REFLECTIONS
Reflections is about those moments in our lives that make an impact on how we think, act and view the world around us.
Here, I will share some of those instrumental moments in MUSHING that altered my life.
Here, I will share some of those instrumental moments in MUSHING that altered my life.
Bergen,RIP
( Brown Dog at Lead)
Yesterday, July 10th,2024, Bergen passed on at the age of 14 years.
Bergen was a wonderful dog, companion and Leader.
She ran Lead in many of my races and always did a great job with enthusiasm and determination!
She was well liked by all in the kennel and was always one of the first to welcome visitors.
Her desire to live was strong until the end when her cancer finally took her from us.
She loved Blue and would always go over to visit him when loose.
The only distraction at lead would be when a squirrel would run cross he trail in front of the team.
She ran after them on several occasions. But, would be quick to come back on the trail when called to do so.
She as the mother of Phil also a great Leader and stud.
Her Grand Daughter, Nepal, was one of the main leaders on Remy Costa's winning team at the 2014 Wyoming Stage Stop Race and finishing 2nd at the 2024 Rondy and ONAC.
RIP by beautiful girl!
Thank You Mother Earth!
Thank you Mother Earth for allowing me to enjoy the actions of Nature!
The peacefulness of life here in the Norther Forest where you just accept life as it is and don't stress about what could be.
Allow Mother Nature to protect you and live your life in peace.
For what ever reason She looks after me!
Tonight coming home from a visit with dear friends it was storming with lightning and heavy rain, it subsided for me to safe travel home on ATV, not getting wet.
Then arriving home, sat outside listening to the rain, watching the moths fluttering around the light on the porch.
A Frog croaking in the background and enjoying the the tranquillity of the forest.
Life can be so simple!!
The peacefulness of life here in the Norther Forest where you just accept life as it is and don't stress about what could be.
Allow Mother Nature to protect you and live your life in peace.
For what ever reason She looks after me!
Tonight coming home from a visit with dear friends it was storming with lightning and heavy rain, it subsided for me to safe travel home on ATV, not getting wet.
Then arriving home, sat outside listening to the rain, watching the moths fluttering around the light on the porch.
A Frog croaking in the background and enjoying the the tranquillity of the forest.
Life can be so simple!!
Olive
Although, Olive was here for only 4 years, her impact on me was memorable.
Olive was a Leader and had many races before arriving here.
Shortly after her arrival she reinjured her wrist from an undisclosed previous injury.
She recovered from her injury after a couple of years not running.
Even though it was discovered that she would never run in a team again, she recovered and had a good life here.
Olive loved to dig and her previous wrist injury didn't detour her from her excavating.
She was a sweetheart, gentile and loving.
She loved to talk after eating and with Hok'ee would get all the kennel singing!
She passed away quickly, despite our efforts to save her.
She was with us until the end in the chalet with us beside her.
She knew she was loved right up to the end.
She will now be with her other kennel mates that have passed.
Farewell Olive, we will meet again.
RIP Olive (November 22, 2023)
Olive was a Leader and had many races before arriving here.
Shortly after her arrival she reinjured her wrist from an undisclosed previous injury.
She recovered from her injury after a couple of years not running.
Even though it was discovered that she would never run in a team again, she recovered and had a good life here.
Olive loved to dig and her previous wrist injury didn't detour her from her excavating.
She was a sweetheart, gentile and loving.
She loved to talk after eating and with Hok'ee would get all the kennel singing!
She passed away quickly, despite our efforts to save her.
She was with us until the end in the chalet with us beside her.
She knew she was loved right up to the end.
She will now be with her other kennel mates that have passed.
Farewell Olive, we will meet again.
RIP Olive (November 22, 2023)
"The Solitude, Here In The Northern Forest!"
I have had the privilege to be Mushing/Racing for over 50 years.
Not everyone will make the sacrifices, the devotion it takes to pursue ones dreams.
After leaving my job (over 30 years), family, friends and civilization, I have spent over 25 years here in the forest with Nature and my only companions my canine athletes/family.
Life living here in isolation is not an easy life. It is filled with many challenges, heartbreak at times loneliness. But, this is all balanced with the joy of truly experiencing life.
The joy experiencing birth of puppies, your first interaction with them bonding at birth, seeing them grow up and mature into the the athletes they are.
The daily interaction with them through Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Looking after their daily needs!
The excitement of the first hookup in the Fall and the weekly planned schedule of conditioning, developing the team making sure each athlete is in a position enabling them to be their best.
Then the hardship of parting with them when they pass away.
