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New dog added to the Welfare page. Find out about fundraising at
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| Scottish Eye Clinic, Linlithgow on 11th May 2008 |
| 14th April 2008 |
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| Equipment Guide |
Below is a list of equipment required
to run your dog.
~The
safety and comfort of your dogs should be your main consideration
at all times.~ |
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The three-wheeled vehicle
that the dogs pull and the most expensive piece of equipment. At
a later date you may also want to buy a sled. |
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The two-wheeled bike like
item used for light weight training. |
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These must be bought to fit
each individual dog as sizes vary. |
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This is the main line between
the rig and the dogs. It is connected to the harnesses and onto
a carabiner at the rig. This line will vary depending on the number
of dogs that you wish to run, so if you buy a two dog line you will
need a different line to run three dogs etc. |
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This is a strong clip (more
usually used in mountaineering) which is connected to the rig. The
gang line and shock absorber (bungee) are hooked onto it |
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This is a shorter line with
clips on either side. It is attached between the collars of two
dogs so that they run together in the same direction. |
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This is slightly stretchable,
one end is connected onto the carabiner while the other end of it
is attached, approximately one foot away, onto the gang line. In
this way when the dogs begin running the shock absorber takes some
of the impact, allowing the dogs to run forward without there being
a sudden jerk when they take the full weight of the rig and musher. |
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This is a strong line which
is used to hold the rig onto a stationery object while the dogs
are being attached to the gang line and until the musher is ready
to run. It has a special quick release hook. |
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To prevent dogs from getting
injuries to their pads some mushers put boots on them. The decision
on whether to use them or not depends a lot on the conditions underfoot
and the individual dog. |
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This is required if running
more than two dogs. The bag clips onto the rig in front of the musher.
It is used to carry an injured or over exerted dog. A sled requires
a different style of dog bag. |
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You will also need suitable
clothing for yourself, waterproofs, comfortable footwear, etc.
In this photo Ewan shows us what NOT to wear, while Christopher
(the style guru) shows us sensible rally clothing! |
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A method of transport for all of the above as well
as maintenance equipment and spares for the rig will be required.
All of the lines, harnesses etc. will have to be carefully checked
regularly and replaced as necessary.
~The
safety and comfort of your dogs should be your main consideration
at all times.~ |
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