consider ourselves pioneers in the transformation of the classic “working dog” and “musher” to “team” and “coach.” Every dog is as friendly as a house pet but still doing the job of a working dog.

We believe in doggy days off!

Our well-loved composite pack of tough Alaskans and strong Pointer racing dogs were bred for their inherent desire to run with endurance, strength and speed. The dog’s joy and anticipation is displayed by howling/barking and getting extremely excited and hyper to the point that they vibrate (think of the big powder day)!

All of the feedback received from other mushers, industry professionals, vets, etc. has been positive and encouraging. Canadian’s dogsled operation and kennel in the Callaghan is 100 per cent citation-free with the SPCA. LAURA LAVIGNE, SPCA, IS HAPPY TO ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS at llavigne@spca.bc.ca

At Canadian Dogsled Adventures, we have gone to great efforts and large expense to put our company ahead of the “pack.” If you have a question about our practices we invite you to come see the kennels and speak with our team, or better yet come out on one of our tours and experience our custom-built dogsled single track that winds through the old-growth forest to Alexander Falls.

Craig Beattie
General Manager
Canadian Snowmobile and Canadian Dogsled Adventures Ltd.
Whistler