Life here with Sled Dogs is from birth to death.
Life as a Musher is emotionally rewarding and also heartbreaking.
For most of my life I have relied on myself.
But, as I get older (last year turning 81) I require outside help.
To acquire this I offer a Handler/Trainee Program for aspiring young mushers to come here for 6 months and learn what the mushing life is all about.
This is a tutoring program that at times can mundane, exciting and an opportunity for individuals to discover themselves away from the crazy world outside the forest (civilization/society).
All this with the benefit of bonding with my canine family.
If through your stay here I feel you are competent to handle a small team on your own, you will be granted with the privilege.
You have to earn this privilege it is not a given right.
I will never sacrifice the health and wellbeing of my canine family to satisfy someone else's whim.
This might sound harsh, but put yourself in my mukluks. Would you be any different?
If you are looking to check another item off your bucket list, looking for 5 star lodging and meals, someone to entertain you; this is not the place for you!
You live where I live, you eat what I eat!
If you look to criticisme, STOP and look in a mirror and work on yourself.
If you are this type of person: don't waist your time our mine.
My life is now getting sort and I want to enjoy every minute of it!
However, if you are serious about learning about the mushing lifestyle and possibly pursuing it, then contact me and let see if we can be of mutual benefit where we both win.
This is a commitment not to be taken lightly.
Not everyone will make the sacrifices, the devotion it takes to pursue ones dreams.
After leaving my job (over 30 years), family, friends and civilization, I have spent over 25 years here in the forest with Nature and my only companions my canine athletes/family.
Life living here in isolation is not an easy life. It is filled with many challenges, heartbreak at times loneliness. But, this is all balanced with the joy of truly experiencing life.
The joy experiencing birth of puppies, your first interaction with them bonding at birth, seeing them grow up and mature into the the athletes they are.
The daily interaction with them through Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter. Looking after their daily needs!
The excitement of the first hookup in the Fall and the weekly planned schedule of conditioning, developing the team making sure each athlete is in a position enabling them to be their best.
Then the hardship of parting with them when they pass away.
Life here with Sled Dogs is from birth to death.
Life as a Musher is emotionally rewarding and also heartbreaking.
For most of my life I have relied on myself.
But, as I get older (last year turning 81) I require outside help.
To acquire this I offer a Handler/Trainee Program for aspiring young mushers to come here for 6 months and learn what the mushing life is all about.
This is a tutoring program that at times can mundane, exciting and an opportunity for individuals to discover themselves away from the crazy world outside the forest (civilization/society).
All this with the benefit of bonding with my canine family.
If through your stay here I feel you are competent to handle a small team on your own, you will be granted with the privilege.
You have to earn this privilege it is not a given right.
I will never sacrifice the health and wellbeing of my canine family to satisfy someone else's whim.
This might sound harsh, but put yourself in my mukluks. Would you be any different?
If you are looking to check another item off your bucket list, looking for 5 star lodging and meals, someone to entertain you; this is not the place for you!
You live where I live, you eat what I eat!
If you look to criticisme, STOP and look in a mirror and work on yourself.
If you are this type of person: don't waist your time our mine.
My life is now getting sort and I want to enjoy every minute of it!
However, if you are serious about learning about the mushing lifestyle and possibly pursuing it, then contact me and let see if we can be of mutual benefit where we both win.
This is a commitment not to be taken lightly.
LEGACY
We come into this world with no material possessions and we leave with the same!
Our Legacy lives on through our actions and deeds!
We come into this world with no material possessions and we leave with the same!
Our Legacy lives on through our actions and deeds!
MY SPIRIT WILL LIVE ON!
When my spirit leaves my earthly shell it will live on.
When you see the Eagle soaring, hear the Raven calling and the Wolves singing: it's my Spirit saying that you are never alone here in the Northern Forest!
When my spirit leaves my earthly shell it will live on.
When you see the Eagle soaring, hear the Raven calling and the Wolves singing: it's my Spirit saying that you are never alone here in the Northern Forest!
The Magical Moment In The Nature!
Tonight was one of those nights!
I came home from a wonderful night outing with some of my closest friends.
When I came home, I was greeted by one of my canines family (Hok'ee), he spoke to me and welcomed me home.
I sat on my ATV, lit up a cigarillo, sat back and became one with my environment.
Quietly, peacefully, I listened to the sounds of the forest and meditated.
The sound of silence was deafening in the darkness of night.
There was not a slight breath of wind, no rustle of the trees, no movement in the forest.
A cloudy night with only the natural light here in the deep solitude of Nature!
