With the race countdown underway, final dog physicals draw mushers to Iditarod headquarters

KNIK — Several Iditarod mushers and their teams stopped at Iditarod Headquarters on Knik-Goose Bay Road in Wasilla on Wednesday for a final dog checkup by race veterinarians. Each dog team is required to get a physical in the two weeks prior to the start. Though teams may use their own veterinarians, more than half are checked by the race’s veterinary team, according to Iditarod chief veterinarian Stuart Nelson.

“It’s really the conclusion of a lot of preparation,” Nelson said. “And preparation not just for the dogs, but for the mushers, for the veterinarians."

In addition to the physical, the Iditarod’s pre-race protocol also includes an electrocardiogram and blood tests, Nelson said.

Nelson said the veterinary team will be 50 people this year. First-timers must have a minimum of five years of veterinary practice experience. For those volunteers, the final vet check is an important Iditarod’s training program for their involvement in the race.

“All my rookies are here,” Nelson said.

Fifty two mushers and teams will begin racing this weekend. The Iditarod ceremonial start is Saturday morning in Anchorage. Racing starts for real Sunday in Willow.