Dog sledding is expensive. If I didn't get the opportunity to drive 400 sleds a year loaded with people from around the world, I don't think I would be able to afford to take my family for a dog sledding trip. The experience does not fit into every family's budget, and we understand.
So why is it so expensive? The main reason is because the dogs require care year round. Snowmobiles can be stored in a garage for the summer without maintenance costs, but dogs have daily needs that must be met.
- They eat everyday.
- They drink everyday.
- They create waste everyday.
- Some of them have medication requirements everyday.
A caring person must be on hand to handle these needs everyday.
Below is a chart that shows where the money goes from each sled ride. If you click a section of the pie, it tells you how many dollars from each sled ride are allocated to that expense.
- Dog Food: $45.
- Kennel Lease: $42.
- Salaried (year round) Employees: $40.
- Seasonal Employees: $30.
- Taxes: $19.
- Vet Care: $10.
- Trail Lease: $7.
- Insurance: $6.
The best way to help in the care of the dogs is to go for a ride. If you don't come out for a ride, the dogs will likely not go for a run at that time. Going for a run is their favorite thing in the world to do (other than eat!). So, make a reservation, and come on out to make the dogs happy and provide funding for their care.