Although some would think this the strange being of loneliness.
But no, it is solitude of being with one with the forest.
I am afraid this is a peacefulness that would be hard to share, with only that special person.
In the darkness, I can feel the tranquility of being alone.
But really, I am not alone.
I am part of the Nature that surrounds me.
I am at peace!
I am free!
I am the most fortunate person alive!
I love my life and comfort of my natural surroundings of the Northern Forest!
For tonight, I am at peace with myself.
Oh, what a wonderful life I have.
Good night.....
I came home from a wonderful night outing with some of my closest friends.
When I came home, I was greeted by one of my canines family (Hok'ee), he spoke to me and welcomed me home.
I sat on my ATV, lit up a cigarillo, sat back and became one with my environment.
Quietly, peacefully, I listened to the sounds of the forest and meditated.
The sound of silence was deafening in the darkness of night.
There was not a slight breath of wind, no rustle of the trees, no movement in the forest.
A cloudy night with only the natural light here in the deep solitude of Nature!
Although some would think this the strange being of loneliness.
But no, it is solitude of being with one with the forest.
I am afraid this is a peacefulness that would be hard to share, with only that special person.
In the darkness, I can feel the tranquility of being alone.
But really, I am not alone.
I am part of the Nature that surrounds me.
I am at peace!
I am free!
I am the most fortunate person alive!
I love my life and comfort of my natural surroundings of the Northern Forest!
For tonight, I am at peace with myself.
Oh, what a wonderful life I have.
Good night.....
THERE IS SOMETHING TO SAY ABOUT BEING ALONE IN THE FOREST!
Yes, being alone in the forest enjoying the sound of the wind gently rustling through the trees.
The birds singing.
Butterflies fluttering around and landing on you taking that moment of being one with nature.
Reflecting on how lucky you are.
Ah, the peace and serenity of life, it is not complicated!
Yes, being alone in the forest enjoying the sound of the wind gently rustling through the trees.
The birds singing.
Butterflies fluttering around and landing on you taking that moment of being one with nature.
Reflecting on how lucky you are.
Ah, the peace and serenity of life, it is not complicated!
LOUIS (07/2015-06/08/2021)
Louis was a very special dog to me and it is difficult to come to grips with his loss.
However, this is a tribute to his life that I was fortunate to share.
Louis was a very quiet puppy never in the forefront always quietly observing what was happening.
However, that all changed once to got hooked up to run!
Right from his first hookup, he was dynamic, energetic and driven to be a SUPPER STAR!
Below you will see a video of his first run with Lilly, his sister.
Last season he displayed his full potential as an incredible Leader and even teaching his siblings Lloyd and Lance to run lead.
He loved to run lead and to date my best Male Leader!
In the kennel he was a lover!
Very gentle and loving attention, giving as well as receiving.
You are missed by your teammates especially Pippin your neighbor and especially me.
Thank you for all the great memories and sharing your life with me.
RIP LOUIS.
However, this is a tribute to his life that I was fortunate to share.
Louis was a very quiet puppy never in the forefront always quietly observing what was happening.
However, that all changed once to got hooked up to run!
Right from his first hookup, he was dynamic, energetic and driven to be a SUPPER STAR!
Below you will see a video of his first run with Lilly, his sister.
Last season he displayed his full potential as an incredible Leader and even teaching his siblings Lloyd and Lance to run lead.
He loved to run lead and to date my best Male Leader!
In the kennel he was a lover!
Very gentle and loving attention, giving as well as receiving.
You are missed by your teammates especially Pippin your neighbor and especially me.
Thank you for all the great memories and sharing your life with me.
RIP LOUIS.
INDIGO (05/2010-12/18/2020)
Last night Indigo passed away in her sleep meeting a peaceful end of her life.
Indigo came here when she was 5 months old and spent her whole life running mostly at Lead, training many Leaders and producing the best litter of puppies Miortuk Kennel has ever produced with Blue.
We enjoyed many miles running together and quiet times in the kennel.
Indigo was a very gentle/loving dog and all business Leading the team.
She was the Matriarch and respected by all Canine Family here.
She is going to dearly missed.
She is now running with all her kennel mates that passed before her.
Love you!
Until we see again.
Indigo came here when she was 5 months old and spent her whole life running mostly at Lead, training many Leaders and producing the best litter of puppies Miortuk Kennel has ever produced with Blue.
We enjoyed many miles running together and quiet times in the kennel.
Indigo was a very gentle/loving dog and all business Leading the team.
She was the Matriarch and respected by all Canine Family here.
