Huskies – the Heart of Our Operation
We are a small and close-knit husky team: 24 dogs and four people working together on the dogs’ terms. Our huskies are not just working partners to us – they are an essential part of our team and everyday life. Without them, we could not offer these experiences.
We operate in accordance with Finnish animal welfare legislation and keep all vaccination and health records of our dogs up to date. Every dog has the right to ethical and respectful treatment – this is one of the core values of our company and the foundation of everything we do.
A Small Team, Individual Care
Each of our dogs is a unique individual with their own personality and role within the team. Our small pack allows us to truly know our dogs and understand where each one feels most comfortable and confident, without unnecessary stress.
Among our huskies there are both bold and more sensitive personalities, but they all share a love for running. Only dogs that genuinely enjoy sled work take part in the safaris. If a dog shows reluctance or difficulty, it is immediately released from work and the reason is carefully assessed, always with the dog’s wellbeing as the top priority.
Home and Transportation of the Dogs
The dogs’ official home is located in Kuukasjärvi, about 25 kilometres from the lodge. On sledding days, they are transported to the lodge using a vehicle and trailer specifically built for this purpose. Transportation is something the dogs look forward to, as it almost always means they are heading out to run.
Husky safaris depart directly from the shore of the lodge, and the daily trail runs across the frozen Lake Ranuanjärvi.
Training and Equipment
The dogs’ training season begins in autumn, once conditions allow. Training progresses gradually toward the winter running season so that the dogs are in good physical condition and able to enjoy their work when the season begins.
Each dog has its own properly fitted harness. In winter conditions, we use paw protection and other equipment when needed to ensure that running remains comfortable and safe for the dogs.
Respect for the Dog
The wellbeing of our husky pack is cared for throughout the entire year. During the winter season, working days are balanced with regular rest days, which are tracked in a driving logbook.
The dogs have access to a running enclosure where they can move freely together, as well as their own insulated kennels and a calm living environment. Feeding and hydration are planned according to the needs of sled dogs, and the dogs’ condition is monitored daily. Veterinary care is always provided whenever necessary.
Wellbeing All Year Round
The wellbeing of the dog guides all of our actions. Every dog has the right to a safe, low-stress and species-appropriate life. This principle is reflected in our daily choices, our working methods, and the way we treat our dogs – every single day.
We have received rural development funding from the Lapland ELY Centre to develop our dog-related activities. Thanks to this support, we are able to further improve the welfare of our dogs, promote an ethical model of animal care, and develop our business in line with the principles of sustainable development.
Mirka – Musher & Guide
Roge is the determined leader of the dogs. Her presence brings serenity to the other dogs. Roge works as a leader dog in one of the sled teams. Roge is a brave, people-loving dog who also encourages more timid individuals. Roge works closely with the guides when running.
Here are a few introductions to members of our team:
Roge (Siberian Husky)
Roge is the determined leader of the dogs. Her presence brings serenity to the other dogs. Roge works as a leader dog in one of the sled teams. Roge is a brave, people-loving dog who also encourages more timid individuals. Roge works closely with the guides when running.
Ronda (Alaskan Husky)
Ronda is a small, affectionate lap dog. Despite her small size, Ronda loves to run and runs in the middle of the pack. She is a bit shy and needs a guide as a friend. Despite her shyness, She is wildly curious and likes to explore people from a distance, from the lap of her guide.
Reku (Siberian Husky)
Reku is an affectionate attention-seeking dog who needs to be hugged. However, he is an individual who strongly needs routines. Because of this, he quickly gets excited when a new situation arises. For this reason, we try to provide Reku with as routine a working environment as possible. Despite everything, Reku loves running and we want to offer him the opportunity to work on his own terms. Reku loves customers and cuddles and after running he is a calm guy.
Dumle (Alaskan Malamut x Siberian Husky)
Dumle is a gentle giant who can run in all places in the sled. Dumle is often popular with customers because of his fluffiness and great nature. He can do tricks and show them to customers as well. For this reason, Dumle is often involved in Husky meet & greets. When in the sled, he is calm, confident and reliable. In his free time, he is a playful individual who gets along with everyone.
Book a husky ride
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