She is going to dearly missed.
She is now running with all her kennel mates that passed before her.
Love you!
Until we see again.
FILLE (04/2009-6/04/2018)
It Never Gets Easier!
Yesterday the forest wept the passing of my beloved Fille!
A s I sit here in silence morning the loss of this sweet girl, I reflect on the great times we shared together.
Fille was a gentle sole that loved here life here with her teammates and running with them.
Fille always gave 100% when running no mater what position in the team.
Her gentle nature made her a perfect dog to team with rambunctious youngsters learning the ways of teamwork. Her patience aided in training these pups and teaching them about team behavior.
She was always happy to see you and get affection as she would stand on her hind legs with her front legs resting gently on your chest looking up to you with her loving eyes.
After running a great season, she within the last couple of weeks (due to a stroke) lost her mobility which declined rapidly.
Even then, she displayed her loving nature never complaining about her handicap.
She is now with her fellow teammates that passed before her and waiting for my coming to enjoy our running together.
You are missed sweet Fille and until we meet again.
RIP
A s I sit here in silence morning the loss of this sweet girl, I reflect on the great times we shared together.
Fille was a gentle sole that loved here life here with her teammates and running with them.
Fille always gave 100% when running no mater what position in the team.
Her gentle nature made her a perfect dog to team with rambunctious youngsters learning the ways of teamwork. Her patience aided in training these pups and teaching them about team behavior.
She was always happy to see you and get affection as she would stand on her hind legs with her front legs resting gently on your chest looking up to you with her loving eyes.
After running a great season, she within the last couple of weeks (due to a stroke) lost her mobility which declined rapidly.
Even then, she displayed her loving nature never complaining about her handicap.
She is now with her fellow teammates that passed before her and waiting for my coming to enjoy our running together.
You are missed sweet Fille and until we meet again.
RIP
COBALT (04/2009-07/12/2016)
Yesterday, I lost another good friend, companion and a great Leader.
Cobalt died of poisoning from a toad she came into contact with.
The whole experience lasted less than one hour.
Cobalt came here in the Fall of 2010 from the kennel of Serge Pomerleau.
She was a natural leader and relished running there with any other team mate.
Cobalt was always a happy dog and enjoyed sitting on top of her house with me sitting next to her petting her.
One of my fondest memories of her was when she was in labour having her first litter.
The puppy pen/whelping house is right next to a window in the chalet.
Cobalt was overdue and having much discomfort when she was in labour and would come to the window and complain to me.
I would reassure her that I was here and all would be okay.
She would then calm down and come back to the window when the next contraction happened.
This routine continued until she had her first puppy.
The above photos were taken of her last runs here in the Spring.
RIP my lovely Cobalt.....
Cobalt died of poisoning from a toad she came into contact with.
The whole experience lasted less than one hour.
Cobalt came here in the Fall of 2010 from the kennel of Serge Pomerleau.
She was a natural leader and relished running there with any other team mate.
Cobalt was always a happy dog and enjoyed sitting on top of her house with me sitting next to her petting her.
One of my fondest memories of her was when she was in labour having her first litter.
The puppy pen/whelping house is right next to a window in the chalet.
Cobalt was overdue and having much discomfort when she was in labour and would come to the window and complain to me.
I would reassure her that I was here and all would be okay.
She would then calm down and come back to the window when the next contraction happened.
This routine continued until she had her first puppy.
The above photos were taken of her last runs here in the Spring.
RIP my lovely Cobalt.....
MAX (8/11/2005-03/04/2016)
It is a sad day here at Miortuk as we all mourn the passing of a Great Friend!
Max passed away last night in his sleep.
He was a very special dog who touched many people with his winning personality.
He was a Leader in many respects: in the kennel with his comrades, at the races/training and teaching young dogs to be Sled Dogs.
He was very special to me, as he gave me the leadership that I needed to pursue my adventures in the Open Class Sprint World.
Without him none of this would have been possible.
Max loved his one on one time with whomever wanted to pet him and bathing in the Sun on top of his house.
Max was always enthusiastic to run and his enthusiasm carried through the rest of his team mates.
Even up to last week, he was Leading teams of puppies and teaching them to be Sled Dogs.
RIP, My special friend.
Someday, we will again run together......
Max passed away last night in his sleep.
He was a very special dog who touched many people with his winning personality.
He was a Leader in many respects: in the kennel with his comrades, at the races/training and teaching young dogs to be Sled Dogs.
He was very special to me, as he gave me the leadership that I needed to pursue my adventures in the Open Class Sprint World.
Without him none of this would have been possible.
Max loved his one on one time with whomever wanted to pet him and bathing in the Sun on top of his house.
Max was always enthusiastic to run and his enthusiasm carried through the rest of his team mates.
Even up to last week, he was Leading teams of puppies and teaching them to be Sled Dogs.
RIP, My special friend.
Someday, we will again run together......
Dreams
Dreams are the manifestations of our inner spirit and only we can make them happen.
True Lover
Is that person that supports our dreams unconditionally!
Mistakes
Mistakes in life: yes, we have all made a few.
But, the biggest mistake you can ever make is giving up on "your dreams" for someone else!
But, the biggest mistake you can ever make is giving up on "your dreams" for someone else!
Change
Change is a fact of life, whether we like it or not.
It is inevitable!
We have a choice to either embrace it or fear it.
It is said:" If we always do the same as we always have , the results will always be the same!"
So, here at Miortuk, I am always open to changes in our training, nutrition and our breeding programs.
The goal is to improve the quality of life for our canine family/athletes so they can perform to the best of their ability.
Change here is to be embraced!
It gives meaning to life and the enjoyment of evaluating accomplishments and failures.
Accomplishments are gratifying and failures are the motivation for future change.
Never be satisfied with the status quo!
It is inevitable!
We have a choice to either embrace it or fear it.
It is said:" If we always do the same as we always have , the results will always be the same!"
So, here at Miortuk, I am always open to changes in our training, nutrition and our breeding programs.
The goal is to improve the quality of life for our canine family/athletes so they can perform to the best of their ability.
Change here is to be embraced!
It gives meaning to life and the enjoyment of evaluating accomplishments and failures.
Accomplishments are gratifying and failures are the motivation for future change.
Never be satisfied with the status quo!
EMOTIONS
As I see it, there are three main emotions.
Love & Hate, although the opposites, they share a common element.
Feelings!
The third is Indifference!
This is the worst as it is void of feelings!
As I see it, there are three main emotions.
Love & Hate, although the opposites, they share a common element.
Feelings!
The third is Indifference!
This is the worst as it is void of feelings!
04/13/2014
Sometimes in our lives all the stars are inline and we enjoy the peace and serenity of life's offerings.
This is one of those times for me that all is well with my world!
Sometimes in our lives all the stars are inline and we enjoy the peace and serenity of life's offerings.
This is one of those times for me that all is well with my world!
Dalai Lama
Mentally, physically and emotionally we are the same. We each have the potential to good and bad and to be overcome by disturbing emotions such as anger, fear, hatred, suspicion and greed. These emotions can be the cause of many problems. On the other hand if you cultivate loving kindness, compassion and concern for others, there will be no room for anger, hatred and jealousy.
"Today Is A very Sad Day Here With The Passing Of Teal!"
This morning Teal passed away (02/09/2015) leaving us with very heavy hearts in mourning a sweet, love able girl!
Teal was a real sweetheart and a fantastic sled dog. She always gave 100% in the team.
She was always happy to please and loved to run.
When Teal first came here she was very shy. But after a lot of quality time spent with her, she became the go to dog for the handlers and visitors here. In her own quiet way, she one over the hearts of all that met her.
This always one of the hardest parts of dog mushing, saying goodbye to one of our family.
She passed away showing no pain lying in her dog house after the morning watering and just before this mornings run.
I will miss her very much!
RIP sweetheart!
Teal was a real sweetheart and a fantastic sled dog. She always gave 100% in the team.
She was always happy to please and loved to run.
When Teal first came here she was very shy. But after a lot of quality time spent with her, she became the go to dog for the handlers and visitors here. In her own quiet way, she one over the hearts of all that met her.
This always one of the hardest parts of dog mushing, saying goodbye to one of our family.
She passed away showing no pain lying in her dog house after the morning watering and just before this mornings run.
I will miss her very much!
RIP sweetheart!
"The Passing Of A Great Companion & Loyal Friend!"
It is with a heavy heart that I announce the passing of Charlot!
He was suffering the last couple of years with hip problems that got progressively worse to the point where he would lose his balance & collapse. He was having problems getting up the stairs as well as going down. His quality of life was suffering & was unable to do the things he enjoyed the most. It was a very difficult decision for me to make, after 6 months of pondering, he was euthanized on the 6th of September, 2013. This was 8 years after the passing (almost to the date) of his first owner & my best friend, Alain Alary.
Charlot from a young puppy loved to play with rocks where he would bat them his front paws like he was playing soccer. He loved to show all all visitors his amazing ability & control of his rock. Every night he would bring into the basement entrance his latest "pet rock" which he would survey every time he came in. Using this method, he always had stones to play with in the Winter when the snow came.
He also loved to run with me, alongside or in front, while I was driving an ATV or Skidoo. When he got tired of running, he would hitch a ride on the vehicle with me.
He loved to swim, chase skunks & squirrels.
He loved children & girls, not so much men.
He was a great judge of character with people, a characteristic I always adhered too. He was never wrong on his judgement!
He was a great guard dog, protecting the chalet, the kennel and me.
I will always remember our last walk with the ATV on the morning of his passing.
The chalet is very quiet & lonely without him.
But, now he is playing with Alain.
RIP CHARLOT!
He was suffering the last couple of years with hip problems that got progressively worse to the point where he would lose his balance & collapse. He was having problems getting up the stairs as well as going down. His quality of life was suffering & was unable to do the things he enjoyed the most. It was a very difficult decision for me to make, after 6 months of pondering, he was euthanized on the 6th of September, 2013. This was 8 years after the passing (almost to the date) of his first owner & my best friend, Alain Alary.
Charlot from a young puppy loved to play with rocks where he would bat them his front paws like he was playing soccer. He loved to show all all visitors his amazing ability & control of his rock. Every night he would bring into the basement entrance his latest "pet rock" which he would survey every time he came in. Using this method, he always had stones to play with in the Winter when the snow came.
He also loved to run with me, alongside or in front, while I was driving an ATV or Skidoo. When he got tired of running, he would hitch a ride on the vehicle with me.
He loved to swim, chase skunks & squirrels.
He loved children & girls, not so much men.
He was a great judge of character with people, a characteristic I always adhered too. He was never wrong on his judgement!
He was a great guard dog, protecting the chalet, the kennel and me.
I will always remember our last walk with the ATV on the morning of his passing.
The chalet is very quiet & lonely without him.
But, now he is playing with Alain.
RIP CHARLOT!
NANOOK
The worst part of dog mushing is saying goodbye to one of your trusted friends.
That is the case today with the passing of Nanook to an aggressive form of liver cancer. Nanook is the white dog in the photo running lead with her brother Leo.
However, as a tribute to her I am here celebrating her life with me & her team mates.
Nanook was born right here at Miortuk Kennel and spent her whole life living here with her companions in the northern forest of Quebec.
Nanook was always a sweet loving dog as well as an excellent Gee/Haw Leader. She loved to run up front leading her teammates right up to two weeks before her passing.
She was very respected by her teammates in the kennel and after running she would be set free to return to her house and she would slowly walk by the other dogs and demand their patronage. She would not take any crap from other dogs running lead with her & would get annoyed and bark if the other dogs were not running fast enough for her.
Nanook & her brother Leo were a great pair at lead and when stopped showed sibling rivalry to get going again.
Nanook felt she was able to sniff other dogs running next to her, however, she would not tolerate them to do the same.
She was always special to me & I loved to stroke her soft white ears & run my fingers over her forehead & eyes.
My heat breaks just thinking of her.
I was with her to the end!
Goodbye my friend, some day we will run together again!
That is the case today with the passing of Nanook to an aggressive form of liver cancer. Nanook is the white dog in the photo running lead with her brother Leo.
However, as a tribute to her I am here celebrating her life with me & her team mates.
Nanook was born right here at Miortuk Kennel and spent her whole life living here with her companions in the northern forest of Quebec.
Nanook was always a sweet loving dog as well as an excellent Gee/Haw Leader. She loved to run up front leading her teammates right up to two weeks before her passing.
She was very respected by her teammates in the kennel and after running she would be set free to return to her house and she would slowly walk by the other dogs and demand their patronage. She would not take any crap from other dogs running lead with her & would get annoyed and bark if the other dogs were not running fast enough for her.
Nanook & her brother Leo were a great pair at lead and when stopped showed sibling rivalry to get going again.
Nanook felt she was able to sniff other dogs running next to her, however, she would not tolerate them to do the same.
She was always special to me & I loved to stroke her soft white ears & run my fingers over her forehead & eyes.
My heat breaks just thinking of her.
I was with her to the end!
Goodbye my friend, some day we will run together again!
" WHY I LIVE IN THE FOREST WITH NATURE AND ANIMALS INSTEAD OF HUMANS!"
www.consumerfreedom.com
The above website three times a year rate the charities on how they distribute donations received.
The Humane Society Of United States (affiliate Humane Society International) just received a "D" rating (A being the best & D the worst) on how these funds were spent. According to the report 49% of funds collected go to advertising & promotion to raise donations and less than1% goes to actual Animal Care Organizations. It must be understood that this organization has no affiliation with local Humane Societies.
Also PETA receives only a "C" rating on the distribution of their funds. According to news media, PETA is now starting a "PORN" site that will include insertions of animal crulity during the porn programming. All this to raise more donations to their organization.
The sad part of all this is the some Government Agencies rely on these organizations to draft new laws for the welfare & protection of Animals. This being the case it brings to question the competency of these officials to govern decisions on our behalf!
WHERE HAS HUMAN SANITY & COMMON SENSE GONE!
Now you know why I respect animals more than humans and choose to live in the forest isolated from the insanity of civilization!
The above website three times a year rate the charities on how they distribute donations received.
The Humane Society Of United States (affiliate Humane Society International) just received a "D" rating (A being the best & D the worst) on how these funds were spent. According to the report 49% of funds collected go to advertising & promotion to raise donations and less than1% goes to actual Animal Care Organizations. It must be understood that this organization has no affiliation with local Humane Societies.
Also PETA receives only a "C" rating on the distribution of their funds. According to news media, PETA is now starting a "PORN" site that will include insertions of animal crulity during the porn programming. All this to raise more donations to their organization.
The sad part of all this is the some Government Agencies rely on these organizations to draft new laws for the welfare & protection of Animals. This being the case it brings to question the competency of these officials to govern decisions on our behalf!
WHERE HAS HUMAN SANITY & COMMON SENSE GONE!
Now you know why I respect animals more than humans and choose to live in the forest isolated from the insanity of civilization!
"HOW FORTUNATE WE ARE!"
When we reflect on the those less fortunate than us , especially in light of the current disaster in Japan with the Earthquake and subsequent Tsunami, we have to realize how truly fortunate we are!
Why can't we all just get along with each other and appreciate our differences!
Bickering between neighbors is so petty, immature and such a waste of time!
History has proven this!
Let us all just live in peace!
Anything else is such a waste of time!
Why can't we all just get along with each other and appreciate our differences!
Bickering between neighbors is so petty, immature and such a waste of time!
History has proven this!
Let us all just live in peace!
Anything else is such a waste of time!
"THE SILENT MAJORITY!"
The silent majority has been silent too long. It's time we tell that one or two who scream loud enough to be heard that the vast majority doesn't care what they want!
BUTCH
It is with heavy heart that I announce the passing of Butch on April 6,2011.
Butch was a wonderful team mate & companion. He was a member of one of the first litters I had here at lac Charland.
He was one of the best Wheel Dogs that I have had the privileged of running. He never missed a run or was ever dropped in a race. He trained up to last Fall and through his life had trained many other dogs to run Wheel.
He was a dog that always performed his tasks in the team. He was an exceptionally smooth mover and very efficient in his stride. He never seemed to tire.
He loved his attention and was always happy to greet visitors.
I will miss seeing those beautiful blue eyes looking up at me!
Butch was a wonderful team mate & companion. He was a member of one of the first litters I had here at lac Charland.
He was one of the best Wheel Dogs that I have had the privileged of running. He never missed a run or was ever dropped in a race. He trained up to last Fall and through his life had trained many other dogs to run Wheel.
He was a dog that always performed his tasks in the team. He was an exceptionally smooth mover and very efficient in his stride. He never seemed to tire.
He loved his attention and was always happy to greet visitors.
I will miss seeing those beautiful blue eyes looking up at me!
AURORA
We here at Miortuk celebrate the life of Aurora who passed away today! (Seen here leading the team at the age of 12, in the Fall of 2007)
Aurora was an exceptional dog who was my companion/friend, trusted leader and the boss of the kennel.
She was the dominate Alpha dog in the kennel and respected by all her kennel mates through her final days.
Aurora was born in Brampton, Ontario. Her mother was Missy (Runyan/Sutherland) and father was Jerry(McEwen).
She came from a long line of leaders on both sides of here pedigree and she upheld the tradition.
As pup, you could see here Alpha attitude and started leading teams at the age of 6 months.
"SHE WAS A NATURAL LEADER"
She was instrumental in training all of my current leaders.
She was only happy at the lead position and showed her displeasure if she wasn't running there. Aurora was a most reliable gee/haw leader, never missing a command.
One example was on a training run and a plow truck had come and plowed in the turn into our return loop. The snow bank was at least 4 foot high and it had totally blocked the entrance to the loop. I stopped the team on the plowed road and called Aurora to "GEE". She turned her head and looked at me, then the snow bank and then back at me, questioning my command. I called back, " Aurora-Gee". Aurora then made a right angled turn and lead the 12 dog team up & over the snow bank and onto the trail on the other side.
THAT WAS THE QUALITY OF A LEADER SHE WAS!!!
We shared many trails and in her life ran over 10,000 running miles leading my teams. She was never injured and never dropped in a race.
AURORA WAS A SUPER STAR!
She will be sadly missed and a piece of my heart has gone with her.
May 1995 to August 30th, 2010
ALOAK
Aloak was my first husky( Siberian Husky ). He was a remarkable dog earning his Companion Dog Degree before he was a year old & in only 4 obedience trials.
But, although he was great sled dog, he was best known for his exploits in Weight Pulling Contests.
His last pull at the age of 12 was his most memorable pull.
For years he had been the champion of weight pull contests at the Hamilton , Ontario Sled Dog Races and had a large following of admirers/supporters that would come each year to cheer him on. His last pull was no exception!
Weight Pulling Contests were open to all dogs. The contest rules were easy: the dog that pulled the most weight on a sled the required distance won the event. After every round of a successful pull more weight was added to the sled. Each dog was eliminated if they couldn't make the pull in that round until you had the last dog pulling the most weight.
Aloak like normal was into the final round against his best competitor, Igor, a beautiful Chocolate Brown Siberian Husky.
Aloak( was the Classic Black/White, Blue eyed Siberian Husky) and Igor entered their final pull. Igor went first and could not break the weighted sled loose and was out of the competition depending on Aloaks pull.
I would stand at the finish line and call Aloak to "COME' and then he would start his pull.
After I called him, he bent down and with all his strength tried to break the sled loose from the snows icy grip.
Finally with all his determination, the sled started to move!
Slowly he made his way to the finish line.
Due the number of pulls through the contest the painted finish line was wiped out, so before the last pull a new finish line was painted on the snow.
Aloak, who was partially bind at this time due to cataracts, realized something was different and stopped at the finish line to investigate the change and thus stopped his pull before he crossed the line.
This meant if he was going to win the competition, he had restart his pull from that point and cross the line.
I bent down in front of him and quietly called his name and said " Aloak come."
He bent down again, with great determination, broke the sled loose for the second time and crossed the finish line.
His supporter were ecstatic and especially when I announced that was his last pull as he was going into retirement.
Aloak made an impact on me and what I looked for in all the great sled dogs the followed him.
LOYALTY, DESIRE TO PLEASE and that DONT GIVE UP ATTITUDE!
ALOAK had a great impact on my life and my philosophy of life!
But, although he was great sled dog, he was best known for his exploits in Weight Pulling Contests.
His last pull at the age of 12 was his most memorable pull.
For years he had been the champion of weight pull contests at the Hamilton , Ontario Sled Dog Races and had a large following of admirers/supporters that would come each year to cheer him on. His last pull was no exception!
Weight Pulling Contests were open to all dogs. The contest rules were easy: the dog that pulled the most weight on a sled the required distance won the event. After every round of a successful pull more weight was added to the sled. Each dog was eliminated if they couldn't make the pull in that round until you had the last dog pulling the most weight.
Aloak like normal was into the final round against his best competitor, Igor, a beautiful Chocolate Brown Siberian Husky.
Aloak( was the Classic Black/White, Blue eyed Siberian Husky) and Igor entered their final pull. Igor went first and could not break the weighted sled loose and was out of the competition depending on Aloaks pull.
I would stand at the finish line and call Aloak to "COME' and then he would start his pull.
After I called him, he bent down and with all his strength tried to break the sled loose from the snows icy grip.
Finally with all his determination, the sled started to move!
Slowly he made his way to the finish line.
Due the number of pulls through the contest the painted finish line was wiped out, so before the last pull a new finish line was painted on the snow.
Aloak, who was partially bind at this time due to cataracts, realized something was different and stopped at the finish line to investigate the change and thus stopped his pull before he crossed the line.
This meant if he was going to win the competition, he had restart his pull from that point and cross the line.
I bent down in front of him and quietly called his name and said " Aloak come."
He bent down again, with great determination, broke the sled loose for the second time and crossed the finish line.
His supporter were ecstatic and especially when I announced that was his last pull as he was going into retirement.
Aloak made an impact on me and what I looked for in all the great sled dogs the followed him.
LOYALTY, DESIRE TO PLEASE and that DONT GIVE UP ATTITUDE!
ALOAK had a great impact on my life and my philosophy of life!